“I’m Not a Bartender” -Old Cuban

For New Years’ Eve 2020, I had an opportunity to go to Paris. I was meeting up with four college friends who were all flying into Europe at different times. The goal was for everyone to make it to Paris by 10 am on NYE. I had a few days to spare, so I extended my trip with a quick overnight stop in London before heading off to Paris the next morning. Anyone who knows me, can attest to my love of the Soho House. Being that I was in London, the city where this members-only club was created, I had to make a b-line to the original Greek St. House. It was evening when I finally made it out of my hotel, so trying to find the speakeasy-like entrance was nearly impossible. But I made it!

PHOTO CREDIT: SOHO HOUSE: GREEK ST; LONDON

PHOTO CREDIT: SOHO HOUSE- CIRCLE BAR

Once inside, I made my way upstairs to the iconic “Circle Bar.” It’s a quaint seating area that surrounds the bar area, with ceiling to floor windows overlooking a cobblestone lined restaurant directly below. Think…the place where Harry Potter would go for a drink once he becomes of age and turns into a hipster. You get the point. Well, I sat at the bar and grabbed a drink menu. I came across a rum based cocktail that was topped off with champagne. Clearly, this would be the answer! I placed my drink order for the “Old Cuban” cocktail and my life has not been the same ever since. If you love a strong refreshing cocktail, this is surely the way to go. So, today I’m going to show you how it’s done!

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 oz. Rum

3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice

1 oz. Simple Syrup

6 Mint Leaves

2 Dashes of Orange Bitters

2 oz. Champagne

Mint Leaf Garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

First, muddle the lime juice, syrup and mint leaves in a cocktail shaker. Next, add your rum, orange bitters, and ice and shake for about 15 seconds. Finally, strain your cocktail into a coupe glass, and top with the Champagne. You can add a mint leaf on top for garnish.