Eastside Cocktail

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Modern gin classic combining muddled cucumber, fresh mint, and lime juice for a crisp finish.

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Recipe

120ml

London Dry Gin
60 ml
Lime Juice
30 ml
Simple syrup (1:1)
22.5 ml
Cucumber
3 slices
Mint Leaves
8 leaf
Cucumber
1 ribbon
Mint Sprigs
1 sprig

Instructions

5 minutes to make

Step

Chill coupe glass in freezer and prepare cucumber ribbon garnish using vegetable peeler. Roll ribbon and set aside.

Step

Place cucumber slices in cocktail shaker and muddle firmly to release juice and aroma.

Step

Add mint leaves and gently press with muddler – avoid over-muddling to prevent bitterness.

Step

Add gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.

Step

Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.

Step

Double strain through both Hawthorne and fine mesh strainer into chilled coupe glass.

Step

Garnish with cucumber ribbon and fresh mint sprig. Serve immediately.

Equipment

Shaker

Muddler

Fine Mesh Strainer

Jigger

Citrus peeler

Description

The Eastside cocktail is a contemporary classic that embodies the essence of a refreshing garden party in a glass. Created as a sophisticated twist on the traditional mojito, this gin-based cocktail showcases the beautiful harmony between botanical gin, crisp cucumber, aromatic mint, and zesty lime. The drink represents modern mixology’s emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and precise technique, making it a favorite among both bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate clean, herbaceous flavors.

Nutritional information

120ml

Calories

165

ABV

18.5 %

Alcohol

17.6 g

Carbs

12.8 g

Carbs from Sugar

11.2 g

Fat

0.1 g

Protein

0.3 g

Sodium

2 mg

Nutritional information is approximate and includes estimated 30% dilution from ice. Values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Tips & Notes

Use cucumber-forward gins like Hendrick's or Martin Miller's to enhance the drink's fresh character, though quality London Dry gin works excellently too.
Double-straining is crucial for achieving the cocktail's signature smooth texture - never skip this step as plant matter ruins the drinking experience.
Muddle mint very gently or simply clap leaves between hands before adding - over-muddling releases bitter compounds that will ruin the drink's delicate balance.
Adjust simple syrup between 15-22.5ml to taste preferences - the cocktail should be balanced, not sweet, with the lime providing necessary tartness.

Can I make this cocktail with vodka or tequila instead of gin?

Yes, both work well as substitutes. Blanco tequila creates a “Tequila Eastside” with interesting vegetal notes that complement the cucumber, while vodka makes a cleaner version, though you’ll lose the botanical complexity that makes gin ideal for this cocktail.

Why is my Eastside cocktail bitter?

Bitterness usually comes from over-muddling the mint leaves, which releases bitter compounds. Muddle cucumber firmly but treat mint very gently – just enough to release oils, not to break down the leaves completely.

How important is double-straining for this cocktail?

Double-straining is absolutely essential for the Eastside. The fine mesh strainer removes all mint and cucumber particles that would create an unpleasant texture and continue to release flavors, potentially making the drink bitter over time.

Can I prepare any components in advance?

You can prepare simple syrup in advance and store it refrigerated for up to one month. Cucumber ribbons can be cut a few hours ahead and stored in cold water. However, always muddle fresh ingredients and serve immediately for best results.