Cocktail Classics: The Mai Tai

Little surprise that Cafe Drake visitors are a thirsty lot; no matter how many drinks recipes we upload there is a neverending demand for more high-octane sippers. In the past we've strived to bring you some home-invented creations and reconstructions of more familiar cocktails, but now the day has come to return to simpler times, and Cafe Drake will be posting a series of classics everyone should be able to whip up for unexpected guests without consulting Mr Boston's!

FINALLY, bartenders are beginning to crack open their history books and expand their repertoires, bringing distinction and respect back to the noble profession. Your best bet for a nostalgic libation such as a perfect Singapore Sling (besides 9th Street's legendary hideaway Angel's Kiss) may still be a tatty old Midtown hotel bar, shaken by a white-haired expert in a clip-on bow tie, but times are changing and you too, as a host/ess, should be adept at much more than a gin and tonic.

Don't get too big for your high-waisted denim britches once you conquer the Mai Tai however - the new breed of mixologist is wowing us with infused sakes, rare sojus from Japan and Korea and homemade bitters. Baby steps for now . . . baby steps.

MAI TAI

It's best to actually measure these with a handy jigger, at least in the beginning until you really learn the proportions. Orgeat is an almond-flavored syrup found in every coffee shop and cafe across the country; if you have a hard time finding, just ask where they order or buy from. We find it on the shelves of gourmet grocery stores, Italian pastry shops and even the odd supermarket. Of course you can always order online - either way you WILL need it for this recipe. [Also good in coffee as mentioned and over ice cream etc]

1 ounce Dark Rum
1 oz Light Rum
1 oz Orange Curacao
2 oz Orange Juice
1/2 oz Lime Juice
Dash Orgeat
Dash Simple Bar Syrup

Mix all ingredients and pour over crushed or shaved ice in a glass.

This is one time you may garnish to your campy heart's delight with any combo of fresh fruit.