Southside Cocktail Recipe

The Southside cocktail is a refreshing drink perfect for summer sipping!

Made with gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint, it’s crisp, cool, and oh-so-minty.

Think of it like a cross between a Gimlet and a Mojito. Or maybe it’s more like a minty gin margarita. Either way, it’s a winner.

What Is a Southside Cocktail? 

Many people compare the Southside (or South Side) to other popular gin cocktails, like the Tom Collins or Gimlet.

But there are a couple of key differences.

The Southside cocktail is a gin-based drink with lime juice, simple syrup, and fresh mint. 

Unlike similar gin drinks, it does not contain lemon or soda water.

The oldest recipe dates back to 1916, when it first appeared in Huge Enslinn’s “Recipes for Mixed Drinks.”

Some say the South Side neighborhood in Chicago is what it’s named after. Others claim it originated at the Southside Sportsmen’s Club on Long Island.

Regardless, it’s one classy thirst-quencher!

Ingredients

The Southside cocktail recipe only calls for four simple ingredients. Most are kitchen staples, and they’re easy to find. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Gin – Any brand of gin will do. Pick your favorite, or try something like Beefeater or Bombay Sapphire.

• Lime Juice – Only use fresh lime juice. The bottled stuff has synthetic flavors that will make the drink taste funny.

• Simple Syrup – For sweetening the drink and balancing the lime. Use store-bought or DIY it with hot water and granulated sugar.

• Mint – Muddled fresh mint gives this cocktail its signature refreshing flavor.

How to Make a Southside

The Southside is an easy cocktail anyone can make at home. All you need is a muddler and a cocktail shaker. 

Don’t have either? Grab a wooden spoon and a jar with a lid.

Then, follow these steps:

1. Muddle the mint in a cocktail shaker. 

2. Fill the cocktail shaker with gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add ice, then shake for about 15 seconds.

3. Double-strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass.

4. Garnish with a mint sprig, serve, and enjoy!

What Is the Best Gin for The Southside? 

The best gin for the Southside is a quality brand. You don’t have to blow your budget, but don’t reach for the bottom shelf, either.

Instead, invest in a mid-range bottle.

Many quality brands land within this price range. Here are some suggestions with various price points:

• Beefeater – An excellent gin for cocktail making, including the Southside. It’s easy to find and on the lower side of the price range. 

• Bombay Sapphire – A dry London gin that’s balanced, bright, and versatile. It also comes at a reasonable price. 

• Plymouth Gin – Smooth, well-balanced botanicals with floral, citrusy, and spicy notes. The price is mid-range, so it’s affordable too.

• Hendrick’s Gin – This gin has lovely hints of rose and cucumber. The price is about mid-range, but sometimes you can find a good deal.

• No. 3 Dry London Gin – An award-winning premium dry London gin that balances juniper, citrus, and spice. It’s a little pricey but won’t cost you top dollar.

Southside Fizz Recipe 

Want to make this cocktail even more refreshing? Turn it into a Southside Fizz! 

1. Muddle the mint and shake the drink like normal.

2. Add a splash of soda water to the glass after straining.

It’s a fun, bubbly variation that’s extra thirst-quenching. 

It’s not the only riff, though. There are other variations that are just as refreshing. Here are two you should try:

• Southside Royale. Includes gin, lime juice, simple syrup, mint, and club soda.

• Southside Rickey. Combine gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, mint, and Champagne.

More Gin Cocktails You’ll Love

Gin Rickey
Sloe Gin Fizz
Gin Fizz
Gin and Tonic