As you wander through Thailand’s vibrant cities and picturesque beaches, there’s no better way to cap off the day than with a refreshing glass of authentic Thai cocktail. The country is famous for its stunning landscapes, bustling nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisine that combines sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. With such bold flavors, it’s no surprise that Thai cocktails have gained worldwide recognition.
From classic drinks like the Bangkok Gin & Tonic to more adventurous concoctions like the Thai-Inspired Basil Margarita with Spicy Thai Bitters, there’s a drink for every taste bud. Thai culture is reflected in its drinks, which often draw inspiration from different influences and blend unique flavors that complement the country’s culinary identity.
If you’re eager to try these exotic libations at home, we’ve curated a list of 35 mouth-watering Thai cocktails that are sure to transport your senses to the tropics. Whether you’re looking for crisp lagers, fruity and sweet beverages, or classic drinks with a Thai twist, this collection has something for everyone. So grab some friends, fire up the blender, and get ready to toast to the flavors of Thailand – perfect for sipping on those balmy tropical evenings.
Thai-Inspired Vodka Cocktail
Vodka cocktails are a classic blend of sparkling water, simple syrup, and vodka, with the added freshness of mint leaves. To take it to the next level and infuse it with Thai flair, consider adding Kaffir lime leaf, Thai basil leaves, bird’s eye chili, and a squeeze of lime juice. The resulting concoction is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for serving at gatherings, parties, or even casual brunches.
Bangkok Gin & Tonic
Elevate the timeless Gin and Tonic by infusing it with the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. Our Bangkok Gin and Tonic recipe adds a surprising twist with the inclusion of Thai Basil, transporting this classic cocktail to a refreshing and revitalizing realm. The subtle hints of mint only add to the drink’s allure, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or anytime you crave a light, tasty, and rejuvenating beverage.
Thai Lemongrass Margarita
Elevate your beverage game with this unconventional yet refreshing Thai Lemongrass Margarita, perfect for sipping on a warm day or pairing with savory dishes at a summer brunch. The infusion of Thai basil, ginger, and fresh lemongrass creates a unique flavor profile that diverges from the classic margarita’s traditional taste. The spicy kick from the ginger is balanced by the subtle herbal notes of the lemongrass and Thai basil, which harmonize beautifully with tequila.
For an added touch of sweetness, consider adding natural agave nectar to create a delightful twist on this already intriguing cocktail.
My Thai
Building upon the classic Mai Tai recipe, My Thai takes a bold step by incorporating rum as its primary spirit. To further emphasize its Thai inspiration, this variation incorporates Thai chili peppers and Grand Marnier for an added depth of flavor. The addition of almond and rose water syrup provides a sweet and floral contrast to the spicy heat brought forth by the chili peppers.
To balance out the flavors, coconut milk is employed, effectively tempering some of the chili pepper’s fiery warmth. As such, this refreshing cocktail is well-suited for gatherings and social events on your patio, where its unique blend of spices and tropical flavors can be fully appreciated.
Thai Style Bourbon & Ginger Cocktail
Indulge in the bold flavors of Thailand with this delectable Bourbon and Ginger Cocktail, perfect for sipping alongside your favorite Thai dishes or as a warming pick-me-up on chilly evenings. The addition of infused gin and fresh citrus juice elevates this drink to new heights, offering a unique twist on traditional bourbon-based cocktails.
Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail
As the mercury rises on a sweltering summer afternoon, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail. This delightful concoction combines the cooling effects of cucumber with the spicy kick of peppers and the freshness of minty Thai basil, all perfectly balanced for a satisfyingly slow burn at the finish.
Sabai Sabai Cocktail
The Sabai Sabai Cocktail, also known as the Thai welcome drink, boasts Mekhong, a distinct liquor native to Thailand. This refreshing concoction bears a striking resemblance to the John Collins, allowing for versatile serving options – whether you prefer it served short and on the rocks or tall and ice-cold. The subtle infusion of Thai basil adds a delightful contrast to the sweet and tangy flavors, elevating this drink to a truly unique experience.
Thai Basil Gimlet
The star of this unique gimlet recipe is Thai basil, which adds a surprising depth to the drink’s flavor profile. When combined with the brightness of fresh lime and the subtle sweetness of elderflower liqueur, the result is a complex concoction with hints of anise. While you can use either gin or vodka as the base spirit, we find that the botanical notes in the cocktail are perfectly complemented by the former, creating a truly special sipping experience.
Mekong
In a nod to Thai culture, the Mekong spirit has earned the nickname ‘Spirit of Thailand’. This locally-produced concoction boasts a smooth and mellow flavor profile, subtly infused with herbal nuances and undertones of warm vanilla. The result is a harmonious blend that showcases the country’s rich heritage and mastery of craft distillation.
Creamy Coconut Lime Mojito
Indulge in the exotic flavors of Creamy Coconut Lime Mojito, where the sweetness of simple syrup and the zest of Kaffir lime leaves transport you to a tropical paradise. This luscious cocktail is sure to become your go-to drink for beachside gatherings or pool parties, thanks to its harmonious blend of lime juice, coconut cream, and Kaffir lime syrup – a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving another sip.
