The Southside cocktail is one of the most refreshing gin drinks you can make. It combines gin, fresh citrus, simple syrup, and mint into a bright, herbaceous cocktail that feels like a cross between a gimlet and a mojito.
We use Southsides at outdoor events and cocktail hours when guests want something light, fresh, and a little more interesting than a standard gin drink. The mint adds an aromatic layer that makes it feel elevated while still being incredibly easy to drink.
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What is a Southside Cocktail?
A Southside cocktail is a gin-based drink made with fresh lime or lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint. It is shaken with ice and typically served in a chilled glass, creating a crisp, refreshing, and slightly herbal cocktail.
It’s often described as a minty gimlet or a gin-based mojito without soda water.
Southside Ingredients
This recipe makes one Southside cocktail.
- 2 oz gin
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- Ice
- Optional: mint sprig for garnish
How to Make a Southside Cocktail
- Lightly muddle the mint. Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a shaker and gently press to release oils.
- Add ingredients. Add gin, fresh lime juice, and ice.
- Shake. Shake hard for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Double strain. Strain into a chilled coupe glass to remove mint bits.
- Garnish. Add a fresh mint sprig and serve.
Bartender Tips for the Perfect Southside
- Don’t over-muddle mint or it will taste bitter.
- Always double strain for a clean finish.
- Use fresh citrus for brightness.
- Adjust sweetness depending on preference.
- Slap mint garnish before serving to release aroma.
Southside Variations
- Southside Fizz: Add soda water for a longer drink.
- Cucumber Southside: Add cucumber slices for freshness.
- Vodka Southside: Replace gin with vodka.
- Spicy Southside: Add jalapeño slices.
- Elderflower Southside: Add elderflower liqueur.
When to Serve a Southside
Southsides are perfect for warm weather, outdoor parties, weddings, and cocktail hours. The mint and citrus combination makes it one of the most refreshing gin cocktails for spring and summer.
Explore more refreshing drinks in our spring cocktails or browse gin cocktails.
Batch Recipe for Parties (8 Servings)
- 16 oz gin
- 6 oz lime juice
- 4 oz simple syrup
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
Lightly muddle mint in a pitcher, add remaining ingredients, and chill. Shake individual servings with ice and strain before serving.
Planning a party? Use our alcohol calculator to estimate quantities.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sugar: 7g
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Southside Cocktail FAQs
What is in a Southside cocktail?
A Southside cocktail is made with gin, fresh citrus juice, simple syrup, and mint. It is shaken and served chilled.
What’s the difference between a gimlet and a Southside?
A Southside includes fresh mint, while a gimlet is made with just gin, lime juice, and syrup. The mint gives the Southside a more aromatic and refreshing profile.
Is a Southside like a mojito?
Yes, the Southside is similar to a mojito but uses gin instead of rum and is usually served without soda water.
What does a Southside cocktail taste like?
It tastes fresh, citrusy, slightly sweet, and herbaceous with a clean finish from the gin and mint.
Southside Cocktail FAQs
What is in a Southside cocktail?
A Southside cocktail is made with gin, fresh lime or lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint. It is shaken with ice and served chilled for a refreshing, citrus-forward drink.
What’s the difference between a gimlet and a Southside?
A Southside includes fresh mint, while a gimlet does not. The addition of mint makes the Southside more aromatic and refreshing, often compared to a gin-based mojito.
Is a Southside similar to a mojito?
Yes, a Southside is similar to a mojito but uses gin instead of rum and is typically served without soda water, making it more concentrated and citrus-forward.
What does a Southside cocktail taste like?
It tastes fresh, slightly sweet, and citrusy with a bright herbal aroma from the mint and a clean finish from the gin.
Can you make a Southside with vodka?
Yes, you can substitute vodka for gin to create a smoother and less botanical version of the drink while keeping the same refreshing profile.
