Stopping by Santa Monica’s Casa del Mar— the decadent hotel by the sea— for a quick drink with friends sounds like an ideal holiday gathering. But you’ve perhaps decided to invite everyone over for an ugly sweater party. Maybe you’re hammering down the details for an exquisite Christmas Eve bash.
Thankfully, Casa del Mar still has you covered. When it comes time to whip up some impressive cocktails, look to the experts. The hotel has a number of spirited beverage recipes that are festive and are varied enough to meet the expectations of any guest. Welcome your guests with a special take on the ever-popular espresso martini or opt for something a little more sour— they’ll be set with a delicious cocktail no matter what.
By trusting the spirits knowledge of Casas del Mar, you are investing in a wealth of smarts from one of Santa Monica’s most storied hotels. Originally built in 1926, it has a history of serving as the playground for Hollywood’s A-listers and continues to be one of the most well-appointed resorts of Southern California.
The beachfront escape sprawls across 129 rooms, of which 17 are suites, and includes the eco-minded Sea Wellness Spa and the private, guest-only Palm Terrace Pool. More importantly, Casa del Mar offers a number of luxury dining options that feature a premier L.A. seafood restaurant experience and nightly live music. The hotel houses Catch, in addition to the Cabana Lounge and Terrazza Lounge and Beachside Patio.
See below for four full cocktail recipes from Casa del Mar.
SPICED ESPRESSO MARTINI
2 oz. Tito’s
2 oz. espresso
.5 oz. kahlua pumpkin
Splash caramel and chocolate syrup
Garnish Winter seasoning on half of glass
LEMON MERINGUE MARTINI
2 oz. limoncello
.75 oz. kettle citron
1.25 oz. lemonade
1 oz. heavy cream or half and half
Garnish bay leaf and or lemon wheel
SEASONAL SOUR
2 oz. Makers mark
1 oz. lemon juice
.5 oz. simple Syrup
Float pessimist wine
Garnish luxardo and apple slice
WINTER HIGHBALL
2 oz. Tito’s
2 oz. ginger beer
2 oz. cranberry
Garnish Powdered sugar thyme with dried fruit wheel