Mai Tai

Forget the neon-hued versions served in souvenir cups; an authentic Mai Tai cocktail is balanced, boozy, and complex with roots in mid-century tiki culture, not a tropical slushie machine. This original 1940s version is bold and citrusy, with just the right amount of sweetness and nuttiness from real orgeat syrup. It's a proper drink, and ideal for slow sipping on a warm evening.

Ingredients for 1 cocktail:

2 oz aged rum (avoid spiced or white rums)

¾ oz fresh lime juice

½ oz dry orange curaçao

¼ oz orgeat syrup

¼ oz simple syrup (optional, depending on your rum and sweetness preference)

Crushed ice

Mint sprig and lime shell, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Add the rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat, and simple syrup (if using) to a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.

   
   

2. Strain into a low ball or double old-fashioned glass filled with crushed ice.

   
   

3. Slap a mint sprig between your palms to release its aroma and tuck it into the glass. Add a spent lime shell for a classic look.

   
   

4. Sip & Enjoy! No straw needed—drink it straight from the glass for the full aromatic experience.