1920s-Inspired Cocktails

Step back in time to the roaring 1920s, an era of glamour, prohibition, and extravagant parties. One way to capture the spirit of this remarkable era at your next soiree is by serving the iconic cocktails that defined the time. From classic favorites to lesser-known gems, here are some 1920s-inspired cocktails that will transport you to the era of speakeasies and flappers:

The Sidecar:

The Sidecar is a timeless cocktail that gained popularity in the 1920s. Its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess makes it a delightful choice. To make this classic cocktail, you'll need:
- 2 oz Cognac
- 1 oz Cointreau
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.

The Bee's Knees:

The Bee's Knees is a refreshing and citrusy cocktail that masks the flavor of inferior spirits, making it a popular choice during the Prohibition era. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 oz Gin
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 3/4 oz Honey Syrup (1:1 honey and water)
Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a lemon twist or a fresh sprig of thyme.

The French 75:

A sparkling and effervescent cocktail, the French 75 combines the elegance of Champagne with the boldness of gin. Here's how to make it:
- 1 1/2 oz Gin
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
- 2 oz Champagne or sparkling wine
Shake gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, strain into a chilled Champagne flute, and top with Champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Southside:

Originating from the South Side of Chicago, the Southside cocktail is a refreshing and minty concoction. To create this classic drink, you'll need:
- 2 oz Gin
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- 5-6 Fresh Mint Leaves
Muddle the mint leaves with the lemon juice and simple syrup in a shaker. Add gin and ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

The Mary Pickford:

Named after the famous actress, the Mary Pickford cocktail is a sweet and fruity delight that showcases the flavors of rum and pineapple. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 oz Light Rum
- 1 oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
- 1/4 oz Grenadine
- 1/4 oz Maraschino Liqueur
Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Whether you're hosting a themed party at the Iroquois Club or simply want to indulge in the charm of the past, these cocktails will transport you back to the glamorous era of the roaring 1920s. Cheers to the Jazz Age!