The Surf Room Mai Tai is a delightful variation of the classic Mai Tai cocktail that originated from the Surf Room at the Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki, circa 1940. This tropical and fruity cocktail has become a favorite among tiki enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados alike, thanks to its unique blend of flavors and ingredients.
A Fruity Twist on the Classic Mai Tai
While the Surf Room Mai Tai is not the original Trader Vic’s Mai Tai recipe, it offers a nicely balanced version of the fruity Mai Tai that gained popularity in Kauai. The addition of orange juice, unsweetened pineapple juice, and fresh lemon juice sets this variation apart from the traditional recipe, creating a refreshing and tropical taste profile that transports you to a paradise getaway.
Ingredients for the Perfect Surf Room Mai Tai
To create the perfect Surf Room Mai Tai, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1 oz unsweetened pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz orgeat syrup
- 1/2 oz sugar syrup
- 1/2 oz orange curaçao
- 1 oz Demerara rum
- 1 oz dark Jamaican rum
- 1 oz light Puerto Rican rum
Crafting the Surf Room Mai Tai
To make the Surf Room Mai Tai, combine all the ingredients in a shaker with crushed ice. Shake well to ensure that all the flavors are properly mixed and chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled double old-fashioned glass and garnish generously with pineapple, sugar cane, orchid, and a mint sprig. The result is a visually stunning and deliciously refreshing tiki drink that is sure to impress.
A Tropical Escape in a Glass
The Surf Room Mai Tai is more than just a cocktail; it’s an experience that transports you to a tropical paradise with every sip. The combination of three different rums, along with the lime, orgeat, sugar syrup, and Curacao found in the Trader Vic’s recipe, creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is enhanced by the addition of fruit juices. This variation offers a unique twist on the traditional Mai Tai, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore the world of tiki drinks.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a tropical escape, mix up a Surf Room Mai Tai and let your taste buds take you on a journey to the beautiful shores of Hawaii. With its fruity flavors, refreshing taste, and visual appeal, this tiki drink is sure to become a favorite in your cocktail repertoire.
