A tropical cocktail that feels like a mini vacation in a glass—that’s the Royal Hawaiian. This refreshing drink blends gin, pineapple juice, and almond syrup for a smooth, slightly nutty flavor with just the right balance of sweet and tart. It’s a classic from the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Honolulu, capturing the essence of island hospitality. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it’s always a hit for warm evenings when I want something light, fruity, and a little fancy.
Royal Hawaiian
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice (fresh is best, but bottled works)
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) lemon juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) orgeat (almond) syrup
- Ice
- Pineapple wedge or cherry (for garnish)
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge or cherry.
Tips for the Best Royal Hawaiian
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink extra refreshing.
- Use fresh lemon juice—it makes a huge difference in brightness.
- Fine strain the cocktail if you want a smoother texture without pulp.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh, but you can pre-mix the gin, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup in a sealed container and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just shake with ice before serving.
Ways to Customize It
- Swap gin for light rum for a more classic tropical twist.
- Add a splash of prosecco for a bubbly version.
- Replace orgeat syrup with coconut cream for a creamier texture.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with fresh, tropical flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled chicken skewers – The smoky char balances the cocktail’s sweetness.
- Fresh fruit salad – Echoes the pineapple and citrus notes.
- Spicy prawn tacos – The sweetness of the drink cools down the heat.
Non-Alcoholic Version
For a Virgin Royal Hawaiian, mix pineapple and lemon juices with a splash of almond syrup. Serve over ice for a refreshing, tropical mocktail.
This cocktail always reminds me of breezy summer nights, and it’s one I keep coming back to. Whether you’re sipping it by the beach or just dreaming of one, it’s a drink that transports you with every sip.
