Sunshine, our host and award-winning amateur mixologist, shares his recipes for the cocktails featured on Zen Tiki Lounge podcast. These drinks are delicious and the recipes are updated over time. They range from simple, to complex are often stronger than they appear.
Try some out and share your thoughts in the comments. We'd love to hear what you think!
After long days and grueling nights of pushing cookies on the throngs of shoppers at the local grocery store, this is what moms across America should be drinking when they finally get home. Finally a cocktail that really does taste like a Samoa cookie, not too sweet and just boozy enough.
Read MoreWe all dream of a tropical destination that isn't on any map and no one remembers how they got there. You may try to recall the exact longitude and latitude but this was a once in a lifetime trip. Memories are your only take back. Except for the quintessential island libation you were greeted with. Go back to the warm sandy shores and pristine waters with the Forbidden Atoll drink in your hand. Mildly sweet coconut and pineapple juices shaken with three rums and a hint of the elixir that only the green fairy could capture.
Read MoreThe Sea Slug comes to us from the shores of Brazil. Although no one has seen this elusive creature in over 40 years, it is said that drinking this beverage in its honor can cure illness and improve sexual stamina. We just like the refreshing creamy texture and sweet and sour combination of tropical juice and South American Cachaca. Enjoy the Sea Slug on the beach or in your favorite dark corner.
Read MoreWe are often asked for simple cocktail recipes. The non mixologists out there generally want a great tasting libation with just 3 to 5 ingredients. Xmas Helper fits that bill perfectly without sacrificing flavor and alcohol content. Pomegranate, two rums and a little lime zest create a sweet and balanced drink you will enjoy over and over. Add the optional ingredients to make it more complicated or keep it simple.
Read MoreIts Halloween time in the Zen Tiki Lounge. In honor of our favorite holiday we bring you two new libations perfect for your darkest of evenings or gloomy afternoons. The Black Sapphire Martini and the Voodoo Kiss each provide a unique sipping experience that will evoke notions of spirits and spooks as long as you care to enjoy. Cheers and Mahalo!
Read MoreOne of the most memorable periods in cocktail culture is the mid century modern era of imbibing. Times were simpler and so were the drinks. Vodka, whiskey, gin and bourbon were on everyones bar cart and the standard mixers were sour mix, soda and sugar. Throw in tonic for good measure and you have the classic 1960's home bar. What did everyone drink? Here are four examples of the most popular cocktails of the time.
Read MoreTake a trip to French Martinique with A Rhum In France. Several French Rhums are mixed with fresh juices and a little spice for a cocktail that pleases many. Try this one while watching foreign films or having a French inspired meal. Heck, find a shady spot in your backyard and sip away.
Read MoreChampagne is often the go to libation for a celebration. Champagne cocktails are perhaps worth celebrating on their own. Our little toast maker is keen on a mildly dry champagne mixed with blackberry liquor and hazelnut. Garnished with fresh berries and edible flowers for a cheers worthy clinky clinky.
Read MoreThis cocktail alone is reason enough to add Honey Liquor and Pimm's No. 1 to your bar shelf. You will find both ingredients are fun to add to many other cocktails you know and love. Try them first in the Honey Badger. Get to your local booze barn and find Barenjager and Pimm's now!
Read MoreAlthough the music of the 80's was worth remembering, the cocktails weren't all that good. When Sex on the Beach and Blue Hawaiians were served at every club and bar, it was a dark dark time. Sunshine tried to make better versions of all three. Not by using fu fu organic juice or anything like that, but by slightly altering each recipe in favor of flavor over sugar and cheap booze.
Read MoreEvery tiki bar and home bar alike needs a good punch recipe. Punch can be served as a cocktail or in the giant fish bowl. We recommend this one made individually and served in a fancy glass with ample garnish and an umbrella. You will need to make some homemade falernum (or use BG Reynolds Trader Tiki) to bring out the true exotic flavor of this otherwise simple to prepare libation.
Read MoreInspired by the Pisco Sour, this somewhat tiki rendition is a little sweeter and has a hint of spice. The ZTL sour has become one of our house cocktails and makes frequent return visits to our bar glasses. Try our version or add your own touch to a classic.
Read MoreLocation, Location, Location. Fresh citrus is available in the winter months just about anywhere in the citrus growing regions of the world. I you are lucky enough to live in one or have access to a market with a good delivery schedule, mix this cocktail to turn any winter day into a sunny exposition
Read MoreAloha Amoré, romantic lounge music and a smile are all you need to get that special tiki someone in the mood for love or love making. Dark rums, fresh juices and a little passion fruit will get that lava flowing.
Read MoreIt is highly encourage you make your way through the list of classic American cocktails. Surely the Manhattan will be at the top of that list. However, if you like rum as much as we do...try this version of the American classic with a Rum twist. You may never go back to the original.
Read MoreLook! You need your own blend of favorite spirits just to call your own. Try starting with a few different rums, mixing them in a bottle and keep on hand for quick cocktails without the complexity of taking down half the bottles off your shelf. A rum blend works well in just about any drink that calls for more than one rum.
Read MoreMargarita lovers and haters are sure to enjoy this variation of the quintessential slushy cocktail. A blend of three rums and fresh juices bring forth an excellent warm weather treat that will keep your friends coming back for more. Serve along with fresh fruit and you have an afternoon tradition.
Read MoreWhen you make this punch correctly it will a a slightly yellow brown color, hence "Dirty Christmas Punch." The cinnamon and peppermint bring out hints of the holiday season without being overbearing. This is also a great drink to put in a crock pot on low and serve warm with whip cream.
Read MoreRefreshing, zesty and perfect for a day at the beach or after a long day at work. Fresh citrus, aged rum and amaretto are perfect together in this anytime drink. Mix this one in large batches, pour and top with ginger beer. You will keep your friends and family cool and tipsy with little work. Mahalo to the team at GroundWork for requesting this cocktail and supporting the ZTL podcast.
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