Poisons: Spicy cocktails

Kaffir lime and Thai chili martini at Pazo

Ingredients: Hangar One Kaffir Lime Vodka, coconut water, chili, lemongrass and peanut infusion and Massenez Gingembre garnished with a red chili pepper

Damage: $13.95; $5 when featured on rotating happy hour menu (available 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday)

Skinny: An entire college course could be devoted to exploring the enigma wrapped in a riddle that is Pazo's kaffir lime and Thai chili martini. It’s one of the most peculiar drinks in Baltimore, but not in a way that matches the rough around the edges oddballs who live here.

Rather, the martini starts white hot, filling your mouth with a smooth heat. The cooling coconut water quickly extinguishes the liquid flames. And then you think the drink’s fiery side is over...until the next sip. The heat lingers on your lips. If that sounds bizarre, it’s because it is. The drink deserves the phrase: It’s an experience. It’s too weird to classify as simply good or bad.—Jessica Novak