Waterfront
A herbal, bitter and bubbly cocktail ∙ Build ∙ 2 min ∙ 14.7% ABV ∙
The Waterfront is a highball of Fernet Branca, Branca Menta, lime juice, and ginger beer, poured over ice and stirred briefly.
Ingredients
1
Servings
Garnish
Instructions for 1 serving
- Pre-chill a glass
- Pour all ingredients into the ice-filled glass: Fernet Branca liqueur 60 mlBranca Menta liqueur 30 mlLime juice 15 mlGinger beer 75 ml
- Briefly stir
- Garnish with a lime wedge and a mint sprig
Tips
- Build over plenty of ice and stir only briefly, so the ginger beer keeps its fizz.
History
The Waterfront was created by bartender Damon Boelte for the opening menu of Prime Meats, a steakhouse and cocktail bar in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, in 2008. Boelte, known for his enthusiasm for Fernet-Branca, built the highball around two ounces of Fernet-Branca and an ounce of its minty sister liqueur Branca Menta, lengthened with lime juice and ginger beer, describing it as an especially bitter, medicinal take on a Dark 'n' Stormy.
It became known for carrying more Fernet-Branca than any other cocktail on the menu, and staff began warning customers about its intensity before serving it. Prime Meats has since closed, but the drink remains one of Boelte's best-known creations alongside his Fernet-and-Branca-Menta shot, the Hard Start, which also originated at the same bar.
FAQ
What is in a Waterfront cocktail?
Fernet Branca (60 ml), Branca Menta (30 ml), fresh lime juice (15 ml), and ginger beer (75 ml).
How strong is a Waterfront cocktail?
Moderately strong, at about 14.7% ABV. The two Branca liqueurs make up half the pour, but the ginger beer and ice stretch it into a highball rather than a sipper.
Is a Waterfront vegan?
Yes. It is vegan, vegetarian, and lactose-free: two Branca liqueurs, fresh lime juice, and ginger beer, with no animal-derived ingredients.
