A crisp, citrusy cocktail with just the right touch of sweetness and a hint of bitterness-that’s the Bars Park Slope. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood, this drink brings together classic flavors with a fresh, modern twist. It’s one of those cocktails that feels both familiar and exciting, perfect for sipping on a sunny patio or sharing at a weekend get-together.
Bars Park Slope
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: fresh lime juice makes all the difference. That bright, zesty flavor gives the whole drink a lift.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball glass or mason jar
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1 dash aromatic bitters
– Splash of sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Orange peel or lime slice, for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Shake well-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with a splash of sparkling water.
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a lime slice.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time for a colder, more refreshing drink.
– Always use freshly squeezed lime juice-it’s brighter and more flavorful than bottled.
– If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with just ¼ oz (7 ml) of simple syrup and adjust to taste.
– Don’t skip the bitters-they add depth and balance to the drink.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and bitters in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick shake with ice before serving, and top with sparkling water right before pouring to keep that fizz fresh.
Ingredient Swaps
– No gin? Try vodka for a smoother, more neutral flavor.
– Out of simple syrup? Use honey or agave nectar-just stir well to make sure it blends in.
– Want more flavor? Use a citrus-flavored sparkling water instead of plain.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but the base mixture (everything except the sparkling water) can be stored in the fridge for a day. Just shake and top with bubbles when you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Bars Park Slope pairs beautifully with:
Spicy Tacos
The lime and bitters cut through the heat and add a bright contrast.
Seafood Platters
The crisp, citrusy notes bring out the freshness of shrimp, oysters, and crab.
Charcuterie Boards
The drink’s light bitterness and citrus balance out rich cheeses and cured meats.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch-it’s easy to make and always impresses guests without being fussy.
Fun Twists
Summer Berry Slope
– Muddle a handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
Herbal Haven Slope
– Add a few fresh basil leaves and thin cucumber slices to the shaker. Muddle gently, then shake as usual.
Spicy Ginger Slope
– Replace the simple syrup with ginger syrup for a warm, spicy kick.
Virgin Bars Park Slope
– Skip the gin and double the sparkling water. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a little complexity and zing.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime juice really makes a difference in flavor. Go fresh if you can!
Can I make this for a crowd?
Yes! Multiply the base ingredients (gin, lime juice, syrup, bitters) and mix in a large pitcher. Keep chilled, and add sparkling water to each glass just before serving.
How can I make it look more festive?
Try garnishing with a sprig of rosemary, a slice of cucumber, or a skewer of berries for a fun, colorful touch.
When’s the best time to serve Bars Park Slope?
It’s perfect for warm evenings, brunches, or as a refreshing pre-dinner drink. Honestly, it’s hard to find a bad time.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
Simple-start with less syrup and add more if needed. Taste as you go until you find your sweet spot.
The Bars Park Slope is the kind of cocktail that feels special but is easy enough to whip up anytime. Play around with the ingredients, have fun with the garnishes, and make it your own. Cheers!
