Big Island Iced Tea
Inspired by the traditional Long Island Iced Tea with a tropical, Islands twist.
.50 oz. rum
.50 oz. gin
.50 oz. vodka
.50 oz. tequila
.50 oz. triple sec
1 oz. strawberry puree
2.50 oz. pineapple juice
Garnish: pineapple wedge
What’s the origin of the Big Island Iced Tea?
The Big Island Iced Tea is inspired by the traditional Long Island Iced Tea with a tropical, Islands twist.
How would you describe the taste to someone who hasn’t had this before?
This drink has the familiarity of a Long Island Iced Tea with sweet overtones of pineapple and strawberry.
What would be the key component in this drink?
The strawberry puree and pineapple juice help balance out the powerful mixture of equal parts rum, gin, vodka, tequila and triple sec. The two tropical fruits help the drink stand out as a strong, but refreshingly fruity cocktail.
What reactions do you get from customers when they try this cocktail for the first time?
Guests love the Big Island Iced Tea and find that the refreshing drink pairs well with a lot of our menu items. I think our guests also like the Big Island Iced Tea because you get a lot of bang for your buck!
Watch as the beverage product manager of Islands, Brittany Ellis, makes this refreshing, traditional-inspired tropical cocktail, Big Island Iced Tea.
What are some good dishes to pair this drink with?
Almost any of our burgers are great with our tropical drinks, but the Hawaiian Burger, made with fresh pineapple, teriyaki sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion and Swiss cheese pairs really well with the Big Island Iced Tea. The sweet and savory flavors of fresh grilled pineapple and teriyaki sauce complement the cocktail well.
What kind of experience can someone get at Islands?
Guests can expect delicious food and a laid-back, beach inspired atmosphere. We believe in the basic philosophy that good food, friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere is the perfect end to a hard day of work or play. From the moment a guest walks in the door, we want them to feel welcomed and relaxed.
About Brittany Ellis
How long have you been the beverage product manager for Islands?
I’ve been the beverage product manager for 1 ½ years.
Have you ever bartended?
Yes, I was transitioning between college and my “real” job and started bartending to make money for traveling, but ended up managing the bar!
What’s your favorite drink?
My favorite tropical drink is the Big Island Iced Tea (surprise, surprise!), while my favorite standard drink is a dirty Tito’s martini.
What’s your favorite drink to make?
Any kind of martini. I also really enjoy experimenting with tropical flavors.
Are you planning on creating any new cocktails in the future?
We’re always experimenting with tropical flavors and tiki-style drinks to expand our selection - stay tuned!
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