CARROLL GARDENS — It's a boozy taste of Italy — in a snow cone.
A Court Street restaurant is introducing a new line of summer treats called "Amaro Snow Cones" — or icy delicacies blended with Italian liqueur.
Marco Polo Ristorante, a 30-year-old Italian eatery at 345 Court St., started serving “adult snow cones” after owner Marco Chirico noticed the popular children's version being served in Manhattan, he said.
“It would be great if it had a bit of liquor in it,” he recalled thinking. “Every adult has a kid in them.”
The five flavors of snow cones — which include Campari Strega, Aperol Lemon, Amaretto Maraschino and Zucca Liquor — are made with a mixture of fresh fruit, herbs, bitters and Italian spirits. They look like the kids' version — a pile of shaved ice in a paper cone — but they pack an alcoholic punch.
For sweet tooths looking for a more American taste, the "Bourbon Tea" snow cone contains lemon, basil, honey, unsweetened iced tea and, of course, bourbon.
The cocktail-style cones, priced at $5, are served seven days a week from 4 to 7 p.m. in a cart outside the restaurant.
The treats will continue through the end of summer until about October, said Chirico, who hopes to resume the menu during the spring.