The Zombie Cocktail isn't just a tiki drink—it's an experience. Conceived in the 1930s by Donn Beach (aka Don the Beachcomber) in Hollywood, this drink became famous for knocking guests out cold after just one round. With three types of rum, tropical juices, and a hint of fire, the Zombie is pure Polynesian drama, born right here in Los Angeles.

Today, it's the secret weapon at LA's most unforgettable parties—from Hollywood Hills pool ragers to Malibu luau weddings. This is The Zombie Cocktail.

Ingredients For The Zombie Cocktail (One Serving – Classic Donn Beach Version)

  • 1½ oz Jamaican Rum
  • 1½ oz Puerto Rican Rum (Gold)
  • 1 oz Lemon Hart 151 (or other Overproof Rum)
  • ¾ oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • ½ oz Don's Mix (2 parts grapefruit juice to 1 part cinnamon syrup)
  • ½ oz Falernum
  • 1 dash Angostura Bitters
  • 1 tsp Grenadine
  • 6 drops Absinthe or Pastis
  • Crushed Ice
  • Garnish: Mint sprig, cherry, and optional flaming lime shell
  • Glass: Tiki mug or tall Collins

LA Local Tip: At Party Shakers, we use LA-roasted cinnamon syrup and fresh-squeezed juice to build a more refined Zombie Cocktail. For ultra-premium events, we bring the full tiki fire show—yes, real flames included.

How to Make a Zombie – LA Polynesian Party Version

1. Chill your tiki mug with crushed ice.
Tiki drinks should look and feel ice-cold from the start. It all stars here for The Zombie Cocktail.

  1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
    That includes the absinthe—it's subtle but essential for that haunting aroma.
  2. Shake hard for 10 seconds.
    Strain into your mug over fresh crushed ice.
  3. Garnish dramatically.
    Add mint, a cherry, and a lime shell filled with overproof rum. Light it on fire at your own risk (we do it safely at events).

Why LA Still Worships the Zombie

Invented right here in Hollywood, the Zombie Cocktail isn't just a cocktail—it's tiki culture in a glass. It's theatrical, dangerous, and absolutely unforgettable. You'll spot it at:

  • Luau weddings in Topanga
  • Retro tiki bars in Echo Park
  • Pool parties in West LA
  • Themed movie nights in Highland Park

It pairs perfectly with tropical bites, Hawaiian BBQ, or fire-dancing. (Yes, we've done that.)

FAQs

How strong is the Zombie?
Extremely. It's notorious for a reason—this drink can clock in at over 3 standard drinks in one glass. We limit guests to one unless pre-approved by the host.

Can this be made non-alcoholic?
Yes, we have a "Zombie Lite" version with spiced syrups and juices that keeps the look and flavor, minus the knockout.

What's the fire part about?
We use a lime shell filled with overproof rum and set it ablaze on request. For safety, only our mixologists handle it.

Book the Zombie – LA's Most Infamous Cocktail, Reborn by Party Shakers
If your event needs spectacle, flavor, and a nod to LA's cocktail heritage, the Zombie is it. Just don't say we didn't warn you. There are also other great drink options to choose from.

✅ Available across LA: Venice, Echo Park, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Long Beach
✅ Served with dramatic garnish and optional fire element
✅ Ideal for tiki parties, themed weddings, and Halloween blowouts
✅ Delivered by mixologists who know how to thrill without going overboard

Book Party Shakers – Pour the Zombie and Raise the Spirits (Literally)