The Roaring Twenties were a time of opulence, jazz, and illicit revelry. Speakeasies emerged as the go-to spots for those seeking a good time and a drink during Prohibition. These secretive bars concealed their entrances, often disguising themselves as ordinary establishments. Patrons needed to know the password to gain entry, making them exclusive hotspots.
The drinks at speakeasies were often crafted with homemade liquor, bartenders having to think creatively about ingredients.
The result was a series of delectable cocktails that still delight today. As people seek to recapture the glamour of the Prohibition era, speakeasy-inspired cocktails have seen a resurgence in popularity.
Bartenders are drawing inspiration from the past to create innovative drinks that pay homage to the speakeasy era. In this post, we’ll delve into some of the best speakeasy cocktail recipes you can recreate at home.
We’ll explore the history and ingredients behind classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Martini, as well as lesser-known gems like the Bee’s Knees and Southside.
So, don your finest flapper dress or pinstripe suit, and let’s travel back to the Prohibition era to indulge in some sumptuous speakeasy cocktails.
Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a timeless classic that whiskey enthusiasts can’t help but fall in love with. Its harmonious blend of bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice creates a delightfully smooth taste experience. The drink’s rich history dates back to the 1870s when it was born at the esteemed Manhattan Club in New York City. What’s more, this iconic cocktail is surprisingly easy to craft, requiring only a handful of straightforward ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated sipper to share with friends or an impressive addition to your next soiree, the Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is sure to please.
The Mary Pickford Cocktail
The Mary Pickford Cocktail is a timeless gem that embodies the essence of the Roaring Twenties. This elegant and alluring drink pays tribute to the iconic actress, boasting a harmonious blend of white rum, grenadine, pineapple juice, and maraschino liqueur. As a perfect representation of the era’s sophisticated speakeasies, this cocktail masterfully balances sweet and tart notes, guaranteeing a delightful experience for even the most discerning palates.
Aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious, the Mary Pickford Cocktail is adorned with pineapple fronds and/or a cherry, making it an impressive addition to any drink menu. Whether you’re a connoisseur of vintage cocktails or simply seeking a new favorite, this classic concoction is sure to captivate your senses.
Pear and Ginger Sparklers
What better way to toast the New Year than with the Pear and Ginger Sparklers, a sophisticated cocktail that’s sure to impress? This show-stopping drink combines the sweet and sour flavors of a homemade pear ginger shrub with vodka, lemon juice, honey, and champagne. The shrub itself is a masterclass in flavor balancing, featuring pears, honey, apple cider vinegar, and grated ginger – the perfect blend of sweet and spicy that will leave your taste buds tingling.
When you add in the brightness of the lemon, the booziness of the vodka, and the crisp effervescence of the champagne, you’ve got a cocktail that’s equal parts complex and delicious. Whether you’re ringing in the New Year at a classy NYE party or enjoying a romantic date night, the Pear and Ginger Sparklers are sure to be the star of the show.
Classic Manhattan Cocktail
For over a century, the Classic Manhattan Cocktail has remained a beloved staple in the world of mixology. Its enduring popularity stems from the harmonious union of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Grand Marnier, and bitters, which collectively produce a richly complex flavor profile. A defining characteristic of this iconic cocktail is its higher ratio of sweet vermouth to rye whiskey, complemented by subtle notes of Curaçao and Boker’s bitters, served chilled with a lemon twist garnish.
This vintage-inspired formula showcases an earlier era of mixology, characterized by understated yet refined flavor combinations. As such, the Classic Manhattan Cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates classic cocktails and yearns to experience the glamour of the Prohibition era’s iconic speakeasies. To transport yourself back in time to the Roaring Twenties, give this timeless cocktail a try and rediscover its enduring charm.
Aviation Cocktail
Indulge in the timeless charm of the Aviation Cocktail, a sophisticated speakeasy classic that’s sure to transport you to new heights. With its captivating violet hue and subtle boozy cherry finish, this smooth and flowery concoction is a masterclass in contrasts. At its heart lies Luxardo maraschino liqueur, lending an air of sophistication to the mix.
Perfect for those seeking adventure and excitement behind the bar, the Aviation Cocktail’s one-of-a-kind taste is poised to delight even the most discerning palates. So why wait? Take a sip and let your spirits soar!
