Best Cocktail Recipes

In honor of New York Fashion Week, Royalton is offering a "fall collection" of drink specials (paired with amuse bouches) that are sure to make your fashionista giddy. 

For a true throwback, nothing can beat summer’s Southside, a drink that originated during Prohibition. According to cocktail folklore, this concoction was created by an Irish gang in gangster-ruled Chicago who were attempting to mask the bitter taste of bathtub gin with mint, a refreshing green garnish. Another tale insists it was created at Manhattan’s 21 Club, a preferred hot spot for the elite. It was such a hit among the city’s tastemakers that it became the preferred choice of country club-goers in the Hamptons during the steamy summer months. Today, you can still order this sought-after number at Manhattan’s PDT (Please Don’t Tell), an East Village speakeasy famous for its ultra posh crowd and cozy atmosphere. Nothing sets the mood at a classic joint quite like this classic favorite.

With its jewel tone hue and crisp, thirst-quenching taste featuring a medley of juicy raspberries and zesty mint, it’s no wonder both the ladies and gents are falling over the Karthago, which, like its namesake, is unique and unforgettable. It's wonderfully fruity and refreshing, and you may think this tantalizing number has no alcohol, but beware: it’s spiked and doesn’t mind giving a mean punch after several rounds. But rest assured, you won’t regret ordering one or three at Manhattan’s hot spot Center Bar, courtesy of Michael Lomonaco.

The Oasis cocktail, made in honor of the 2012 presidential election's swing states, is inspired by the notorious swing state Nevada. Try it at D.C. hot spot Artbar, at Art Smith's Art and Soul. 

Once while in Italy, I saw people snacking on platters of prosciutto and cantaloupe, and the memory inspired this drink years later. People clamor for it at the beginning of summer, but I like to wait until the cantaloupes are super sweet and juicy.