Light. Effervescent. Unapologetically fresh. The Gin Fizz cocktail is one of those timeless cocktails that fits Los Angeles perfectly. With its refreshing mix of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water, it's the ideal drink for sunshine-filled events from Santa Monica rooftops to Pasadena garden weddings.

Served ice-cold with a bubbly finish, the Gin Fizz is a go-to for any LA host looking to offer something easy-drinking, stylish, and always refreshing.

Ingredients for The Gin Fizz Cocktail (One Serving)

  • 2 oz London Dry Gin
  • 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • ¾ oz Simple Syrup
  • Soda Water (to top)
  • Ice
  • Lemon wheel or twist (garnish)
  • Highball glass

Local Tip: For a uniquely SoCal twist, use gin from Greenbar Distillery (DTLA) and filtered LA tap water carbonated with a SodaStream to keep it sustainable and local.

How to Make a Proper Gin Fizz

  1. Chill your glass.
    Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice water or place it in the freezer for 10 minutes.
  2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a shaker.
    Fill the shaker with ice and add 2 oz gin, 1 oz lemon juice, and ¾ oz simple syrup.
  3. Shake until well-chilled.
    Shake hard for about 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty cold. The Gin Fizz Cocktail is ideal.
  4. Strain into your chilled glass over fresh ice.
    Use a fine strainer to keep the texture smooth.
  5. Top with soda water.
    Add 2–3 oz soda water, depending on glass size and preferred strength. Stir gently.
  6. Garnish.
    A lemon wheel or twist gives it that fresh citrus aroma right off the top.

Why LA Loves the Gin Fizz

The Gin Fizz cocktail is tailor-made for Los Angeles events: it's low in alcohol, high in refreshment, and pairs beautifully with SoCal food. Guests love its crispness at:

  • Outdoor brunches in Venice Beach
  • Poolside weddings in Hollywood Hills
  • Health-conscious happy hours in Culver City
  • Influencer events in West Hollywood

It's also a favorite among those who prefer something lighter but still flavorful—a perfect option when you want to keep your guests engaged without knocking them over. Greats like this and the Ramos Fizz deserve the praise.

FAQs

What's the difference between a Gin Fizz and a Tom Collins?
They're nearly identical. The Gin Fizz cocktail is usually served in a smaller glass and shaken without ice for a frothier texture, while the Tom Collins is built directly in the glass. At Party Shakers, we'll ask which style you prefer.

Can I add egg white for more foam?
Yes! That variation is called a Silver Fizz, and it adds a silky texture to the drink. We offer both versions at events upon request, including vegan egg white alternatives like aquafaba.

Can Party Shakers batch this cocktail for events in LA?
Absolutely. We prep the gin, lemon, and syrup in advance and add soda water on-site for a fresh finish. Ideal for large-scale events where time and consistency matter.

Book the LA Fizz Bar Experience

Want a cocktail that's light, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for SoCal weather? The Gin Fizz cocktail is a refreshing choice for any event in Los Angeles—from Malibu estates to Glendale backyards. Party Shakers is ready to help.

✅ Fast, consistent service for large crowds
✅ Custom fizz bars available (Gin Fizz, Vodka Fizz, Cucumber Fizz, etc.)
✅ Served across Los Angeles County: Pasadena, Santa Monica, Burbank, DTLA, and beyond
✅ Professional mixologists, flawless presentation