Throwback to the ‘70s with Houlihan’s

Thank you to Houlihan’s for providing a gift card so that I could take a step back in a time machine and experience the 1970s …again 😉

Houlihan’s, is celebrating its 43rd birthday in style! The popular restaurant that first opened its doors back in 1972 will celebrate by throwing it back to the 70’s with two popular ‘70s classics: the Tequila Sunrise and sun bathing with a tri-fold reflector mirror in cheap sunglasses.  From April 6 through April 30, Houlihan’s will be saying, “Cheers!” to its loyal guests with the Shady Sunrise, a refreshing cocktail made with tequila, orange juice and grenadine and served with a giant pair of souvenir sunglasses.And oh yes, I got me both a cocktail AND the over sized sunglasses the other night ;)The specialty drink pays tribute to one of Houlihan’s first cocktails that rose to fame as an original menu item and was served with an accompanying pair of sunglasses. The Shady Sunrise will be available for a limited time at participating locations while supplies last. No need to wait until happy hour to join in on the celebration, the price for the Shady Sunrise is $4.72, all day every day.  (What a deal, it’s like 1970’s pricing too!)

Houlihan’s is also encouraging guests to join the birthday party on social media by sharing photos on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter with @houlihans and the hashtag #ShadySunrise.

“As a “child” of the 70’s, we found it fitting to toast our birthday with a riff on the tequila sunrise (bring your own mustache).  In addition to this fun throwback drink, we will also be featuring some of our original items on our Culinary Comeback menu. It doesn’t get more 70s than quiche, but in true Houlihan’s fashion it will be prepared with our high quality, fresh ingredients and made-to-order.”  — Jen Gulvik, SVP Marketing and Creative Director for Houlihan’s Restaurants, Inc

The Shady Sunrise is joining other Culinary Comebacks featured on the Houlihan’s menu for a limited time, including an original menu item the Quiche Lorraine made in Houlihan’s scratch kitchen with bacon, thyme, caramelized onions and Swiss cheese.

I too am a child of the 70’s (just one year younger than Houlihan’s!), and I remember how quiche was a pretty big deal back in the day 🙂  I wasn’t disappointed with my serving of Quiche Lorraine at Houlihan’s and made sure to share it on social media with the hashtag #SoEatingThis and tagging @houlihans to help move this item back to the everyday menu.

Along with the Quiche Lorraine and Shady Sunrise other items on the Culinary Comeback Menu include:

• BBQ SALMON SALAD
• ACHIOTE GRILLED SHRIMP TACOS
• CARAMEL NUT CRUNCH PIE
• STRAWBERRY BASIL LEMONADE
• GRAPEFRUIT JALAPEÑO COCKTAIL

Quiche and Culinary Comebacks available at select Houlihan’s locations. See Houlihans.com for specific menu information.

Which Culinary Comeback would you want to see return to Houlihan’s regular menu?

About Houlihan’s
Established in 1972, Houlihan’s has nearly 80 locations, primarily throughout the Midwest and the eastern United States. An American restaurant and bar that “feeds your lifestyle,” Houlihan’s menu features center-cut steaks, fresh seafood entrées, baked-to-order  flatbreads and artisan salads and sandwiches along with an interesting, everyday wine and cocktail selection.  Houlihan’s offers dishes in both small and large portions and is dedicated to developing menu options that address ever-evolving consumer lifestyles — be it meatless, gluten-sensitive, organic, or smaller portioned items. The restaurants feature design-forward finishes and architectural elements and a custom, curated playlist that changes monthly; many locations feature display kitchens, original artwork, and patios designed for social lounging.