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10 Most Popular 1950s Cocktails to Drink

Transport yourself to a bygone era, where the clinking of cocktail glasses and the art of mixology took center stage. 

four different best 1950s cocktails

The 1950s, with their post-war exuberance and evolving tastes, witnessed a remarkable shift in the world of libations. 

This pivotal decade gave rise to an array of innovative concoctions crafted with precision and flair. It was an era defined by elegance, creativity, and a quest for the perfect balance of flavors. 

Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the fascinating world of 1950s cocktails, where timeless charm and spirited craftsmanship intertwine to create unforgettable drinking experiences.

Harvey Wallbanger

The iconic Harvey Wallbanger cocktail tantalizes the taste buds with its delightful combination of flavors. 

Harvey Wallbanger Cocktail

Crafted using a favorite vodka, Galliano liqueur, and vibrant orange juice, this drink offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and citrus tang. Adorned with a luscious Maraschino cherry and an orange slice, it is visually inviting. 

Sipping on a Harvey Wallbanger is a sheer pleasure, as the smooth vodka, herbal notes of Galliano, and zesty orange juice mingle together, creating a well-balanced and satisfying drink. 

It’s a classic choice for those seeking a flavorful, easygoing cocktail that exudes retro charm.

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Tom Collins

The timeless Tom Collins cocktail captivates with its refreshing simplicity. With a base of gin, this drink delivers a botanical backbone that harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of fresh lemon juice. 

Tom Collins Cocktail glass

The effervescence of club soda adds a delightful fizz, enhancing the drink’s liveliness. Together, these ingredients create a crisp, citrusy symphony, perfect for a sunny afternoon or a lively gathering. 

Raise a glass, let the Tom Collins transport you to a world of flavor, and savor every invigorating sip. Cheers to the classic allure of this beloved cocktail!

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Sloe Gin Fizz

Originating from the shores of England, the Sloe Gin Fizz cocktail has enchanted palates worldwide with its delightful flavors. 

Sloe Gin Fizz Cocktail

Crafted with sloe gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup, this libation boasts a perfect balance of sweet and tart. The addition of invigorating club soda creates a fizzy effervescence that uplifts the senses. 

Garnished with a vibrant lemon wedge and a tantalizing cherry, it is as visually appealing as it is delicious. 

Over time, Sloe Gin Fizz’s harmonious blend of flavors and refreshing nature garnered a devoted following, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a taste of classic elegance with a modern twist.

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Mint Julep

The Mint Julep cocktail, with its timeless appeal, is surprisingly simple to serve yet offers an exquisite drinking experience. 

Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe

Combining the rich warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of simple syrup, it creates a well-rounded flavor profile. 

Fragrant mint leaves lend a stimulating and aromatic touch, further enhancing the drink. Served over crushed ice and garnished with a sprig of mint, it exudes elegance.

The mint julep is a versatile cocktail that suits a variety of palates, making it an excellent choice for both bourbon enthusiasts and those exploring new drinks.

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Pink Squirrel

Indulge in the delightful Pink Squirrel cocktail, where creamy decadence meets subtle sweetness. 

Pink Squirrel Cocktail

The velvety texture of white crème de cacao offers a smooth, chocolatey note, while crème de Noyaux adds a hint of nutty sophistication. The rich and luscious heavy cream completes the trio, imparting a luxurious mouthfeel. 

When combined, these ingredients create a harmonious fusion of flavors, reminiscent of a dessert in a glass. Served chilled and garnished with grated nutmeg, it exudes elegance and sophistication. 

Perfect for special occasions or when you simply crave a touch of opulence, this pink cocktail is perfect for a 50s themed party.

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Singapore Sling

Immerse yourself in the exotic allure of the Singapore Sling cocktail, a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. 

Singapore Sling Cocktail

This vibrant drink combines the citrusy brightness of fresh-squeezed lime juice with the aromatic complexity of gin, Bénédictine, and Grand Marnier. Cherry liqueur adds a touch of sweetness, while pineapple juice contributes a tropical twist. 

Finished with a dash of bitters and topped with invigorating club soda, it offers a harmonious balance of tangy, herbal, and fruity notes. Garnished with a cherry and an orange slice, it’s a visual delight that matches its captivating taste.

Raise your glass and embark on a journey to the enchanting shores of Singapore with this timeless classic. Cheers to the vibrant flavors of the Singapore Sling!

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Sidecar

The Sidecar cocktail combines the rich and robust flavors of cognac with the vibrant sweetness of Triple Sec or Cointreau, balanced by the tanginess of lemon juice. 

Sidecar cocktail

The cognac brings depth and warmth, while the Triple Sec or Cointreau adds a citrusy brightness, and the lemon juice provides a refreshing zing.

The Sidecar is commonly served in a chilled cocktail glass, allowing you to appreciate its velvety texture and aromatic profile. 

With each sip, you’ll experience a harmonious marriage of flavors: the smoothness of the cognac, the subtle citrus notes, and the invigorating tang of lemon. It’s a sophisticated and satisfying drink that delights the senses.

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Pina Colada

The Piña Colada cocktail sets itself apart with its delightful combination of rum, creamy coconut, tropical pineapple juice, and a touch of lime. 

Pina Colada Cocktail

This unique blend of ingredients creates a luscious and stimulating taste that evokes the spirit of a sunny island getaway.

Served cold over ice, the Piña Colada offers a cool and invigorating experience. It’s a vacation in a glass, indulging your senses with a perfect balance of flavors.

Sip, unwind, and let the tropical flavors whisk you away to a state of pure vacation-inspired delight. Cheers to paradise in a glass!

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Sea Breeze

The Sea Breeze cocktail is a drink that combines the crispness of vodka with the tartness of bottled cranberry juice and the bright citrus notes of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. 

Sea Breeze cocktail

This invigorating blend creates a balanced and tangy flavor profile, perfect for quenching one’s thirst on a warm day. 

Served over ice and garnished with a lemon wheel, it offers a visually appealing and vibrant drinking experience. 

The Sea Breeze’s lively flavors, coupled with its easy preparation, make it a go-to choice for those seeking a revitalizing cocktail that effortlessly complements any occasion.

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Mai Tai

The Mai Tai cocktail is a tropical masterpiece that harmoniously blends the richness of aged rum and the distinctive character of Rhum Agricole. 

traditional mai tai cocktail recipe

Freshly squeezed lime juice lends a zesty brightness, while the orange curacao adds a vibrant citrus note.

The orgeat and simple syrup provide a subtle sweetness and depth, while the mint sprig garnish adds a stimulating aroma. 

With its captivating combination of flavors, the Mai Tai is the perfect escape to a sun-soaked paradise. Shake, strain, and sip your way to paradise with this enchanting concoction. 

Embrace the tropical vibes and let the Mai Tai transport you to a world of exotic bliss. Cheers!

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four different best 1950s cocktails

10 Best 1950s Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Discover our favorite recipe, sip on iconic 1950s cocktails!

Instructions

  1. Pick your favorite recipe
  2. Gather all the needed ingredients
  3. Prep a tasty cocktail in less than 5 minutes

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10 Most Popular 1950s Cocktails to Drink
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.

Written by Paul Kushner

I have always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. My restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time I turned 17 I was serving tables, and by 19 I was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, I opened my first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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