If you can’t get to the beach, you can at least get a beach feeling with our list of six exotic cocktails infused with tropical flavours, including mango, coconut, guava and passion fruit.
So grab your flip-flops and head to one of these local joints for a taste of the tropics in Cowtown.
Anejo: Mango Margarita
With more than 130 kinds to choose from, tequila is the star of Aejo’s drink menu. If you’re not a fan of it straight-up try it blended with fresh mango puree, agave, triple sec and lime. (2, 2116 4 St. S.W., 587-353-2656, anejo.ca, @anejoyyco)
Caf Koi: Jade Dragon
This Asian-fusion downtown hotspot features several fruity cocktails. Try the Jade Dragon for a tasty blend of melon liqueur, vodka, pineapple, lemon and cranberry. (100, 1011 1 St. S.W., 403-206-1564, cafekoi.com)
The Coup + Meet: New Age Barbie Colada
The Coup + Meet’s cocktail menu has blended, shaken, stirred and muddled sips. For a beachy treat try the New Age Barbie Colada, a blend of coconut rum, coconut gelato, pineapple and mint. (924 17 Ave. S.W., 403-541-1041, thecoup.ca, @thecoupcalgary)
Mango Shiva: Guava Collins
Mango Shiva brings an exotic twist to classic cocktails – think tamarind, pomegranate and ginger bee r- and the Guava Collins is no different with its mix of fresh guava, gin, soda and lime. (218 8 Ave. S.W., 403-290-1644, mangoshiva.com)
Ox and Angela: Rio Fogo
For a leisurely summer evening order one of Ox and Angela’s delicious cocktails and half a dozen or so plates of tapas. Try the Rio Fogo, a mix of cachaca, lime, passionfruit and chili. (528 17 Ave. S.W., 403-457-1432, oxandangela.com, @oxandangela)
West Restaurant and Bar: Passion Fruit Lemonade
West’s 15,000 square foot rooftop patio is made for summer lounging. Order the passion fruit lemonade, featuring ginger liqueur, passion fruit puree and rosemary-infused lemonade. (225 7 Ave. S.W., 403-237-5556, westrestaurantandbar.com, @westcalgary)