Juliet and Romeo
Inspired by the classic Shakespearean tale, the ‘Juliet and Romeo’ cocktail is a masterclass in creativity, combining fresh lime, cucumber, mint, and concentrated rose water with Esmé gin’s subtle notes of cucumber and rose petal. This unique blend results in a refreshing and delectable drink that’s perfect for a speakeasy-style gathering or a sophisticated soiree.
The addition of a sprig of mint and a few drops of bitters elevates the flavors, making this cocktail both visually stunning and aromatically enticing. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with an extraordinary beverage or simply want to treat yourself to something special, the ‘Juliet and Romeo’ is sure to delight.
Clover Club Cocktail
The Clover Club Cocktail is a timeless classic that has endured since the pre-prohibition era. Hailing from a Philadelphia men’s club, this cocktail boasts an unmistakable texture and smooth finish courtesy of its signature ingredient: egg white. While some may be apprehensive about using raw egg, when handled correctly, it proves to be a safe and delectable addition. For those seeking to explore the realm of speakeasy-style cocktails, the Clover Club is an absolute must-try.
Its rich history and distinctive flavor profile set it apart from other libations, making it an attractive choice for any cocktail aficionado. Consider giving it a go and discovering the allure of the Clover Club Cocktail firsthand.
The Revolver Cocktail
A staple in the world of mixology, the Revolver Cocktail is a bold and unique blend of bourbon and coffee liqueur that has captured the hearts of bartenders and cocktail connoisseurs alike. The addition of a flamed orange peel serves as a mesmerizing touch, elevating the drink to new heights and making it a go-to choice for those seeking a classic yet exciting libation.
Sidecar
For nearly a century, the Sidecar has been delighting cocktail connoisseurs with its unique blend of cognac, Cointreau, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Though its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, this timeless classic remains a staple of any respectable bar. The beauty of the Sidecar lies in its versatility – proportions can be tweaked to suit individual tastes, yet the end result is always a harmonious balance of smooth, velvety texture and zesty citrus notes.
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated sipper or a refreshing pick-me-up, the Sidecar is sure to satisfy.
Orange Bourbon Smash
In the realm of mixology, the Orange Bourbon Smash stands out as a harmonious blend of bold and citrusy flavors. By marrying the robustness of bourbon with the tanginess of fresh mandarin, this cocktail creates a delightful balance that will appeal to those who crave strong, sour drinks over sweet ones. What’s more, its sugar-free composition makes it a healthier alternative among cocktails.
With minimal effort required to prepare, this Speakeasy-inspired drink is perfect for serving on crushed ice, which adds an extra layer of refreshment. If you’re seeking a simple yet delectable cocktail recipe that hits the spot, the Orange Bourbon Smash is an excellent choice.
Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail embodies elegance and refinement, with its rich history and timeless charm. This bourbon-based drink has stood the test of time, comprising only three ingredients: premium bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters, beautifully garnished with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry. The revival of this classic cocktail is undeniable, as it continues to gain popularity among those seeking a sophisticated beverage experience.
A well-crafted Manhattan relies on the quality of its bourbon and the sophistication of its maraschino cherries. With its bold flavors and subtle sweetness, this cocktail is ideal for those who appreciate a strong yet refined drink. For anyone looking for a timeless classic that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress, the Manhattan Cocktail is an absolute must-try.
The Black Manhattan Cocktail
For those seeking a refined fall cocktail, the Black Manhattan is an exemplary choice. This variation of the classic Manhattan boasts a unique twist: Averna amaro replaces sweet vermouth, imbuing the drink with a rich, bittersweet flavor. The inclusion of a secondary type of bitters further elevates the complexity of the concoction. Regardless of whether you prefer bourbon or rye as your base spirit, this sophisticated sipper is sure to impress.
As the seasons change and the nights grow cooler, the Black Manhattan makes for a perfect companion on a crisp evening. Its ease of preparation belies its refined demeanor, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a grown-up cocktail that’s equal parts approachable and impressive.
Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail
Transforming the classic Campari cocktail into a refined oasis, the Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail injects a vibrant splash of sweet-tart blood orange juice, harmoniously complementing the rich flavors of bourbon. While some may find Campari’s intense taste an acquired pleasure, the judicious addition of blood orange juice subtly tames its boldness, rendering it an inviting prospect for adventurous sippers.
This sophisticated concoction is best savored on cooler days, preferably while basking in the warmth of a crackling fire. For added flair, dare to ignite an orange rind and imbue your cocktail with an air of mystique. Ultimately, the Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail is a must-try for anyone seeking a richly flavored and elegantly crafted drink experience.
