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.
1 servings