The Southside cocktail blends gin, mint, lemon or lime juice, and simple syrup for a refreshing and elegant drink. Think of it as a herbal cousin to the mojito — crisp, cooling, and timelessly classy.
-
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with simple syrup.
-
Add the gin, lemon juice, and ice.
-
Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
-
Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to remove mint bits.
-
Garnish with a mint sprig for aroma — or a thin lemon wheel for contrast.
-
Grilled lamb or chicken skewers with herbs
-
Cucumber sandwiches or lemony hummus
-
Goat cheese salad with citrus dressing
-
Shortbread cookies or lemon bars
-
Fresh oysters or ceviche
Its cooling mint and citrus profile pairs wonderfully with herby, zesty, or lightly creamy foods.
-
Don’t over-muddle the mint — just press enough to release oils without bitterness.
-
Always double strain to avoid floating mint bits.
-
Lemon juice is more common, but lime juice is a tasty variation too (more mojito-like).
-
For a longer, refreshing version, serve it over ice in a highball glass with soda water (Southside Fizz).
-
Want extra chill? Shake with a few mint ice cubes for bonus aroma.
The Southside is believed to have originated in Chicago’s South Side during Prohibition, possibly at a private club frequented by mobsters. Its crisp, minty profile helped mask the harshness of bootleg gin. Today, it’s anything but rough — a refined, revitalized favorite in cocktail bars around the world.