The Tuxedo Cocktail is the Martini's mysterious cousin—drier, deeper, and laced with a whisper of absinthe. Built with gin, dry vermouth, orange bitters, and maraschino liqueur, it's elegant without being flashy. In Los Angeles, where old Hollywood style still lives in the corners of private clubs and art deco hotels, the Tuxedo Drink is pure class in a chilled glass.
Perfect for soirées in Brentwood, rooftop jazz in DTLA, or anywhere that demands a suit-and-tie-level pour.
Ingredients The Tuxedo Cocktail (One Serving)
- 1½ oz Gin
- 1½ oz Dry Vermouth
- ¼ oz Maraschino Liqueur
- 2 dashes Orange Bitters
- Rinse of Absinthe (or a few drops)
- Garnish: Lemon twist or cherry
- Ice (for stirring)
- Coupe or Nick & Nora glass
LA Local Tip: Score top-tier vermouths and small-batch gins at Flask Fine Wines or Silverlake Wine. For local elegance, use AMASS Gin or Mulholland's Dry Gin with Lo-Fi or Vya vermouth—California favorites that bring LA terroir into every sip.
How to Make the Tuxedo Cocktail, Tailored for LA
1. Chill your glass.
Pop your coupe into the freezer or fill it with ice water while building your drink.
- Rinse with absinthe.
Add a few drops of absinthe to your chilled glass, swirl to coat, and discard the excess. This step adds a subtle herbal base. - Stir the ingredients.
In a mixing glass with ice, combine 1½ oz gin, 1½ oz dry vermouth, ¼ oz maraschino liqueur, and 2 dashes of orange bitters. Stir for 25–30 seconds until cold and silky. - Strain and garnish.
Double strain into your absinthe-rinsed glass. Garnish with a lemon twist for sharpness or a cherry for vintage appeal.
Why the Tuxedo Has a Cult Following in LA
The Tuxedo Cocktail isn't flashy—but that's its power. It's the drink of those who know what they like and expect it to be perfect. LA loves it for:
- VIP receptions in Beverly Hills
- Gatsby-style weddings in Pasadena
- Fashion house launch parties in West Hollywood
- Curated tasting menus at downtown chef's tables
It's the cocktail equivalent of a black-tie invitation: smooth, elegant, and deeply memorable. So are other drinks worth checking out.
FAQs
Is the Tuxedo a Martini variation?
Yes—but with its own identity. The maraschino liqueur softens the edges, the absinthe adds intrigue, and the bitters pull it together. It's a drier, more aromatic twist on the classic Martini.
Can I skip the absinthe?
You can—but you'll lose some of its complexity. Party Shakers can dial the amount up or down depending on the guest's palate.
Is this a good event cocktail?
Definitely. We serve it as a signature drink at black-tie events, vintage-themed parties, and high-end cocktail bars. Ask about our "Custom Martini Menu" for personalized variations.
Pour in Style – Book the Tuxedo Cocktail for Your LA Event
Classy, dry, and mysterious—the Tuxedo Cocktail is for those who appreciate elegance without the noise. Party Shakers makes it ice-cold, perfectly balanced, and always photo-ready.
✅ Available throughout Los Angeles County: Century City, Griffith Park, Studio City, and more
✅ Pairs beautifully with hors d'oeuvres, seafood, or charcuterie
✅ Optional menu upgrade: gin tastings, custom coupe glass engraving, or absinthe atomizer service
✅ Delivered by Party Shakers mixologists with white-glove precision