Cocktail Class: Tiki Themed

Get ready to mix up some tropical vibes and master your own tiki cocktails in this fun hands-on class!
Aloha and Welcome to an Immersive Tiki Experience at The Curious Crow! Dust off your favorite aloha shirt and prepare your palate for a journey through the neon-lit, palm-fringed world of Polynesian Pop. You are cordially invited to an immersive Tiki Cocktail Masterclass, hosted by the incomparable duo: Mambo Mike and Dr. Sunshine. This isn’t just a mixology lesson; it’s a high-energy escape into a world of exotic flavors, escapism, and the amazing cocktails that defined an era.
Your Hosts: The Titans of Tiki
The evening is guided by two aficionados of the island lifestyle. Mambo Mike brings the rhythm and the flair, specializing in the bold, spicy profiles that make Caribbean-inspired drinks sing. Beside him, Dr. Sunshine provides the "cure" for the mundane, offering a bright, citrus-forward perspective on drink construction and the precision needed to balance spirits, syrups, and citrus. Together, they bridge the gap between classic craftsmanship and the whimsical "party-first" atmosphere of a true tiki lounge.
The Liquid Curriculum
Throughout the session, we will hand-craft three distinct cocktails, each representing a different pillar of tropical mixology:
1. The El Presidente: We begin with elegance. Often called the "Manhattan of the Tropics," this sophisticated blend of light rum, vermouth, and dry orange curaçao provides a masterclass in balance. It’s the perfect "sunset" drink to transition us into the tiki mindset.
2. The Pineapple Daiquiri: Next, we explore the power of fresh fruit and acidity. Moving beyond the sugary frozen blends of tourist traps, we’ll craft a proper, shaken daiquiri that highlights the bright, acidic punch of pineapple. You’ll learn the "Doctor’s" secret ratio for ensuring the fruit enhances—rather than masks—the rum.
3. Mambo’s Navy Grog: For our finale, Mambo Mike takes the lead with his signature take on a mid-century classic. This is a heavy hitter featuring a "holy trinity" of rums, citrus juices, and cinnamon syrup. You’ll learn the art of the perfect rum and how to use spices like pimento or cinnamon to create that mysterious, lingering finish.
More Than Just a Drink
While the shakers will be rattling, the conversation will be flowing just as freely. Between pours, Mambo Mike and Dr. Sunshine will peel back the curtain on the history of Tiki culture. We’ll discuss the post-WWII obsession with the South Pacific, the legendary rivalry between Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic, and how these "mystery drinks" became a global phenomenon.