It is always fun to have things that are special to us as Marylanders. With summer just around the corner, take a look at these light, refreshing cocktails to enjoy poolside or with dinner. If you are stuck out of town, pour yourself one of these signature cocktails to make you feel you are back on the Bay.
- Orange Crush: The Orange Crush has probably become the most famous Maryland Cocktail. Though it is traditionally a fresh squeezed orange, triple sec, and vodka topped with Sprite, bartenders all over the state have put their own twist on the drink. Try the best Crushes at the original location, Harborside Bar & Grill in West Ocean City this summer.
- Black Eyed Susan: This drink is named after the Maryland state flower and the flowers that make up the blanket which drapes over the winning horse at Preakness. The drink contains the perfect blend of orange juice, pineapple juice, vodka, rum, and orange liquor. Want to try it outside of Preakness? Try it year ‘round at Old Maryland Grill in College Park when restaurants open back up.
- Maryland Mule: The Maryland Mule puts a Baltimore twist on the traditional Moscow Mule. Instead of the traditional vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer, the twist replaces vodka with bourbon, more specifically, Sagamore Rye Bourbon. Try it at Crab Claw Restaurant in St. Michaels.
- Maryland Bloody Marys: Obviously we put Old Bay on everything, and that doesn’t end at food. At true Maryland Bloody Mary should have an Old Bay rim and topped with jumbo lump crab. Marylander’s don’t have Sunday Brunch without a Bloody Mary meal in a cup, topped with shrimp, sliders, fried chicken, you name it. Make your own at home with George’s Bloody Mary Mix, which is a secret recipe by Annapolis’ Middleton Tavern bartender, or get a specialty Bloody Mary and Crabcake Factory USA in Ocean City.
- Oyster Shooter: Think about it, a raw oyster, cocktail sauce, and vodka, chased by beer. Okay maybe don’t think about it, but just go for it. This slippery, salty shooter is what makes you a true Marylander.
