Witches’ Webs & Rooftop Views: Halloween Cocktails at Emerald Cocktail Kitchen

It’s a Halloween edition of The Fizz at Brown Carbonic! Shawn sits down with Michele Roesch, owner of Emerald Cocktail Kitchen on Syracuse’s historic Tip Hill, and mixologist Zariah McKee for a hands-on cocktail session and a walk through Emerald’s roots.

Michele shares the family story behind Emerald Cocktail Kitchen—how her dad’s bar, George O’Dea’s, inspired a full building revamp into a four-level destination with one of the best rooftop views of the city. You’ll hear about reusing vintage bar elements, uncovering surprises hidden in the old walls, and a quick neighborhood history lesson on Tip Hill’s famous upside-down stoplight (and the “stone throwers” who made it happen).

Then it’s shaker time. Zariah and Michele craft three Halloween specials:

• 🕸️ Witch’s Web – Candy corn–infused vodka, Brown Carbonic orange juice, cinnamon simple, and cream
• 💀 Beetlejuice – Vodka, Chambord, sour apple, lime, and simple syrup
• ✨ Emerald’s Potion – Jack Fire, ginger brandy, triple sec, apple cider, cinnamon simple, ginger beer, and a Malbec float

Expect dry ice fog (with smart safety tips), party-size pours, and plenty of inspiration for your next spooky soirée. Michele also teases Emerald Cocktail Kitchen’s Spooky Movie Sundays, Bills tailgates, and private event spaces—each with its own unique personality, including the cozy “kitchen table.”

If you love local hospitality, creative cocktails, and Syracuse stories, this one’s a treat. Cheers! 🎃🥂