Overview
The summer season is in full swing and with that comes a booming social calendar, which means one thing: ice-cool cocktails. We know it can be overwhelming with the number of mouthwatering drink options out there, so we've done you a favour and trialled these beverages for you. Now it's your turn — here are ten summer tipple recommendations to get you in the spirit this summer.
SOUL BAR & BISTRO - THE ROYAL GARDEN
Indulge yourself this summer at Auckland's hottest cocktail spot. Overlooking the stunning Viaduct Harbour, Soul Bar & Bistro offers a drinking experience not to be missed. The bar's new New York-esque cocktail menu is bursting with flavour and offers everything from fruity tipples to boozy wonders. The Royal Garden is soon to be your favourite summer drink, made up of rosemary-infused vodka, vanilla syrup, strawberry coulis and Prosecco. It's fruity, fizzy and simply fabulous.
TALULAH - TIKI PALS
Can't quite afford a trip to the Hawaii this summer? Never fear, Talulah is here. Offering a slice of paradise, the rooftop bar will have you feeling like you're on a tropical getaway in no time. Try the signature exotic Tiki Pals cocktails. The Mumbai Tiki should do the trick, made with mango-infused scotch, pineapple, lime, yoghurt and coconut bitters. If you're feeling daring, then opt for one of Talulah's zombies or the Jaguar Bowl which serves between 2-4 people — but remember to take it easy as these things pack a real punch.
THE PARASOL & SWING COMPANY - CRIMSON & CLOVER CLUB
Before the rise of the martini and subsequential arrival of the Pink Lady, the Clover Club was considered a manly drink. For some ridiculous reason the classic pink-hued cocktail then became untouchable for gents. Good news — it's made a comeback at the Viaduct's new rooftop bar, The Parasol & Swing Company, in time for summer. Their cool, crisp and all-inclusive version consists of Beefeater gin, Dolin vermouth, muddled raspberries, Earl Grey tea, pomegranate and egg white.
MR TOMS - FROSE
Our good old friends Mr Toms have brought their popular summer slushy back to the sunny side of Ponsonby, and we couldn't be happier. This fruity little number is the perfect combination of strawberry puree and our other old friend, rosé. It not only makes a pretty picture for Instagram but it will make you feel refreshed during the warmer months. The best part is that it's only $12. Pull up a pew in the outdoor area and get slurpin' on the good stuff.
HUAMI - ROYAL 75
Federal Street's newest opening, Huami, is touted as a "contemporary authentic Chinese restaurant", serving up a taste of old Shanghai. There are several notable hospo experts behind the opening, including chef celeb Nic Watt and master sommelier Cameron Douglas. An alternative to Douglas' "1930s Shanghai" wine list is the cocktail menu that boasts a unique Asian tilt. The Royal 75 is an elegant and refreshing Champagne cocktail combining lychee, gin and orange topped with Perrier-Joust Champagne.
MEXICO - FRIDA'S MARGARITAS
As well as serving jugs of guzzle-able sangria, restaurant brand Mexico has opened up margarita heaven, offering ten unique and classic flavours — you'll never get bored of this tequila-based cocktail. The blackberry and coconut brew is perfect for curing your weekend blues while the guava and mint will quench your thirst and refresh your palate. Although, the real winner is the mango and passionfruit concoction, which will be your fruity companion for the night. Just think there is one of these beauties for each day of the week and more, so make sure to get your fix.
COLEY & PUNCH - GREEN GREEN GRASS OF HOME
Located on Princes Wharf, Coley & Punch is the ideal spot to sink back a few cold ones. Heck, the bar even has its own dedicated gin and tonic menu to tick off as you watch the multi-million dollar super yachts float by. One extremely refreshing alternative is the Green Green Grass of Home. The concoction tastes like summer thanks to the combination of elderflower liqueur, Lighthouse gin, soda water and finished with cucumber and fresh mint and lime.
BEDFORD SODA & LIQUOR - HAWAIIAN TIME
This drink is delicious; not too sweet and perfect for a warm day. Just, look at it. The Hawaiian Time is what I'm told is the 'chick flick' of drinks — an ultra-feminine, fruity and floral masterpiece that gets its signature blue hue from blue Bacardi. I had to wait an extra ten minutes for mine to arrive because all the amazing globe glasses were in use, but the wait's worthwhile, even if it's just for the Insta post.
THE GLASS GOOSE - BEEKEEPERS BLOSSOM
This dreamy cocktail is just the right amount of buzz for a Friday afternoon, made from Aperol, gin, manuka honey, lemon, egg white and a dash of aromatic bitters, this summer drink is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Located at the base of the SkyTower and a view to die for, The Glass Goose is the perfect summer hangout. Now, if you've had one too many of these bad boys and you need a little pick me up then don't be shy to grab an espresso martini or two, you certainly won't be disappointed. Further thirst quenchers for a blistering hot day include the three-hour-churned Pinot Gris frosé and the frozen Prosecco.
CARETAKER - TRITTER RICKEY
This is one for those who need an escape from the afternoon sun. The dimly-lit New York-style cocktail bar can be found underground in Britomart's Roukai Lane. There is no menu as such — you let your server know exactly what flavours and spirits you prefer and they will create a custom-made cocktail specifically to your liking. For something especially refreshing, ask for the Tritter Rickey, a gin-based concoction fresh lime and mint and topped with soda.