Summer has always been sugary-sweet at Susie's Bakery & Coffee Bar in Southdale Plaza but, in 2008, owner-manager Amanda Hanna decided to spice things up when she opened The Terrace, an outdoor café addition to the cosy bakery.

"Everything in this bar is New York," she says. "The flavours are all natural and the vibe can only be described as Euro-Mediterranean." Mojito Madness Mondays (where mojitos by the pitcher can serve 13 thirsty patrons) is what they're known for but this July they have gone wild on Tijuana Thursdays to "make it hot, cheap and dirty", with two-for-one specials and tequila body shots off hotties Kat Marzouca and Rebecca Srour. Ay-ya-yi!

Midweek is date night, the place to watch the sun set over Kingston over dinner before taking in a movie. Or stay for the live band, free, while you indulge in Susie's Round the World coffees. Most fancy cocktails are well under $500 before discount. And you get the best, nothing watered down, no preservatives, just the way you like it. So don't be afraid to be picky.

"It's a mini-vacation," says Hanna. "If you can't travel this year, this is your best bet."

Three-tiered Virgin Daiquiri

Ingredients

Mango, guava and strawberry daiquiri mix or use fresh fruit.

Method

Blend ingredients separately with ice and pour in layers for a funky look. This drink captures the refreshing feeling of being outdoors at The Terrace.

The Bellini.

Bellini

Ingredients

Lilyfield Peach Schnapps

Sparkling Champagne<