Pago Pago
The Pago Pago is a vibrant, tropically inspired cocktail that blends the freshness of pineapple with the herbal complexity of Chartreuse, all balanced by the deep character of dark rum. With its lush flavors and striking jade-green hue, this drink instantly transports you to a sun-drenched island paradise—no plane ticket required.
Pago Pago
The Pago Pago is a vibrant, tropically inspired cocktail that blends the freshness of pineapple with the herbal complexity of Chartreuse, all balanced by the deep character of dark rum. With its lush flavors and striking jade-green hue, this drink instantly transports you to a sun-drenched island paradise—no plane ticket required.
- Pineapple chunks (fresh)30 ml (1 oz)About 2-3 small chunks
- Green Chartreuse15 ml (0.5 oz)Adds herbal complexity
- Dark Jamaican rum45 ml (1.5 oz)Provides rich, molasses flavor
- White crème de cacao15 ml (0.5 oz)Adds subtle chocolate sweetness
- Lime juice (freshly squeezed)15 ml (0.5 oz)Balances sweetness with acidity
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine mesh strainer
- Jigger
- Paring knife
- Citrus juicer
Add the pineapple chunks to a cocktail shaker and muddle until well-puréed to release juices.
Add Green Chartreuse, dark Jamaican rum, white crème de cacao, and freshly squeezed lime juice to the shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or small cocktail glass to remove pulp and ice shards.
Garnish and serve immediately.
- Vibrant, refreshing tropical flavors
- Unique herbal notes from Green Chartreuse
- Eye-catching, lush green color
- Perfect balance of sweet, tart, and herbal
- A rare and sophisticated tiki classic
The Pago Pago cocktail first appeared in the 1940s, during the golden age of tiki drinks. It was named after the capital of American Samoa, capturing the exotic allure that defined the tiki craze. The earliest published recipe is found in 'The How and When' cocktail book (1940), and it later gained popularity in the renowned bars of Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic’s. The use of Green Chartreuse, a French herbal liqueur, set the Pago Pago apart from other tiki concoctions, lending it a unique flavor profile that’s both tropical and intriguingly complex.
Pineapple leaf and/or a small wedge of fresh pineapple. The garnish adds a tropical visual flair and enticing aroma that complements the drink’s flavors.
Approximately 180 calories per serving. Contains alcohol, carbohydrates from fruit and liqueurs, and minimal fat. Not suitable for individuals avoiding alcohol or sugar.