Lemongrass & Thai Basil Mojito
Indulge in the zesty and refreshing Lemongrass and Thai Basil Mojito, where the combination of lemongrass syrup and Thai basil creates an exotic flavor profile. For added depth, substitute lemongrass stalks for the syrup if you prefer a fresher taste. To assemble this revitalizing cocktail, add Thai basil leaves and lime slices to a glass, muddle them together, then pour in simple syrup, rum, and ice. Complete the drink with a creamy flourish by topping it off with a coconut milk club.
Thai Ginger Punch
For those who crave the essence of Hawaiian Punch, this indulgent adult twist is sure to satisfy. A masterful blend of flavors strikes a perfect harmony, effortlessly navigating the fine line between fruity and sweet notes.
Thai Lemonade
Indulge in the zesty charm of Thai Lemonade, where the sweet and sour notes of lemonade meld with the aromatic essence of Thai Basil. This revitalizing drink is best enjoyed over ice, garnished with a splash of club soda or sparkling water to create a delightful effervescence.
Thai Red Chile-Peppercorn Cocktail
This Thai Red Chile-Peppercorn Cocktail reimagines the classic The Bee’s Knees formula by substituting traditional honey with a unique Thai red chile-white peppercorn simple syrup. This innovative twist yields a complex flavor profile that harmoniously blends spicy, sweet, tart, and bitter notes. When sipped, the drink presents a smooth texture that culminates in an unforgettable aftertaste and lingering buzz.
Summer Thai Martini
Elevate your martini game by introducing an unconventional twist: infusing it with Thai Wok Oil and fragrant Thai basil. This unexpected combination harmonizes remarkably well with the lemongrass and garlic undertones, culminating in a sublime balance of savory botanicals that’s rounded off by the earthy freshness of the basil.
Thai Mango Martini
Blending the essence of tropical freshness, this Thai Mango Martini recipe combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the crispness of vodka and dry vermouth, crafting an unforgettable cocktail experience. By using only the freshest ingredients, this drink is perfect for serving to your guests on any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration.
Thai Tea White Chocolate Martini
For those with a penchant for all things sweet, this martini variant is sure to delight. By marrying the rich, velvety flavors of Thai tea and white chocolate with the silky smoothness of vodka, we’ve created a decadent treat that’s perfect for sipping after dinner. Whether you’re looking to cap off a meal or simply indulge in a little something special, this cocktail is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Thai Basil & Kumquat Mojitos
This classic mojito recipe strikes the ideal harmony between sweet and tangy notes, courtesy of its precise blend of sugar, lime, and peppermint. As you take a sip, the refreshing flavors meld together seamlessly, gliding down your throat with ease. The union of mint and lime juice yields a vibrant and revitalizing cocktail that’s perfect for sipping poolside or at an outdoor gathering.
Spicy Thai Lemongrass Ginger Margarita
Indulge in the tantalizing fusion of Thai Lemongrass Ginger Margarita, where the bold essence of lemongrass and ginger mingle with the zest of Thai spices, crafting a truly unforgettable drinking experience. As you sip this exotic concoction, its warming effects will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to dance the night away with friends.
Frozen Thai Margarita
What makes Frozen Thai Margarita truly stand out is its unique ability to bring together contrasting elements – the bold, spicy flavors of Thailand and the refreshing coolness of frozen drinks. This margarita’s spicy kick, courtesy of Thai chili-infused simple syrup, provides a thrilling contrast to sweet desserts or creamy dishes, making it an exciting addition to any meal.
Bangkok Margarita
The Bangkok Margarita is a unique blend of pineapple juice, tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau. A dash of Thai chili adds a layer of complexity, balancing out the sweetness with a subtle smokiness and spicy kick. This bold cocktail is defined by its tangy citrus flavor profile, evoking the exotic and sophisticated essence of Bangkok itself.
Watermelon Thai Basil Fresca
Combining the sweetness of watermelon juice with the crispness of vodka and the subtle freshness of Thai basil, Watermelon Thai Basil Fresca is a refreshing concoction perfect for quenching your thirst on a sweltering summer day or sipping by the pool
Thai Basil Daiquiri
Combining the bold flavors of Thailand with the classic daiquiri recipe, this unique variation features a blend of Thai basil, rum, and fresh lime juice. The resulting cocktail is a masterclass in contrasting flavors, marrying salty, spicy, and tangy notes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. And with just the right amount of rum to keep things interesting, you can be sure to enjoy this drink without worrying about losing control.
Aroi Mak Mak
Aroi Mak Mak, a Thai-inspired sake cocktail, harmoniously blends the subtle flavors of lemongrass and coconut milk to create a light and refreshing drink. The delicate taste of the sake is elevated by the spicy warmth of ginger, the creamy richness of coconut milk, the mellow coolness of cucumber, and the tangy zest of lemongrass, resulting in a truly unique and captivating beverage.
