Washington D.C. is famous for its native cocktail, the Rickey. This classic drink, made with lime juice, carbonated water, and your choice of liquor, has a long and storied history in the District. In fact, in 2011, the Rickey was declared the official native cocktail of D.C., and the month of July was even declared Rickey Month.
The Rickey was invented in the late 19th century by a bartender named George A. Williamson at Shoomaker's, a popular bar in downtown D.C. Legend has it that a lobbyist named Colonel Joe Rickey would frequent the bar and ask for his go-to drink, a bourbon and soda with a twist of lime. Williamson decided to experiment and added the lime juice directly to the drink, creating what is now known as the Rickey.
What makes the Rickey unique is its simplicity. It consists of just a few ingredients: lime juice, carbonated water, and your choice of spirit. While the original Rickey used bourbon, it has since evolved to include variations with gin, vodka, rum, and even tequila. This versatility is one of the reasons why the Rickey has stood the test of time and remains a beloved drink in D.C.
I have had the pleasure of enjoying a Rickey myself at some of the iconic bars in D.C. One of my favorite experiences was at The Gibson, a speakeasy-style bar nestled in the U Street Corridor. The bartenders there are true artisans, and their attention to detail is evident in every drink they make. The Rickey I had at The Gibson was made with gin, and the flavors of the lime juice and carbonation perfectly complemented the botanicals of the gin. It was a refreshing and crisp drink, perfect for a hot summer day in the city.
Another memorable Rickey experience was at the Round Robin Bar in the historic Willard InterContinental hotel. This bar has a rich history and has been a gathering place for politicians, diplomats, and celebrities for over a century. Sipping on a Rickey at the Round Robin Bar felt like stepping back in time and experiencing a piece of D.C. history.
The popularity of the Rickey in D.C. extends beyond just the drink itself. It has inspired a sense of community and celebration in the city. Every July, D.C. residents and visitors come together to celebrate Rickey Month, a month-long celebration of this beloved cocktail. Bars and restaurants across the city create their own unique variations of the Rickey, showcasing the creativity and talent of D.C.'s vibrant cocktail scene.
The Rickey is the famous drink of Washington D.C. This classic cocktail, with its simple yet refreshing combination of lime juice, carbonated water, and your choice of spirit, has become a symbol of the city's history and community. Whether enjoyed at a historic bar or a trendy speakeasy, the Rickey is a must-try for anyone visiting D.C. and a beloved drink for locals.