Bees Knees Cocktail
The Bees Knees Cocktail is an iconic Speakeasy drink that has earned its reputation as the epitome of cool. This refreshing concoction combines gin, honey syrup, and lemon juice to create a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. Its very name – ‘the bees’ knees’ – conveys excellence, and this cocktail delivers on that promise.
When you take a sip, you’ll appreciate the masterful balance of ingredients, which makes it an excellent choice for warm weather.
The simplicity of its preparation means you can easily recreate this gem at home. A classic coupe or martini glass serves as the perfect vessel, garnished with a lemon twist to complete the visual appeal.
Classic Sidecar Cocktail
The Classic Sidecar Cocktail is a masterclass in balance and complexity. This timeless drink has earned its place among the greatest sour cocktails of all time, boasting a harmonious blend of sweet and tart notes, with a subtle kick from the Cognac. The crisp dryness is offset by the richness of the drink, making it a true showstopper. The sugar rim, cleverly designed to temper the tartness, adds an extra layer of depth to this already captivating cocktail.
Whether you’re savoring it as a pre-dinner treat or sharing it with friends at a swanky speakeasy, the Classic Sidecar Cocktail is an absolute must-try for any discerning drink enthusiast.
Gin Rickey
For decades, the Gin Rickey has been a beloved cocktail staple. This revitalizing highball drink combines the crispness of gin with the zesty essence of fresh-squeezed lime juice and the effervescence of soda water. While simplicity is often the hallmark of great cocktails, the Gin Rickey’s harmonious balance of tangy and sweet flavors, courtesy of its gin and lime duo, is elevated by the delightful carbonation provided by the soda water.
Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating drink for a sweltering summer evening or a sophisticated cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Gin Rickey is an unmissable classic that will leave even the most discerning palates pleased.
Bees Knees
The Bees Knees cocktail has been reinvigorating its popularity as a timeless classic from the Prohibition era. This enchanting drink combines gin with a harmonious blend of lemon juice, orange juice, and honey simple syrup, striking an impeccable balance between sweet and sour notes. The inclusion of honey simple syrup injects a distinct layer of warmth into the cocktail, rendering it an ideal selection for those who favor their drinks on the sweeter side of the spectrum.
Typically served straight up in a martini glass, The Bees Knees is poised to elevate any evening with its refined and sophisticated charm. For those seeking a singular and scrumptious Speakeasy-style cocktail experience, the Bees Knees stands as an undeniable recommendation.
Manhattan and Old Fashioned
Two whiskey cocktails that have withstood the passage of time are the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned. While both share a timeless appeal, they differ in their presentation: the Manhattan is typically served in a stemmed glass garnished with Luxardo cherries, whereas the Old Fashioned is poured into a lowball glass and adorned with an orange peel. Interestingly, the Old Fashioned claims the distinction of being the oldest cocktail known to date back hundreds of years.
The enduring appeal of these classic cocktails has inspired bartenders and mixologists to experiment and innovate, resulting in numerous variations on the original recipes. Whether you prefer the smoothness of bourbon or the spicy kick of rye whiskey, the Manhattan and Old Fashioned are essential sips for any whiskey aficionado. For a taste of history and tradition, step into a speakeasy and order one of these iconic drinks.
Negroni
The Negroni’s complex flavor profile can be an acquired taste, with its subtle blend of bitter and sweet notes. At the heart of this cocktail lies Campari, whose distinctive flavor is balanced by the crispness of gin and the richness of sweet vermouth. The resulting taste experience is akin to a symphony of citrus and fruit notes, with a delightful harmony of sweet and sour that will leave you wanting more.
As an apéritif, the Negroni shines when served before dinner, pairing exquisitely with salty meats, cheeses, or any dish featuring bacon. If you’re a fan of bold, bitter flavors, then this cocktail is an absolute must-try. It may take a sip or two to adjust to its unique character, but once you’ve acquired the taste, you’ll find yourself savoring every moment of it.
Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a masterclass in contrasts, where sweet and smoky flavors harmonize to create an experience unlike any other. This sultry drink combines smoked cherries, muddled for added depth, with the subtle tang of Anastoga bitters and the warm comfort of campfire whiskey. The natural affinity between the whiskey’s warmth and the subtle smoke is elevated by the sweetness of seasonal cherries, resulting in a refined balance of flavors.
The smokiness, courtesy of the smoked cherries and simple syrup, adds an innovative twist to this classic cocktail, making it a must-try for anyone seeking something new yet familiar.
