The Mai Tai is a classic tiki cocktail built on a base of aged and rhum agricole-style rums, balanced with lime, orange curacao, and orgeat (almond syrup). It is a member of the IBA's official list of contemporary classics and is known for its bright, nutty, citrus-forward profile served over crushed ice.
Ingredients
- 1 oz aged Jamaican rum
- 1 oz rhum agricole (Martinique) or aged rum
- 0.5 oz orange curacao
- 0.25 oz orgeat (almond) syrup
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake briefly until well chilled.
- Pour unstrained into a double old-fashioned glass, or strain over fresh crushed ice.
- Garnish and serve with a straw.
Glass: Double old-fashioned (rocks) glass · Garnish: Spent lime shell and a sprig of fresh mint
Bartender tip: Use fresh-squeezed lime juice and a quality orgeat; the almond syrup gives the Mai Tai its signature roundness, so do not skip it. Serve over crushed ice to keep it cold and properly balanced.
Shop this recipe at Sip City DC
- Angostura Premium Rum 750ml — buy online for same-day DC delivery
- Aged rum
- Orange liqueur & lime
Available for same-day delivery across Washington, DC on premium bottles, or in store at 1368 H Street NE. Must be 21+. Please drink responsibly.
Frequently asked questions
What rum should I buy for a Mai Tai?
A split base works best: an aged Jamaican rum for funk and depth, plus a rhum agricole or another aged rum for brightness. If you prefer one bottle, a good aged dark rum will do. Our staff at Sip City DC can point you to options in the store.
What can I substitute for orgeat or orange curacao?
Orgeat is an almond syrup and is hard to replace; it defines the drink, so it is worth buying or making. For the curacao, any quality orange liqueur (such as a dry triple sec) is a reasonable stand-in.
Do you carry the ingredients for a Mai Tai in DC?
Yes. Sip City DC stocks aged and agricole-style rums, orange liqueurs, and mixers. Check dcsipcity.com or visit the store, and our team can help you build the full kit.