It’s more than just alliteration; it’s a statement, a proclamation that Thursdays are when the weekend should really start. Kicking it off right is the key, and what better way than with a cocktail that not only takes the edge off, but tastes good too. A hard thing to disagree with, we know. Drink up, get down and go to sleep happy.

Ice cream, cookies and candied popcorn are tempting on their own, but sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top or, better yet, stir in crispy, salt-laden bacon and suddenly each mouthful is made all the more crave-worthy. Chocolate chip bacon cookies — check. Candied bacon ice cream — check. Bacon chocolates, peanut butter, banana and bacon cookies,  bacon, rum and caramel salted popcorn balls — check, check, check. These are merely a few delicious ideas plucked from the ever-growing world of sweet and salty concoctions made with bacon.

While the killer combination may have already achieved celebrity status  — bacon-infused desserts have been the rage for quite some time now — leave it to cocktail extraordinaires Alie and Georgia to anticipate pork belly's next, dangerously-addictive venture. With 3 parts smoky bourbon, 1 part dry vermouth and 1 part glorious bacon and brown sugar simple syrup, The Tipsy Pig takes bacon out for a drink, but does it subtly and seamlessly. Balance is the key to this unique cocktail, coming through even in its garnish — a single, sweet maraschino cherry, paired with a piece of candied bacon.

Bottoms up, folks.

Candied bacon, from Bacon Brown Sugar Simple Syrup, recipe follows, for garnish

In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the bacon, sugar and 1 cup water until lightly boiling. Strain the candied bacon and reserve. Set aside and let cool.

In a shaker filled with ice, add the bourbon, Bacon Brown Sugar Simple Syrup, vermouth and bitters and shake until well mixed. Place 1 large ice cube into 2 tumblers, pour the cocktail over the ice and garnish with a candied bacon piece and a maraschino cherry on a pick.