The classic Mai Tai cocktail is unforgettable, an icy rum and fresh lime juice drink with a subtle hint of oranges and almonds. It can be garnished with and a sprig of fresh mint, or some lime, or even an orchid…

The Mai Tai may be Polynesian in name, but it has origins right here in the Bay Area. It originated in the East Bay in 1944. Our legendary restaurateur, the late Vic Bergeron of Trader Vic’s fame, came up with the idea for a cocktail with lasting appeal. And, it stuck!

Mai Tai Cocktail
Yields 1 cocktail

Ingredients
1 ounce amber rum
1 ounce dark rum
1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 ounce orgeat syrup
1/2 ounce of Cointreau
garnish with mint, a slice of lime, or an orchid

Directions
Pour all the liquid ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Shake to mix and strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.

Garnish with fresh mint, a lime, an orchid flower, or a combination of the three.