Make it Virginia-Made: Eurasia
Welcome to the “Make it Virginia-Made” series, where we travel across the commonwealth to visit restaurants serving up Virginia spirits. These top-notch establishments and bartenders have a commitment to quality, local brands, understanding any cocktail — from fruity to sour to spirit-forward — can be Virginia-made. And it not only can be Virginia-made, it can be better Virginia-made.
You may have seen our lively host Henry Hill, Jr., a.k.a. the winner of The 2024 Virginia Cocktail Games, sitting down with a local bartender on our @VaSpirits Instagram. Here, we’re giving you the full download on what you saw and didn’t see during the visit. You’re about to learn about what makes this restaurant so special – so, get comfy and grab a drink – or better yet, head over to Eurasia and sip for yourself.
Get to Know Eurasia
Since opening in 2007, Eurasia has built a loyal following in Virginia Beach by striking the perfect balance between neighborhood comfort and chef-driven creativity. Known for its lively happy hour and inventive small plates, Eurasia has a way of taking familiar dishes and giving them an unexpected twist, using unique ingredients and techniques that keep guests coming back for more.
Eurasia has fully embraced the small-plate dining experience, encouraging guests to share and explore a variety of flavors in one meal. Whether it’s locally sourced seafood with global accents or seasonal creations from their powerhouse chefs, the menu is designed for social dining — perfect for groups who want to try a little bit of everything. A sommelier-crafted wine list and the most exclusive bourbon collection at the beach round out the experience, complemented by cocktails that often feature Virginia-made spirits, tying their innovative menu to the region’s growing craft beverage scene.
From its chic coastal-inspired interior to its focus on fresh, local ingredients and global creativity, Eurasia continues to be one of Virginia Beach’s trendiest and most trusted dining destinations. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just catching up with friends over small plates and local-spirit cocktails, Eurasia delivers a memorable experience every time.
Who’s Behind the Bar
James Orlanda made his way onto the bar scene seven years ago and never looked back. At Eurasia, he loves the creativity of crafting a good cocktail that everyone can enjoy.
His go-to order at the restaurant is the killer steak and eggs. Keep scrolling to find out what he’ll make for you at the bar.
How do you keep up with mixology trends?
“Social media is a huge part of it — you can’t go without it, especially if you’re in the industry. It’s really cool because you’ll find so many different ideas. But it also makes it harder to be unique, because everybody’s creating something really cool and really different. That’s when the creative artist aspect comes in, though, because then you have to make it your own way, your own flavor. Apply it to the people that are in your area; use local ingredients and local experience to make drinks that resonate with people here.”
What makes mixing with local ingredients unique?
“It’s awesome because you’re giving back to the community. Virginia Beach, even though it’s a big tourist town, is very local. People who are here love being from Virginia Beach, so it’s cool when you’re able to use local spirits in a different way, instead of just making basic drinks like vodka sodas.”
What’s in Your Glass
Next time you’re at the beach, have James whip up this refreshing summer breeze of a cocktail. The Mad Botanist has everything you could want.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Waterman Spirits Strawberry Vodka
- 1/2 oz. St. Germain
- 1/2 oz. Genepi
- 1 oz. lime juice
- 3/4 oz. hot honey syrup
- 2 drops saline
- Muddled cucumber and mint
- Garnish: thinly-sliced cucumber and a strawberry slice
Preparation
It all starts by gently muddling crisp cucumber slices and fresh mint leaves — just enough to release their cool, green aromatics without turning them bitter. Lime juice, Waterman Spirits Strawberry Vodka, floral St. Germain and herbal Génépi join the mix, balanced by a house-made hot honey syrup for a sweet, spicy kick and a touch of saline to make the flavors pop.
After a brisk shake over ice, the drink is strained into a Collins glass lined with elegant cucumber ribbons and finished with a juicy strawberry slice on top. The result? A cocktail that’s light, bright and layered — cool and refreshing up front and ending with a subtle warmth that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Sounds (and sips) like the makings of a great night. Please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.