The Southside Cocktail is a timeless gin cocktail that combines fresh mint, freshly squeezed lemon juice, gin, and simple syrup for a bright, herbal, and perfectly balanced drink.
Looking for the best Southside cocktail recipe?
Beat the heat with a refreshingly herbal Southside. This vibrant gin-based cocktail pairs cooling mint with bright citrus and a touch of sweetness to create a light, drinkable cocktail perfect for warm afternoons or casual gatherings.
Watch 🎥 How to Make a Gin Southside
What Is a Southside Cocktail?
The Southside is a simple gin cocktail rooted in early 20th-century cocktail culture. Early printed recipes appear in bartending guides from the 1910s and 1920s. Over time the drink evolved from fizz-style versions to the classic shaken cocktail we know today. The combination of gin, citrus, sugar, and mint makes it a refreshing alternative to other mint-forward drinks.
What You’ll Love About this Gin Cocktail
- EASY – ready in about 5 minutes.
- REFRESHING – mint and citrus create a bright, cooling profile.
What You Need to Make a Southside Cocktail
- Mint leaves – fresh leaves provide the cooling herb note.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice – bright and tangy.
- Gin – choose a gin you enjoy; its botanicals shape the final flavor.
- Simple syrup – balances acidity; homemade or store-bought works fine.
- Fresh mint sprig – for garnish and aroma.
How to Make a Southside Cocktail
- Add the mint leaves and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker or mixing glass and gently muddle to release the oils.
- Pour in the gin and simple syrup, add ice, and shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Double-strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass and garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Expert Recipe Tips
- Swap fresh lime juice for lemon for a slightly sharper, tangier edge.
- Add a splash of club soda for a light fizz and softer finish.
- Make a batch in a pitcher for parties—multiply the recipe and keep chilled until serving.
How to serve this cocktail
Serve the Southside in a chilled coupe, martini glass, or any cocktail glass. It works well as an aperitif or a light evening drink. The mint garnish adds aroma; clap the sprig between your hands and place it on top for the best scent.
Whether you’re exploring new cocktails or want something cool and simple, the Southside delivers a balanced mix of bright citrus, sweetener, gin botanicals, and mint freshness. Try it and adjust the sweetness or citrus to suit your taste.
Southside Cocktail Recipe
A refreshingly cool and balanced drink made with gin, fresh mint, lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup. A perfect herbal summer sipper.
Equipment
- cocktail shaker
- cocktail glass
Ingredients
- 10 mint leaves
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Fresh mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions
- Add the mint leaves and lemon juice to a shaker or mixing glass and muddle.
- Pour the gin and simple syrup into the shaker, add ice, and shake well until chilled.
- Double-strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Video
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice instead of lemon for a tangier version.
- Add a splash of club soda for light effervescence.
Nutrition
Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make a large batch of this cocktail?
Yes. Multiply the ingredients to serve more guests. Keep the batched mix chilled and add ice when serving.
What does this cocktail taste like?
Light and refreshing with herbal mint, bright citrus, and gin botanicals balanced by gentle sweetness.
What’s the difference between a Southside and a mojito?
A mojito uses rum as the base spirit, while the Southside uses gin. Gin brings more piney and botanical notes compared with rum’s sweeter, molasses-driven profile.