The Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail combining dark rum, triple sec, almond-flavored orgeat syrup, grenadine, and fresh lime juice for a balanced, aromatic drink. This iconic tiki cocktail is defined by its smooth rum base and rich almond notes.
Recipe Source
Visit Mr. Boston DrinksFrom Mr. Boston Drinks · by Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender's Guide
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Shake with ice and strain into large old-fashioned glass about 1/3 full with crushed ice.
Decorate with Maraschino cherry speared to wedge of preferably fresh pineapple.
For a hair raiser, top with a dash of 151 proof rum and for a real Hawaiian effect float an orchid on each drink.
Serve with straws.
cocktail shaker · jigger or measuring spoon · bar strainer · rocks glass or tiki mug
Dark or aged rum provides the best flavor; Old Mr. Boston Rum or similar quality brands work well. Some bartenders use a blend of light and dark rum for complexity.
Orgeat is essential to the Mai Tai's signature taste, but almond extract mixed with simple syrup can substitute in a pinch.
Shake vigorously with ice to chill and blend the ingredients, then strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
Serve in a rocks glass or tiki mug filled with crushed ice for the classic presentation.
Reduce grenadine or orgeat by half a tablespoon, or increase fresh lime juice slightly to balance and brighten the drink.
