Raise your glass at Oliver’s Twist and toast the coming of spring.

Because it pairs so well with a warm fireplace, red wine is a staple in Seattle. Let’s face it though, we are sick of fireplaces — and we need a reason to drink something fruity or kicky or just plain springy. It’s April and we are craving serious heat — the kind that originates from the sun, not a match.

There is a place in Greenwood where cocktails spring from behind a bar, go down smooth and invoke visions of blue sky and sunshine. One sip and you’ll want to kick off your over-worn boots and slip on some toe-peeping slides. Spring has definitely arrived at Oliver’s Twist on 70^th and Greenwood.

Embellished with an invitingly funky décor (think eccentric Aunt Flossie meets flea market trawler), Oliver’s Twist bids you to step in and peruse the menu. After a sexy cocktail and a sunny appetizer, you may just hear the ocean calling. Is it that empty martini glass? Put it next to your ear and check. Ocean waves? Hmmm…in that case, order another.

Try the Bullseye. This hip take on the mojito pairs the traditional recipe with tequila, and adds a ginger kick. Yumma-fun.

The French 75 effectively captures the vintage spirit of a classic 1940s cocktail. This gin drink has lemon, orange and a touch of rhubarb-tarragon syrup. It’s almost healthy.

According to our server, the Charlotte #1 was a gin drink that ended up on the cutting room floor. The menu now just has a Charlotte #2. With Makers Mark and peachy additions, Charlotte #2 smoothes out the bourbon and is so peachily refreshing, you expect little blossoms to be floating in your drink.

Oliver’s Twist wide varieties of appetizers are not just traditional bar fare. Try the stuffed dates with blue cheese and bacon. They are sweet and savory, delectable and delish. Then there are the brussels sprouts. That’s right – a vegetable known for making people frown is actually quite good. These are braised with bacon and maple-bourbon butter. OK, maybe the bacon takes the healthiness factor down a notch but, hey, if that’s the way to get adults to eat their veggies, we won’t complain.

With sexy cocktails and delicious appetizers, Oliver’s Twist provides the perfect setting to welcome the spring season – or at least, wait patiently until it arrives.