The Paper Plane Cocktail is a modern classic born in 2007 but already flying high in the best bars from NYC to LA. A perfect equal-parts mix of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice, it's bittersweet, citrusy, and stylish. In Los Angeles, it's the ultimate power cocktail—loved by creatives, execs, and mixologists alike.
Whether it's a rooftop happy hour in DTLA or a private tasting in the Hills, the Paper Plane Cocktail soars above the rest.
Ingredients For The Paper Plane Cocktail (One Serving)
- ¾ oz Bourbon
- ¾ oz Aperol
- ¾ oz Amaro Nonino
- ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- Garnish: Lemon twist or dehydrated citrus wheel
- Glass: Coupe
- Ice: Shake with ice
LA Local Tip: At Party Shakers, we source citrus from Santa Monica Farmers Market and offer premium Amaro Nonino alternatives when availability is limited. Our Paper Plane is always freshly shaken and served ultra-cold.
How to Make the Paper Plane – LA Edition
1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
Keep it balanced—equal parts is key. The Paper Plane Cocktail
- Shake hard for 15 seconds.
Chill it down and wake it up. - Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Presentation matters. Clean pour, no pulp. - Garnish with a twist or citrus wheel.
Minimalist. Elegant. Elevated.
Why the Paper Plane Is Flying High in LA
It's the perfect blend of bold and bitter, sweet and sour. No fluff. All flavor. Ideal for:
- Industry wrap parties in Studio City
- Modern weddings in Venice
- Creative mixers in Culver City
- Gallery events in Downtown LA
The Paper Plane Cocktail pairs well with charcuterie, aged cheeses, or grilled seafood.
FAQs
What if I don't have Amaro Nonino?
We've tested substitutions—Averna, Montenegro, even Meletti—but nothing matches Nonino's balance. Still, we'll adapt when necessary. The Paper Plane Cocktail
Is it too bitter?
Not at all. The Aperol keeps it light, and the lemon juice brightens the profile. It's extremely well-rounded.
Can it be batched?
Absolutely. We pre-batch in equal parts, chill thoroughly, and shake per serving for freshness.
LA's Sharpest Modern Cocktail
Elegant. Refreshing. Unforgettable. The Paper Plane proves you don't need tradition to be iconic. Other drinks are also great to check out.
✅ Served across Los Angeles: Venice, Downtown, Westside, and beyond
✅ Equal-parts simplicity = perfect batching for events
✅ Ideal for creative professionals, weddings, or brand activations
✅ Delivered by Party Shakers mixologists who tell the story behind every pour