How was your St. Patty's Day?

I spent mine on South Broadway. We started out at the 404 (404 Broadway, 303-778-9605), which is where we kick off every St. Patrick's Day. From there, it was on to 3 Kings Tavern (60 S. Broadway, 303-777-7370), where 18 Wheeler was blistering through its metal-billy set to a mostly greaser crowd. From there, it was on to the Irish Rover a couple of doors down (54 S. Broadway, 303-282-4643), where bagpipers played a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace to a packed room.

The next day found us in need of a proper hangover cure, which is where we start our mailbag this week:

• Dear Buzz,

What do you recommend for a hangover?

Topher (via e-mail)

The Buzz responds: Topher, much like Van Halen, everyone has his own opinion of the winning formula. Most agree that the best way to stave off a hangover is staying hydrated when you're drinking. However, if you're pounding Manischewitz, no amount of water on Earth will help you. The hair of the dog is always a winner, but then you've taken a big step toward full-fledged alcoholism, and that's a résumé-buster. I like a subtle mix of water and spicy foods, and of those, Thai is usually a good bet. My current favorite place in town? Thai Flavor (1014 S. Peoria St.). Get the pad Thai as spicy as you can stand it.

• Dear Buzz,

Who makes the best martini in town?

Judy (via e-mail)

The Buzz responds: Well, that one's a loaded question. I've heard from multiple sources that Mrs. Buzz is among the top in this arena as far as the classic version, and she's certainly my favorite (if for no other reason than I'd like to not sleep on the couch tonight). But unless you've invited yourself to my house for happy hour, you'll have to take my word for it.

The Cruise Room (1600 17th St., 303-628-5400) bartenders are also widely considered among the best of the best in the classic category (the secret is in the proper amount of vermouth, which is to say very little).

There are some great variations on the theme available out there. Morton's (1710 Wynkoop St., 303-825-3353) just unveiled four new designer-tinis topped with what they call "heavenly foam" - a creamed concoction made up of egg whites, Grand Marnier, fruit purée, lime juice and sweet and sour. There's a Cosmo, the pineappley Palm Beacher, the tart Pomegranate, and a Marga-tini, which is my personal favorite (although I think they should make it with Patron instead of Cuervo - personal preference). They're $12 a pop; show up during happy hour and enjoy with a complimentary finger-size filet mignon sandwich (or three).

Another good change-up is the Ovaltini, a chocolatey-flavored trademark treat at Nine75. The $7 sipper is made with Absolut Vanilla, Dekuyper Crème de Cacao and cream and chocolate served in a glass rimmed with Ovaltine.

The Purple Martini's (8000 E Belleview Ave., 877-4VODKA-1) $9 Godfather Martini is arguably the manliest of the lot - Turi Vodka splashed with Dewar's.

And finally, there's the Pirate Socks and Dead Parrots at Mario's Double Daughters Salotto (1632 Market St., 303-623-3505), made with Bacardi Vanilla, Blue Curacao and pineapple and lime juice, which makes the list for its awesome name alone.