Classic Mai Tai Recipe

This classic Mai Tai recipe gets its signature fruity flavor from a combination of fresh lime juice, orange Curacao, Orgeat, and white rum. No pineapple or fresh orange juice! Served over pebble ice, it’s sure to deliver the island vibes.

If you’re into fruity, tropical cocktails, the Mai Tai might just be your new favorite!

This colorful mixed drink has a uniquely fragrant flavor thanks to almond syrup and orange liqueur paired with rum and lime juice. Topped with an (optional) shot of dark rum, it’s as beautiful as it is distinct.

It’s said to have roots in French Polynesia while also apparently being created in Oakland, California by Victor J. Bergeron.

Regardless of the origin story, I’m willing to guarantee that a sip of this bad boy will have you feeling cool and refreshed, and maybe even ready for your next tropical getaway.

More tropical cocktails you’re sure to love: the classic piña colada, mint mojito, and quick rum punch!

Ingredients

• white rum – I like using Jamaican or Puerto Rican rum
• orange Curacao
• Orgeat (almond syrup)
• lime juice
• pebble or crushed ice
• optional garnishes: dark rum, fresh mint, maraschino cherries, edible orchid, lime slice

Find the full ingredient list with exact quantities in the recipe card below.

How to Make a Mai Tai

Tip: Many Mai Tai recipes have other kinds of citrus in them like orange or even pineapple, but it’s traditional to only use lime juice and orange Curacao to give the cocktail it’s fruity flavor.

What to Serve Alongside

This cocktail goes great with just about any Polynesian food, grilled meats, fish, seafood, and bar snacks. Here are some ideas:

Let’s Talk Garnishes

It’s pretty common to see Mai Tais served with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lime. This is a simple but appropriate garnish that ties in with the flavors of the drink, while also giving a nice refreshing fragrance.

If you’d like to go the extra mile, here are some tips:

• Slapping your mint is a silly but effective way to release the fragrance in the fresh herb. Don’t skip this step!
• If you can get your hands on some edible orchids, this garnish really takes the presentation of this cocktail to the next level.
• A topper of dark rum is another fun way to go, as the dark rum adds complexity to the drink. Add this just before serving, over the top of the pebble ice.

Bar Tools

You’ll need some sort of jigger and cocktail shaker to make this drink.

I like this one, but honestly any kind of shaker will do the trick. Heck, you could even make it with a big mason jar and tight fitting lid. Use what you’ve got!

More Tropical Cocktails

Please remember to always drink responsibly,

Print