The origins of the drink Southside have long been a topic of speculation and debate among cocktail enthusiasts. While there is no definitive answer, there are a few theories that have been proposed.
One theory suggests that the drink gets its name from the South Side district of the city of Chicago, Illinois. This theory stems from the idea that the Southside cocktail was popularized during the Prohibition era, a time when Chicago's South Side was notorious for its speakeasies and gangsters. It is believed that the Southside cocktail may have been the preferred beverage of Al Capone and his gang, who dominated the South Side of Chicago during that time.
Another theory suggests that the Southside cocktail derives its name from the Southside Sportsmen's Club on Long Island, New York. This theory suggests that the drink was popularized by the club in the early 20th century and eventually gained popularity in other parts of the country.
Regardless of its origins, the Southside cocktail is a classic drink that has stood the test of time. It is typically made with gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves, which are muddled together and then shaken with ice. The resulting cocktail is refreshing and citrusy, with a hint of herbal notes from the mint.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of enjoying a Southside cocktail on several occasions. One particular memory that stands out is a warm summer evening spent at a rooftop bar in Chicago. The bartender skillfully prepared the drink, taking care to muddle the mint leaves just enough to release their aromatic oils without overpowering the other flavors. The result was a perfectly balanced cocktail that was both refreshing and flavorful.
The true origins of the Southside cocktail may forever remain a mystery. Whether it was named after Chicago's South Side or the Southside Sportsmen's Club on Long Island, one thing is clear – this drink has a rich history and continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.