If you enjoy trying international drinks, you have to sample mamajuana, a traditional beverage in the Dominican Republic. It’s a bitter drink made by soaking leaves and bark in liquor and wine. At New York’s Mamajuana Cafe Queens, the beverage is not only the source of the restaurant’s name but a staple on their menu, and the Dominican restaurant shares the process of making mamajuana.

When you see a bottle of mamajuana, you might be surprised by the way it looks like mulch and tree trimmings soaking in liquid. However, these natural elements give it its unique flavor.

You can make mamajuana with anything from agave and clove leaves to star anise and even grape vines, along with twigs and roots. Each ingredient lends its essence to the beverage. The leaves and roots are placed in a bottle, and it’s ready for the second step of the process.

While you can experiment with the liquids used in the recipe, mamajuana usually is made with rum or gin, red wine, and a dab of honey. The honey is optional, and even the red wine can be omitted if you prefer a stronger beverage. However, this is not recommended, as mamajuana is quite potent. All you have to do is add the liquids to the bottle and wait for them to soften the leaves and twigs.

The longer mamajuana sits, the better it gets. Over time, the flavors from the ingredients meld into a smooth, light beverage. Let it cure for at least two weeks before cracking open a bottle and enjoying a drink.

Whether you’re looking for a place that serves excellent mamajuana and Latin food or a nightclub with dancing and live music, you’ll find it at Mamajuana Café Queens. They even offer catering and will host private events. While this Dominican restaurant embraces its heritage, it also has adopted Asian influences with sushi rolls infused with Latin flavors. Visit their website to check out their menu and call (718) 565-6454 to make a reservation. Follow them on Twitter to stay up to date with the restaurant and club.