SOUTHSIDE

The Southside: The Prohibition Mojito from Long Island's Gold Coast

The Southside's exact origin is disputed, with two main theories. One story claims it was created at Chicago's Southside during Prohibition by bootleggers who used mint to mask the harsh taste of illegal gin. However, the more credible origin points to the Southside Sportsmen's Club on Long Island, where wealthy summer residents drank the cocktail during the 1920s.

The Long Island connection is better documented, with the drink appearing in cocktail books from the 1920s associated with the North Shore's country club scene. The area, known as the Gold Coast and later immortalized in "The Great Gatsby," was home to wealthy New Yorkers who entertained lavishly despite Prohibition.

What makes the Southside work is the combination of fresh mint with gin's botanicals. Unlike the rum-based Mojito, which uses lime, the Southside uses lemon juice, creating a brighter, less tropical flavor profile. The mint is muddled gently to release oils without bitterness, while the sugar balances the lemon's tartness.

The drink can be served either shaken and strained into a coupe glass or served long over ice in a highball glass, sometimes topped with soda water in a variation called the Southside Fizz. The shaken version became more popular during the craft cocktail revival as bartenders emphasized the classic presentation.

The Southside remains popular at country clubs and yacht clubs along the East Coast, maintaining its association with preppy, old-money summer culture.

RECIPE:

2 oz gin

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

¾ oz simple syrup

6-8 fresh mint leaves

Mint sprig for garnish

Method:

1. Add mint leaves to shaker and gently muddle

2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup

3. Add ice and shake well until chilled

4. Double strain into chilled coupe glass

5. Garnish with fresh mint sprig