The Los Angeles RAMS (Rachael, Andrew, Matt, Stephen)

After our return from Mai Tai paradise and a few days back at the old grind, Ellie and I were treated to special birthday surprise cocktails during our celebration with friends. The news of the festive Mai Tai was dropped during a game of Codenames Pictures (another surprise), though I did not know what the drink would entail. I knew that our buddies have been closely following the Expedition, so they would have a good idea of the trends that my highly acclaimed MTs follow. After our game, we were asked to play some Cap'n Toad while the secret concoctions were made. After a few minutes of surprisingly silent (apart from the occasional blender whirl) Toading, the lights were dimmed and our birthday drinks were brought over.

 

The presentation was well thought out and flawless. The Mai Tai was served in a hollowed pineapple with the most complete assortment of garnishes I've had: a full pineapple ring, maraschino cherries, a paper umbrella, a lit candle, and even an unexpected poofy flamingo straw. The ice, while having holes through the center, was crystal clear. No expense was spared for this delightful display. 

I took my first sip and was greeted by the tropical island taste sensation of a good Mai Tai. The flavor profile was spot on. I noticed initially that, while the drink certainly had the required rum-ness of a good Mai Tai, there was a distinct and tasty pineapple element. I later learned that this was one of the secret ingredients: freshly pulped and juiced pineapple. The pineapple juice really stood out as exceptional compared to those used in previous bars' Mai Tais's and really gave the drink a solid platform on which to stand. Another key feature, I went on to learn, that was unique to this specific Mai Tai was that it used amaretto in place of the traditional orgeat syrup. While I am not experienced enough with these to taste the difference in their flavors, I do understand and appreciate the importance of a Mai Tai's subtle almond notes. The drink, though containing a good amount of rum in addition to the amaretto, was smooth to drink. It had a pleasant blend of strength and sweetness that made for a crisp afternoon refreshment.

 9/10

 

Ellie's Corner

We were so surprised and excited to receive special custom tropical drinks for our birthdays! I've never had a candle stuck in a drink before but it was amazing, mine even had a cool pink-blue flame. My lava flow was delicious, with an extra hint of banana I haven't had before but very much enjoyed. I loved the straws and the umbrellas and the fruit and the coconut, it was all perfect. Eric's Mai Tai was great, although trying to switch back and forth between the sweet and the rummy was difficult, as usual. Also had a great shabu shabu dinner and received Codenames: Pictures, so all-in-all it was a great day.  

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