The Travelling Cocktail Drinker: The Best Bars in Jamaica
Jump to
- Floyds Pelican Bar
- Bamboo Blu, Mammee Bay
- Oceans on the Ridge, Ocho Rios
- Bottles and Chimney Bar, Ocho Rios
- Hiddin Hut Bar and Grill, Old Harbour
Recognised by many as the most laid-back country in the world, dreams of Jamaica often involve sun, sea,
sand, and maybe Bob Marley? Of course, what would that tropical paradise be
without a cocktail or two? Expect rum in all its various forms and enjoy while
lounging beneath a palm tree outside one of these beautiful bars.
Floyds Pelican Bar
You’ve no chance of just wandering over to Floyds for a quick drink before dinner – getting to this bar requires a mile-long journey by boat, since it sits on its own mini island just off the coast. The trip is definitely worth the effort, however, since a visit to this bar is an experience of its own. You can swim or snorkel around the bar, enjoy the Catch of the Day and relax in the sun, all the while enjoying a delicious rum punch!
Highball glass
Microbadges
<p>Rum Punch is a vibrant and tropical cocktail that traditionally encapsulates the spirit of Caribbean festivities. The classic cocktail balances the sharpness of fresh lime juice with the sweetness of sugar syrup, while the overproof rum provides a robust and warming backbone to the drink.</p><p>A touch of Angostura bitters adds a complexity of flavor, introducing a subtle, herbal undertone which complements the overall sweetness of the punch. Typically served in a highball glass, Rum Punch is often garnished with elements like a pineapple wedge, leaf, and a cherry, giving it an attractive and festive look that beckons the laid-back vibe of a tropical getaway.</p>
Ingredients
Method
How to make a Rum Punch
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- Pour all ingredients, along with 85ml (two-thirds of a cup) of water into a shaker with ice
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- Shake well then strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with a pineapple wedge, a pineapple leaf and a cherry, and serve
Bamboo Blu, Mammee Bay
With its own private beach reserved for restaurant guests only, Bamboo Blu offers reasonably priced cocktails, great food and a fun, vibrant atmosphere. Head there at midnight to
enjoy the evening campfire or relax in the day and enjoy the live reggae music.
We recommend the Big Bamboo Chalice – a cocktail made with rum, triple sec and
fruit juice, served in a large chalice cup that you get to keep!
Oceans on the Ridge, Ocho Rios
The extensive cocktail list at Oceans on the Ridge is sure to impress the thirsty traveler, as is the
delicious food. This bar is popular stop for cruises and also makes for a wonderful
wedding location, thanks to the incredible views over the port and city.
Serving lots of forgotten classics, the star of this bar has to be the
Chocolate Sundae, made up of vanilla vodka and milk – don’t drink too much or
it will curdle in your stomach!
Bottles and Chimney Bar, Ocho Rios
This relaxing, intimate bar and restaurant is a favourite with locals and tourists alike, due to the tasty food and fun cocktails. The Blue Lagoon might be a bit of a cheesy choice, but it seemed perfectly matched with the laid-back musical vibes and hot, sunny surroundings.
Highball glass
Microbadges
<p>The Blue Lagoon is a visually captivating cocktail known for its striking azure hue, which is typically achieved with blue curaçao, a vibrant blue-colored, orange-flavored liqueur. This refreshing drink is often served in a highball glass, suggesting a casual yet stylish experience.</p><p>Its flavor profile is a bright mix of citrus and sweet notes, courtesy of the blend of lemonade and orange liqueur. Vodka provides a crisp, neutral base that allows the effervescent and fruity elements to shine, resulting in a balanced concoction that's both invigorating and enjoyable.</p><p>The Blue Lagoon is a popular choice in many bars and is often adorned with slices of lemon and orange, which not only enhance its visual appeal but also add a zesty aroma.</p>
Pardon the interruption
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Ingredients
Method
How to make a Blue Lagoon
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- Add the vodka and the curaçao into a highball glass with ice
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- Top up with lemonade
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- Garnish with a lemon slice and an orange slice and serve
Hiddin Hut Bar and Grill, Old Harbour
This trendy bar is a little tucked away, so it is ideal for those wanting to wander away from the tourist areas. It offers jell-o shots alongside creative craft cocktails, while adding a genuine and quirky twist on old classics such as the Margarita – try a spicy one, we dare you!
Cocktail glass
Microbadges
<p>The Margarita is a classic cocktail that originated in Mexico and has become a beloved drink all over the world. It is a simple yet delicious combination of tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.</p><p>The history of the Margarita is a bit murky, with several stories claiming to be the origin. Some say it was created in the 1930s by a bartender named Don Carlos Orozco, while others credit socialite Margaret Sames for inventing the drink in the 1940s.</p><p>Regardless of its exact origins, the Margarita has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. The flavour profile of this drink is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the tequila providing a smooth and slightly smoky kick.</p><p>The salt on the rim of the glass adds a touch of savouriness and enhances the overall flavour experience. Whether you prefer it frozen, on the rocks, or straight up, the Margarita is a must-try for any cocktail lover.</p>
Ingredients
Method
How to make a Margarita
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- Rim the edge of a cocktail glass with salt by coating the edge with lime juice and dipping into the salt
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- Add the other ingredients to a cocktail shaker with a few cubes of ice
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- Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
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- Strain into a cocktail glass and serve
If you are lucky enough to be visiting the home of reggae any time soon, any of these bars would make
for a wonderful evening in the sunshine.
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