The Southern Sour Cocktail, Honolulu Style

By Kendra Thornton

Everyone knows Hawaii is a magical place; be the beautiful weather, the catapulting waves, the tropical ambiance or the volcanic rock, it all works together in unison to remind you constantly that you are in a state of paradise.

My husband and I chose to stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort and we felt like absolute royalty during our holiday. It’s times like these in Chicago, during the winter months, I think about my stay in Honolulu and I reminisce to a place where I was in a state of bliss – and warmth!

While in Honolulu it’s almost imperative to visit Town Kaimuki restaurant. One of Honolulu’s tourist mainstays, it draws visitors in with its comfortable atmosphere and local menu. Their motto of “local first, organic whenever possible, and aloha always” sums up this restaurant’s aim. It’s quite close to the Resort and the 11 miles are easily covered in a taxi, limo, or with your own rental car. It’s worth the visit for a favorite cocktail: the Southern Sour. An amazing blend of peach liqueur and whiskey with a bit of fizz makes this a delectable treat to enjoy both in paradise and at home.

The Southern Sour is traditionally a shot of bourbon, a shot of Southern Comfort, and lemon-lime soda. Served over ice with a squeeze of lemon this cocktail is a strong one. The Southern Sour we’re talking about is a little different. I’m not a big fan of Southern Comfort but I do love peach schnapps, so I substituted that instead. I have included my recipe below because making this drink at home is quick and easy. And delicious! Cheers!

Southern Sour Cocktail Recipe
1 Shot (1.5 oz) Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey
1 Shot DeKuyper Peachtree Schnapps
1 Can Sprite
Maraschino Cherry
Lemon Wedge

In a highball filled halfway with ice, pour half the can of Sprite, the shot of whiskey, the shot of schnapps, and top with remaining soda. Garnish with lemon and cherry on a pick. Serve this at a cocktail party and be the hit of the night. I find that this drink always livens the mood. You may not be dipping your toes in the white sandy beaches, or having a stay in Honolulu’s top hotels; however, you can be sipping the taste of the island in your own home. Enjoy!