Pearl Diver

The Pearl Diver is a lush, tropical classic that invites you to drift away to a breezy paradise with every sip. Combining the richness of buttered honey, the brightness of citrus, and the depth of Caribbean rums, the Pearl Diver is a creamy, smooth, and utterly unique tiki cocktail. Its velvety mouthfeel and balanced flavors have made it a cult favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and tiki aficionados alike.

8 minutesHard1 serving
Pearl Diver
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Aged Jamaican rum
    45 ml (1.5 oz)
    For depth and funk
  • Demerara rum
    25 ml (0.75 oz)
    Adds richness and body
  • Fresh lime juice
    25 ml (0.75 oz)
    Freshly squeezed for brightness
  • Fresh orange juice
    15 ml (0.5 oz)
    Adds sweetness and complexity
  • Pearl Diver’s Mix*
    30 ml (1 oz)
    See note below for recipe
  • Simple syrup
    10 ml (0.25 oz)
    Balances tartness
  • Angostura bitters
    1 dash
    Adds aromatic spice
  • Crushed ice
    1 cup
    Heaping cup for blending
Tools Needed
  • Blender
  • Shaker
  • Jigger
  • Bar spoon
  • Strainer
  • Tiki mug or tall glass
Instructions
  1. *Make the Pearl Diver’s Mix: Blend 0.5 oz unsalted butter (melted), 1 oz honey, 1 oz cinnamon syrup, 0.5 oz allspice liqueur, and 0.5 oz fresh orange juice until smooth. Use 1 oz for the drink; store the rest for later.

  2. Add all ingredients (including 1 oz Pearl Diver's Mix) to a blender with a heaping cup of crushed ice.

  3. Blend for 5–10 seconds until smooth and frothy.

  4. Pour into a chilled Pearl Diver glass, tiki mug, or tall glass.

  5. Add more crushed ice to fill, if needed.

  6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, mint sprig, and a colorful paper straw.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Unique blend of butter, honey, and rum gives a creamy, rich texture.
  • Exotic, layered flavors transport you to a tropical paradise.
  • A true showstopper for guests, perfect for special occasions.
  • A piece of cocktail history with a mysterious, intriguing past.
  • Customizable—play with rum blends and spices to suit your taste.
History & Origin

The Pearl Diver was created in the 1940s by the legendary Donn Beach (Don the Beachcomber), the father of tiki culture. It quickly became a staple at his famous bars, renowned for its secretive 'Pearl Diver’s Mix'—a buttery, spiced honey blend that set it apart from other tropical drinks. For decades, the original recipe was shrouded in mystery, handed down only to trusted bartenders. Today, thanks to cocktail historians, the Pearl Diver has resurfaced as a must-try for anyone passionate about tiki's golden age.

Garnish

A pineapple wedge and fresh mint sprig, which add a bright aroma and visual flair reminiscent of tropical gardens.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 245 calories per serving; contains alcohol, sugars, and fats from the butter. Enjoy responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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