Named with a flair for shock and curiosity, the Monkey Gland Cocktail was born in 1920s Paris—but its bold mix of gin, orange juice, grenadine, and absinthe makes it feel right at home in the eccentric, glamorous world of Los Angeles nightlife. Don't let the name throw you off—this cocktail is bright, slightly herbal, and unapologetically unique.
From rooftop bars in Hollywood to underground speakeasies in Koreatown, the Monkey Gland brings Prohibition-era rebellion into the LA spotlight.
Ingredients (One Serving)
- 2 oz Gin (London Dry or local craft)
- 1 oz Fresh Orange Juice
- ¼ oz Grenadine (use pomegranate-based, not artificial)
- A few drops Absinthe or a light absinthe rinse
- Ice
- Coupe or chilled cocktail glass
LA Local Tip: Score quality absinthe at K&L Wines in Hollywood or Silverlake Wine. For gin, LA's own Greenbar Distillery and AMASS Gin offer locally distilled options that punch with botanical complexity.
How to Make the Monkey Gland Cocktail
1. Chill the glass.
Put your coupe in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink.
- Rinse with absinthe.
Add a few drops of absinthe to your chilled glass, swirl it around, then dump the excess. (Or skip this if you prefer just a light herbal note.) - Shake it all together.
Add 2 oz gin, 1 oz orange juice, and ¼ oz grenadine to a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. - Strain into your absinthe-rinsed glass.
Double strain for clarity and smooth texture. - Garnish if you like.
Not traditional, but a flamed orange peel or thin orange twist adds a dramatic LA touch.
Why LA Is Embracing the Monkey Gland Again
With LA's obsession for rediscovered cocktails and Instagrammable drinks, the Monkey Gland fits right in. It's mysterious, citrusy, and carries a story that fascinates guests. Perfect for:
- Secret speakeasy events in Highland Park
- Theater premieres in North Hollywood
- Vintage-themed weddings in Topanga Canyon
- Cocktail workshops in Santa Monica lofts
The Monkey Gland also pairs surprisingly well with LA's love for bold dishes—think spicy Asian-fusion or seafood tapas.
FAQs
What does the Monkey Gland taste like?
It's citrus-forward from the orange juice, slightly sweet from grenadine, and has a whisper of anise from the absinthe. Imagine a gin screwdriver with an artsy, herbal upgrade.
Can I skip the absinthe?
You can—but then it's not a true Monkey Gland. The absinthe is subtle but key to the cocktail's intrigue. A rinse gives just enough flavor without overwhelming.
Is this a good drink for parties?
Absolutely. It's eye-catching and rare, which makes it a crowd-pleaser for curious guests. Party Shakers often features it as part of themed "Forbidden Cocktails" menus or for events with a roaring '20s vibe.
Serve the Wild Side of Cocktail History – Book the Monkey Gland in LA
It's bold. It's rare. It's unforgettable. The Monkey Gland cocktail makes any event stand out with edge, elegance, and a nod to rebellion. Add it to your LA event and give your guests a drink to talk about.
✅ Available throughout Los Angeles County: Echo Park, Beverly Hills, Sherman Oaks, DTLA, and beyond
✅ Served by Party Shakers' award-winning mixologists with flair and flavor
✅ Optional absinthe fountain presentation or flaming garnish
✅ Ideal for Prohibition-themed parties, film events, and avant-garde weddings
Book Party Shakers – Serve the Monkey Gland and Add a Twist of Madness to Your Night