Oceans 1555
SPLASHES
The Popo and Pine-o
THE SALOON
Splashes ’ oceanfront location and seaside vibe call for a signature cocktail to properly represent both . The Oceans 1555 cocktail fits the bill and even takes into consideration the establishment ’ s address .
The epitome of a craft cocktail , Oceans 1555 contains strawberry- and raspberry-infused Empress 1908 Gin , which creates a unique color that fluctuates based on the ripeness of the berries and makes the cocktail approachable for even those who don ’ t usually drink gin . Pamplemousse ( pink grapefruit ) liqueur and Splashes ’ house-made citrus infusion , which combines oranges , lemons , limes and juniper berries , add to the flavor , while superfood blue spirulina is added to enhance the ocean color of the drink .
To enhance the already aromatic cocktail , an atomizer is used to spritz rose water on a bed of foaming bitters , which is decorated with blue spirulina hearts . An edible flower garnish is also added as a finishing touch .
The Saloon boasts not one , but two popular signature drinks . The Pine-o was originally designed by former Saloon bartender Dan Vincent as a refreshing summer drink nearly 30 years ago ; the vodka for this drink is infused with pineapple slices in a large jar behind the bar . The Popo was first crafted in 1979 by and named after notable Saloon bartender , J . “ Popo ” Galsini .
“ The Pine-o is a twist on a cosmopolitan and a kamikaze — a crani-kaze . It ’ s made with pineapple-infused vodka , cranberry juice and a splash of triple sec . It ’ s not as sweet as you ’ d think and it ’ s ridiculously refreshing ,” says Saloon owner Michael Byrne .
“ Popo created the original version of his namesake drink , which has changed over the years , but not by much . Now , the ingredients are a completely secret combination of boozes mixed with coffee . Despite daily attempts to trick the bartenders into revealing the ingredients , I ’ ll only admit to half of it being coffee .” g
LEFT : COURTESY OF SURF & SAND RESORT ; RIGHT : SHARON STELLO
Left : Oceans 1555 , made with berry-infused gin , at Splashes ; right : the Pine-o , with pineapple-infused vodka , at The Saloon
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 63