Casino Cocktail

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Roll the dice, go all in and always bet on the Casino Cocktail for a grand time at whatever table you find yourself at.

The laughter from the baccarat table was familiar. I looked up from my gourmet mac and cheese and saw that diamond-encrusted eyepatch… the one I can never unsee whenever I drink a Monte Carlo. My old nemesis seemed to be enjoying the night, and appeared to be winning big. Piles and piles of chips seemed to be growing in front of him, mountains of currency materializing before everyone’s bemused eyes. The cocktail waiter came by, asking the high roller what they’d like.

“I’ll have the casino!” The answer roared through the low-lit room, followed by peals of arrogant guffaws. The waiter nodded and quickly left, only to reappear moments later with a coupe filled with a libation of sorts, topped with a maraschino cherry. With one good eye, the dastardly character scanned the glass up and down. A growl escaped their curled, sneering lips. “What’s THIS?!”

The waiter curtly responded. “You said you wanted the casino. This is exactly that… a Casino cocktail. A popular pre-Prohibition libation, of the Daisy variety, which is a spirit, a citrus and a sweetener. First appearing in 1909 when the recipe was published-“

The one-eyed figure angrily waved a hand, cutting the waiter off while guzzling the cocktail that had been served. With a loud smacking of lips and a firm hand slapping down on the card table, one loud word was shouted in the server’s direction. “Another. And cut the balloon juice this time.”

With a nod and a knowing smile, the waiter scuttled off. I’d have to order one myself at some point, as my curiosity was growing. But I wouldn’t want my old “friend” to notice me…

What Is The Best Gin To Use In A Casino Cocktail?

When this drink was first being mixed and served to a thirsty public, an Old Tom gin was traditionally used as the base. Since Old Tom is still widely available, this is a great and old-school route to go with this beverage. Today, when this cocktail is ordered in bars, pubs or taverns, a London Dry gin, such as Beefeater, Tanqueray or Sipsmith, will give you an herbaceous and balanced tipple.

FAQs & Tips

WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?

Chill a coupe or a Nick & Nora glass in your freezer for up to 30 minutes before prepping and serving your cocktail. Once your drink is poured in, garnish with a maraschino cherry.

CAN YOU STORE THE CASINO COCKTAIL?

If you’re making a large batch for a big group, you can scale up the ingredients and combine them in an airtight container for up to five days. Shake individual servings over ice.

HOW MANY CALORIES ARE IN A CASINO COCKTAIL?

At only 161 calories per glass, you might be tempted to shake up another round or two.

IS THIS AN OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZED COCKTAIL?

Yes. The Casino is an officially recognized cocktail by the International Bartenders Association, and is on their list in the “Unforgettables” category.

Similar Drinks To The Casino Cocktail

The waiter in the story above had mentioned the Casino is known as a “Daisy” variety of drink, which is a mixture of a spirit, citrus juice and sugar. If you have simple syrup, lemon or lime juice, or a sweet and sour mix, find your favorite liquor and start mixing up a few tart and sharp-tasting treats. And if you don’t know where to look or start, let Twist & Toast give you a few ideas.

• Aviation – Close to tonight’s recipe, but featuring crème de violette.
• Brandy Crusta – This New Orleans classic combines brandy with lemon juice and simple syrup, as well as orange curaçao and maraschino liqueur.
• Tequila Daisy – Tart and fizzy, this cocktail celebrates both the sour and sweet.
• Daiquiri – Rum, lime juice and simple syrup are all you need to craft this legendary drink.