Mai Tai

• Caribbean aged rum15 ml
• White rum30 ml
• Spiced rum15 ml
• Orange curaçao liqueur15 ml
• Amaretto liqueur10 ml
• Pineapple purée20 ml
• Lime juice15 ml
• Lemon juice15 ml
• Orgeat (almond) syrup10 ml

Garnish

• Lime wedge
• Mint sprig
• Fruit skewer

Instructions for 1 serving

1. Pre-chill a glass
2. Shake all ingredients with ice, except the Caribbean aged rum 15 ml: White rum 30 ml · Spiced rum 15 ml · Orange curaçao liqueur 15 ml · Amaretto liqueur 10 ml · Pineapple purée 20 ml · Lime juice 15 ml · Lemon juice 15 ml · Orgeat (almond) syrup 10 ml
3. Pour into the glass filled 2/3 with ice
4. Add a little crushed ice
5. Add Caribbean aged rum to form a layer
6. Top off the glass with the crushed ice
7. Garnish with a lime wedge, a bouquet of a mint sprig and a fruit skewer

History

The Mai Tai’s sun-soaked origins are found in America’s Tiki bar heyday, where it became the star of beach parties and backyard escapes. Layered, tropical, and inviting, its name means ‘the best’ in Tahitian—and for many, it truly is. Every Mai Tai invites a mini holiday in a glass, blending playful nostalgia with real flavor.

About this recipe

The Mai Tai is the flagship tiki drink — aged rum, orange curaçao, orgeat, and lime, shaken and served over crushed ice. Trader Vic's original formula balances nutty, citrus, and rum depth in one glass.

FAQ

What rum for a Mai Tai?

A blend of aged Jamaican (funky) and Martinique rhum agricole is traditional. A good aged amber rum alone still works.

Can I skip orgeat?

Orgeat defines the Mai Tai's almond note. Substituting simple syrup makes a different drink entirely.