Beach Cocktails: Your Ticket to Year-Round Tropical Vibes (Even from Your Kitchen!), a Review

 

There's so much to love about Beach Cocktails, the fresh new book from Gibbs Smith edited by Allyson Reedy (with beautiful photography by Lauren McDuffie). First off, it's perfectly compact—roughly 5" x 8" and just 144 pages—so it slips effortlessly into a beach bag, tote, or even your kitchen drawer. The sturdy hardcover means it can handle a little sand, sunscreen smudges, or poolside splashes without falling apart. Practical perfection! 

But let's be real: the real magic is inside. I've flipped through countless cocktail books over the years, yet this one had me discovering drinks I'd never even heard of. Picture these gems: Octopus Oasis, Pink Sand Citrus Sunset, Poolside Dragon Fruit Margarita—you get the tropical drift. The recipes are clear, concise, and approachable, with stunning photos that make you want to mix one immediately.

What sets it apart even more? It doesn't stop at drinks. There's a solid lineup of snacks to pair perfectly—think Spicy Baked Plantain Chips, Area 31 Hummus, Jerk-Spiked Chicken Wings, and more. Plus, you'll find essential how-tos for homemade syrups, infusions, and sourcing those hard-to-find tropical ingredients. Frozen libations get their own spotlight (Ninja slushie experiments incoming!), and there's a thoughtful selection of mocktails that feel just as fun and creative—no booze required.

The recipes come straight from top mixologists, bartenders, and iconic spots worldwide—Death & Co, Four Seasons resorts, legendary tiki bars, and beyond. It's like a global vacation in cocktail form, all without leaving home. Classics like Mai Tais, Margaritas, Rum Punch, and Painkillers are here too, elevated with pro tips on techniques, equipment, and infused rums to level up your game.

With a publication date of April 7th, it landed just in time for Mother's Day gifting, summer vibes, or as the ultimate hostess/host present for anyone who loves a good drink (or a great non-alcoholic sip). I'm diving in this afternoon—five o'clock somewhere, right?

If you're craving that umbrella-drink escape, this is your new go-to. Highly recommend!

 

Order your copy here. 

 Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Spooky Cocktails: 100+ Spirited and Wickedly Delicious Drinks by Clair McLafferty, a Review

 

Spooky Cocktails by Clair McLafferty, scheduled for release tomorrow, is a bewitching masterpiece that transforms happy hour into a thrilling witching hour. As someone who once trembled at the thought of Halloween as a shy child, I’ve grown to adore the spooky season, and this book has elevated my love for it to new heights. With over 100 enchanting recipes, this cocktail compendium is a must-have for anyone looking to add a dash of frightful fun to their mixology adventures.

The book is a visual and culinary delight, brimming with creative concoctions like the Witch’s Brew, Black Magic Margarita, Bloody Fang Sangria, Poison Apple Cider, and Crypt Keeper Cooler. Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted, easy to follow, and caters to both novice mixologists and seasoned bartenders. The diversity of drinks is astounding—many of which I’d never encountered before—and every one sounds wickedly delicious and intriguing. From potions to tonics, there’s something for every palate, whether you’re hosting a haunted gathering or sipping solo during a horror movie marathon.

What sets this book apart is its attention to detail. The full-color photography is nothing short of spellbinding, showcasing each drink with eerie elegance. The suggested garnishes, like gummy worms and smoking dry ice cauldrons, add a playful yet macabre flair that’s sure to impress guests. The book’s aesthetic is so captivating that it doubles as a stunning coffee table piece, perfect for year-round display, not just Halloween.

As a seasoned reviewer of cocktail books, including Halloween-specific ones, I can confidently say Spooky Cocktails is unparalleled. Its clever themes, innovative recipes, and gorgeous presentation make it the best in its class. Whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or simply love a good cocktail, this book will inspire you to dust off your cauldron and shake up something wickedly delightful. Highly recommended for ghouls and mixologists alike—this is one potion you’ll want to sip again and again!

You can get your copy here.

Rating: 5/5 Stars

 I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.