Every cocktail has a legacy, and some last longer than others. Across the many bars and restaurants of Grand Rapids, there are a number of drinks that have become institutions in their own right.
While some spots prefer the variety of a frequently changing menu—like Buffalo Trader’s Lounge, Sidebar and Drip Drop Cocktail Room—others have favorites that stand the test of time.
So, here are some of what we consider to be the most iconic cocktails in Grand Rapids.
Long Road Distillers: Polish Falcon
A longtime favorite at Long Road (to the point they decided to can it up) the Polish Falcon is as refreshing as it is sharp. Built on a base of Original Vodka—crafted right on-site—it mingles with ginger beer, lemongrass, and a squeeze of lime for a citrusy snap that’s equal parts bold and breezy. It’s the kind of drink that feels like summer all year long.
SpeakEZ Lounge: Red Rum
With a name that nods to a certain haunted hotel, the Red Rum is anything but spooky—unless you’re afraid of flavor. This house blend of rums is infused with pineapple, vanilla beans, and sugar cane, then served over ice with pineapple juice and garnished with a boozy chunk of rum-soaked pineapple. It’s a potent little tropical vacation.
Butcher's Union: Roses Are Free
Romantic, bitter, and bold—just like your favorite breakup album—Roses Are Free is a Butcher’s Union classic. Wild Turkey 101 Rye and Averna Amaro meet house rosemary syrup and Peychaud’s bitters for a cocktail that’s herbal, rich, and plenty smoky, especially with that singed rosemary sprig on top.
Mo’s Cocktail Lounge: The Ashtray
Don’t let the name fool you—this smoky-sweet concoction is a showstopper. Reposado tequila, Cointreau, and Disaronno get a lift from Italian red wine, agave, citrus, and a black salt rim. The final flourish? A candy cigarette. Mo’s blends kitsch and class in equal measure, and The Ashtray is proof.
Max’s South Seas Hideaway: Max’s Barrel o’ Rum
You didn’t think we’d forget the tiki bar, did you? Max’s Barrel o’ Rum is their secret weapon: a hulking, boozy blend of full-bodied rums from around the globe, citrus juice, and just enough mystery to keep you guessing. Served in a rum barrel mug, it’s part drink, part legend.
Mammoth Distilling: The Dude
A White Russian walks into a dive bar. Add a splash of Coca-Cola, keep the cream, and you’ve got The Dude—Mammoth Distilling’s laid-back nod to the Big Lebowski. It’s smooth, sweet, and just chaotic enough to feel like a classic Michigan winter nightcap.
General Wood Shop: Stifler’s Mom
If you like your cocktails with a wink, Stifler’s Mom is calling. Eastern Kille Dry Gin pairs with elderflower liqueur, lemon, and a fizzy finish of champagne. It’s floral, bright, and effortlessly cheeky.
Lumber Baron Bar: The Baroness
Decadence in a glass. The Baroness is as elegant as its namesake venue, tucked inside the historic Amway Grand Plaza. With Belvedere vodka, St. Germaine, lemon, blackberry gastrique, and a crown of prosecco, it’s a sparkling, berry-kissed beauty best enjoyed in velvet armchairs under crystal chandeliers.
One Bourbon: Pecan & Peach Old Fashioned
An Old Fashioned with a Southern twang, this One Bourbon staple is all about comfort with a twist. Two bourbons—Old Charter and Benchmark—are stirred with roasted pecans, peach simple syrup, peach bitters, and a dash of saline. The pièce de résistance? A cinnamon-sugar brûléed peach perched on top.
Eastern Kille Distillery: PREMXD Espresso Martini
Eastern Kille takes the edge off with this ultra-convenient yet completely luxurious pre-mixed Espresso Martini. Vodka and house-made coffee liqueur pair up with locally roasted cold brew and a hint of simple syrup. All you have to do is chill it, shake it, and pretend you made it from scratch.
