Born in the speakeasies of the 1920s, the Bee's Knees Cocktail was originally crafted to mask the rough edges of bathtub gin with honey and lemon. Fast-forward to 2025, and it's a polished, modern favorite—zesty, floral, and endlessly smooth. In Los Angeles, it's become a go-to for those who want a cocktail that's equal parts class and comfort.
From Westside brunches to Eastside garden weddings, the Bee's Knees cocktail is making a very stylish comeback.
Ingredients For The Bee's Knees Cocktail (One Serving)
- 2 oz Gin
- ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- ¾ oz Honey Syrup (2:1 honey to water)
- Garnish: Lemon twist or edible flower
- Glass: Coupe or Nick & Nora
- Ice: For shaking
LA Local Tip: At Party Shakers, we use raw organic honey from Southern California apiaries and cold-pressed lemon juice for a rich, velvety finish. Want something next-level? Try our Lavender Bee's Knees or our Smoky Bee with a splash of mezcal.
How to Make a Bee's Knees – LA Citrus Bloom Edition
1. Chill your glass.
Always start cold for a clean pour.
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
That's 2 oz gin, ¾ oz fresh lemon, ¾ oz honey syrup. - Shake hard for 15 seconds.
You want to wake up the citrus and emulsify the honey. - Double strain into your chilled glass.
No ice shards. Just golden silk. - Garnish with style.
Lemon twist for classic flair, or an edible flower for full SoCal charm.
Why LA Mixologists Love the Bee's Knees
It's simple, elegant, and ridiculously versatile. It fits the modern LA lifestyle—clean, bright, and full of flavor. You'll see it at:
- Brunch weddings in Pasadena
- Wellness events in Topanga
- Backyard parties in Silver Lake
- Business mixers in Downtown LA
It pairs beautifully with light bites, cheeses, citrusy desserts, and plant-forward dishes. This is The Bee's Knees Cocktail.
FAQs
What's the flavor profile?
The Bee's Knees Cocktail is bright, citrusy, and lightly floral. The honey smooths out the acidity without overwhelming.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes. We substitute with non-alcoholic gin or a botanical tea base for sober-friendly gatherings.
What gins work best?
We recommend floral or citrus-forward gins like Greenbar's City Bright or Amass for a true LA profile.
Book the Bee's Knees – A Prohibition Gem, Reimagined for LA
Smooth, subtle, and stunning—the Bee's Knees cocktail whispers elegance while delivering real flavor. Other drinks are just as worth checking.
✅ Available across Los Angeles: Santa Monica, Pasadena, Brentwood, Echo Park, Manhattan Beach
✅ Premium gins and raw honey blends available
✅ Ideal for weddings, brunches, brand events, and wellness-forward parties
✅ Served by expert mixologists who love shaking up vintage vibes with a modern twist
Book Party Shakers – Sweeten Your Event with the Bee's Knees Today