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The Evolution of the Hawaiian Drink Mai Tai: Traditional vs. Modern at Royal Hawaiian OC

The Evolution of the Hawaiian Drink Mai Tai: Traditional vs. Modern at Royal Hawaiian OC

Are you longing to visit a tropical destination and have a drink that is exotic? The Mai Tai may have come to the back of your mind. It has been a staple in tropical bars for years. At Royal Hawaiian OC in Laguna Beach cherish this famous Hawaiian drink and have both traditional and new versions for you to enjoy, but with modern versions that provide both traditional and contemporary experiences in our bar!. Today, we'll explore the legendary drink by delving into its past and how its classic recipe compares with contemporary versions, allowing you to experience every aspect of it at our bar.

A Sip of History: The Traditional Mai Tai

Imagine this scenario: In the 1940s , cocktail culture is beginning to take off. It was in this decade that Mai Tai was first introduced. Mai Tai first emerged, and its story of birth is fascinating and vibrant. According to the legend, one of the two, Victor J. "Trader Vic" Bergeron or Donn Beach (aka Don the Beachcomber), made a claim to this tasty drink.

The traditional Mai Tai cocktail is an embodiment of simplicity and deliciousness, composed of rum that has aged as well as lime juice and oregano syrup (an almond-based syrup). It is then topped off with orange liqueur to give it more refreshing and satisfying characteristics. You can add pineapple wedges and cherry wedges for garnish to add appearance to a stunning drink!

Sipping the iconic Mai Tai is like sampling the past—a delicious blend of tastes that has been enjoyed over generations, taking you into Hawaii without having to leave the Royal Hawaiian OC!

Modern Twists: The Mai Tai Receives an Update

Today, looking ahead, we can see that the Mai Tai has undergone considerable changes. Bartenders from all over the world have brought their own unique twist to this timeless cocktail, and here at Royal Hawaiian OC, we are happy to present our contemporary version. While we respect the traditions, adding a contemporary twist makes the drink more exciting!

Let’s talk about some of the fresh twists we’ve put on the Mai Tai:

1. The fruit Fusion Mai Tai: To provide an additional tinge of sweet tropical flavor, we've added mango or passionfruit puree for extra sweetness and a burst of tropical flavors to this drink. It's perfect for those seeking an extra shot of sweetness with a tropical flavor!

2. The spiced Rum Mai Tai: While traditional Mai Tai recipes typically call for a rum that has been aged, we prefer to mix it up with spiced rum for more flavor and warmth in each drink! This variation adds a unique flavor to this classic drink!

3. "Tiki Berry" Mai Tai: If you are looking for something more delicious and vibrant in your cocktail, why not add some blueberries or strawberries as part of the mix? This Tiki Berry Mai Tai offers a vibrant flavor, vibrant color, and a burst of fresh fruit flavor!

4. The Low-Sugar Mai Tai: To accommodate our customers who are trying to limit their intake of sugar, we have a low-sugar variation of the Mai Tai cocktail. Through the use of natural sweeteners and changing the ingredients to enhance flavor without added sweetness, our drink will provide complete flavor and satisfaction while satisfying the desire for sweets!

The Best of Both Worlds at Royal Hawaiian OC

In Royal Hawaiian OC, you're enjoying the full flavor of both modern and traditional Mai Tais! Just browse through our menu, which highlights both styles, allowing you to enjoy both traditional and modern flavors as well as explore new and innovative versions.

In our bar, the bartenders serve traditional Mai Tais to help you understand the traditional recipe and its history. After you've become familiar with this timeless cocktail, make sure to try some of their contemporary twists to make something refreshing and fun!

What Makes the Mai Tai an Everlasting Classic

Then, why do you think the Mai Tai has been such an evergreen favorite? Maybe its variety and taste are the reasons for its popularity. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or enjoying a night out with your friends, the tropical drink offers the perfect escape into tropical paradise.

At Royal Hawaiian OC, our aim is to take every sip that you enjoy to the idyllic islands of your holiday. It doesn't matter if you like the classic Mai Tai or are open to trying something new; there's something for every taste and celebration.

Indulge in the Ultimate Mai Tai Experience at The Royal Hawaiian OC in Laguna Beach! 

Step into paradise with a go to The Royal Hawaiian, in which our mythical Mai Tai takes center stage. Located in the heart of Laguna Beach, our tiki-inspired bar gives a tropical escape, entire with the finest Hawaiian beverages and an inviting atmosphere. Sip on our expertly crafted Mai Tai, a great combination of rum, clean juices, and distinguished flavors that shipping you straight to the Laguna Beach. Join us for an unforgettable enjoy and taste the aloha spirit at The Royal Hawaiian OC.

Ready for a tropical getaway? Visit us today and experience the exceptional Mai Tai in Laguna Beach!

Join Us for a Mai Tai Experience

Are you looking forward to experiencing the rich history as well as modern versions of Mai Tai cocktails? Royal Hawaiian OC in Laguna Beach will welcome all of you with open arms if that's what you want! Our warm and welcoming staff will ensure you have a memorable experience, starting from sipping traditional Mai Tais to understanding the latest variations. Let us take the journey together.

Join us on this exciting journey—reserve your spot today and indulge in the ultimate Mai Tai experience!