Coconut Thai Mar-TEA-ni
While traditional Thai ice tea recipes rely on sweetened condensed milk for its rich flavor, a twist can be achieved by substituting this with sweetened coconut milk. This creamy swap imparts a subtle nutty and milky undertone to the drink, offering a unique and intriguing taste experience.
Thai Cocojito
Inspired by the idyllic beach shacks of Koh Lanta, Thailand, the Thai Cocojito cocktail perfectly captures the essence of this tropical paradise. The island’s lush landscape, where fresh coconuts and succulent fruits grow in abundance, is reflected in every aspect of this refreshing drink.
With its creamy texture and revitalizing flavor profile, the Thai Cocojito is the ultimate embodiment of a sun-kissed day spent lounging on the beach, transporting you to a state of relaxed bliss with each sip.
Coconut Blurry Curry Cocktail
The Coconut Blurry Curry Cocktail is an innovative concoction that harmoniously blends the richness of curry’s savory texture with the sweetness and creamy essence of coconut. This intriguing combination creates a unique drinking experience. To serve, pour the mixture into daiquiri glasses and complete the tropical presentation by garnishing it with fresh basil leaves.
Thai-Inspired Basil Margarita With Spicy Thai Bitters
What sets this Thai-Inspired Basil Margarita apart is its unique blend of ingredients, which combines the classic trio of lime, tequila, and agave syrup with the subtle flavors of Thai basil and fiery bitters. The result is a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy notes, achieved by muddling the fresh Thai basil into the drink. To further enhance the flavor profile, simply add a pinch of salt around the glass rim before serving.
This delightful twist on the traditional margarita offers a refreshing and invigorating drinking experience that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Spicy Thai Chile Paloma
The original Paloma is a timeless classic, combining grapefruit and tequila for a refreshing twist. However, this rendition takes things to the next level by introducing some unexpected surprises. The Spicy Thai Chile Paloma is born from a unique blend of Thai chiles, tequila, lime juice, and fresh grapefruit, resulting in a bold fusion of flavors that tantalize the palate and eyes alike.
Thai Summer Breeze
The Thai Summer Breeze is a refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness of pineapple chunks with the tanginess of orange juice and the warmth of rum. This fruity, sour, and excellent drink is perfect for hot summer days when you need something to quench your thirst while out enjoying brunch or other outdoor activities.
Dotted Thai Fruit Cocktail
The Dotted Thai Fruit Cocktail is a visually stunning concoction that combines basil seeds, coconut milk, gin, mango, rosewater, pomegranate juice, and Thai fruit agar dessert mix. This unique blend not only tantalizes the taste buds but also sparks imagination with its kaleidoscope of colors and textures. For adventurous mixologists, this cocktail is a great way to experiment with different recipes and showcase their creativity through innovative presentation.
Thai Piña Colada
Elevate the timeless Piña Colada to new heights by incorporating the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. Introduce a splash of coconut liqueur for added richness, complemented by the subtle brightness of Kaffir lime leaves. For an unexpected kick, add a dash of chili peppers to create a delightful harmony of sweet and spicy notes. The aromatic warmth of lemongrass will further enhance this tropical getaway in a glass, ensuring that every sip is nothing short of irresistible.
Coconut & Thai Mango Vermouth
Crafting a refreshing Coconut and Thai Mango Vermouth cocktail is a breeze, perfect for impressing your friends at any gathering. Despite its foundation as a robust spirit, the harmonious blend of coconut and mango flavors expertly counterbalances the strong liquor, creating a delightful drink that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re hosting a party, unwinding during happy hour, or savoring it by the pool on a sweltering day, this vermouth-based concoction is an excellent choice for any occasion.
Thai Basil & Cucumber Gin Cocktail
Infusing Thai Basil and Cucumber Gin Cocktail with a refreshing twist, this delightful concoction bursts with bright, zesty flavors. By incorporating sparkling water into the recipe, you’ll achieve a lively effervescence that elevates the drink to new heights. What’s more, the simplicity of this cocktail makes it an accessible treat for any occasion, requiring no specialized bar tools and allowing for spontaneous serving at your leisure.
Thai Tom Collins
Sweetness and aromatic notes abound in this Thai-inspired twist on the classic Tom Collins cocktail. As the perfect finale to a lively evening, garnish it with the fragrant leaves of Thai basil for an unforgettable experience.
The bottom line
Indulge in the bold flavors of Thailand with not only its mouthwatering dishes, but also its refreshing cocktails. Without leaving your kitchen, you can recreate authentic Thai recipes and experience the thrill of local ingredients without traveling to rural areas. For a harmonious pairing, discover our curated lists: 18 Fantastic Thai Appetizers, 13 BEST Thai Soups, 17 BEST Thai Sides, and 23 BEST Thai Sweet Treats.
And, to quench your thirst, we’ve collected an impressive 35 Thai cocktails you can easily whip up at home for your next summer gathering! Print
