My favorite watering hole at Universal Orlando is, without a doubt, Strong Water Tavern at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. I love the drinks and the small plates, and nothing beats the Tavern Grog. Smooth, yet strong, the Tavern Grog is a great drink to enjoy while relaxing before dinner.
Located in the lobby, the tavern offers a one-of-a-kind cocktail journey with a rum captain and amazing tapas-style dishes. The bar offers indoor seating and a patio overlooking the lagoon with a view of Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The Tavern Grog does the name of the tavern justice—it is strong!
If you are not able to visit Universal Orlando soon, here’s how to make the Tavern Grog from home.
INGREDIENTS
1 lime wedge
1 orange wedge
2 oz. aged rum
1 ½ oz. Demerara Sugar Simple Syrup and Allspice Dram (recipe below)
½ oz. lime juice
½ oz. lemon juice
Garnish: 1 orange slice, 1 cinnamon stick
TAVERN GROG DIRECTIONS
In a mix tin, muddle lime wedge and orange wedge together. Add 2 oz. rum, Demerara Sugar Simple Syrup and Allspice Dram, lime juice, and lemon juice. Cover with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice. Garnish, if desired.
DEMERARA SUGAR SIMPLE SYRUP AND ALLSPICE DRAM: Dissolve 1 cup Demerara sugar in 1 cup warm water in a saucepan over medium heat; bring to a simmer. Add 2 tablespoons allspice berries and cook 5 minutes. Remove from heat and strain syrup through a sieve. Stir in 1 cup aged rum. Cool and let stand at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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