• Dark Jamaican rum
  30 ml (1 oz)

  Look for something with a rich, funky profile
• Gold Puerto Rican rum
  25 ml (0.75 oz)

  Adds balance and smoothness
• 151-proof Demerara rum
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  For strength and a hint of smokiness
• Fresh lime juice
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  Always use freshly squeezed for best flavor
• Fresh grapefruit juice
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  Adds tartness and a tropical note
• Cinnamon syrup
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  Gives the drink its signature spicy kick
• Falernum
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  A sweet, spiced syrup common in tiki drinks
• Simple syrup
  10 ml (0.25 oz)

  Balances acidity
• Angostura bitters
  1 dash
• Absinthe
  6 drops

  A little goes a long way—adds a whisper of herbal complexity
• Crushed ice
  1.5 cups

  For blending or shaking

• Jigger
• Cocktail shaker (or spindle/hand blender for authentic tiki texture)
• Hawthorne strainer
• Citrus juicer
• Measuring spoon
• Rocks glass or double old fashioned glass

1. 1

   Add all liquid ingredients (rums, juices, syrups, falernum, bitters, and absinthe) to your shaker.

2. 2

   Add 1.5 cups of crushed ice.

3. 3

   Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds, or blend for a few seconds if you want the classic frothy tiki texture.

4. 4

   Strain into a double old fashioned or rocks glass filled with crushed ice.

5. 5

   Garnish and serve immediately.

• A complex blend of rums for depth and intrigue
• Spicy cinnamon syrup adds warmth and character
• Fresh citrus juices brighten and balance the drink
• Aromatic bitters and a dash of absinthe create an unforgettable aroma
• Perfect for tiki fans and anyone seeking a bold flavor adventure

The Jet Pilot was first created in the 1950s at the legendary Mai-Kai restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, inspired by Donn Beach’s (aka Don the Beachcomber) style of layered, multi-rum tiki cocktails. Designed to transport drinkers to a world of exotic flavors, the Jet Pilot stands out for its potent mix of rums, spicy cinnamon, and a touch of absinthe, making it a favorite among tiki enthusiasts looking for a drink with both flair and fire.