A perfect pairing

Lincoln 51 pairs its Latin-style pulled pork tostones with cilantro vodka. (WENDY MAEDA/GLOBE STAFF)

A lot of restaurants will take the time to recommend wine pairings with their entrees. Some even go so far as to list them together on the menu. But not many places go the extra step of crafting house-infused liquors specifically designed to go with particular dishes on the menu. 51 Lincoln does just that.

Eating and drinking our way through the Newton restaurant's three appetizer and shot pairings ($9 each) was an education in maximizing flavor efficiency. The prosciutto-wrapped whipped feta mousse with strawberry tequila was the best example. "First taste the liquor by itself," said the extraordinarily knowledgeable general manager Ryan Moses, "then take a little with the food to see how they compliment one another." How do they compliment one another? In a word, perfectly. The mousse, with a smoked strawberry sauce and a savory vinaigrette watercress with fresh strawberries, was mind-blowing enough on its own, but the strawberry-infused tequila made each bite explode with fruit.

The slow-roasted Latin-style pulled pork tostones with cilantro vodka revealed the restaurant's heavy South American influences. Infusing vodka with cilantro gave it a fresh, herby smell and a smooth sipping quality with little of straight vodka's abrasiveness. It reset the palate between every bite, and the garden flavor cut right through the spice of the crema Mexicana and the salt of the pork.

The scallop ceviche and plantain chips were served with a fresh and pulpy limoncello. "Now this is what summer sipping is all about," said our companion. The limoncello naturally complimented the citrus of the ceviche process, and both were gone in moments. "I love this place," she said. "This is my new favorite restaurant." Agreed.

51 Lincoln, 51 Lincoln St., Newton Highlands. 617-965-3100. 51lincolnnewton.com

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