Since I can remember, the World Cup has always been a significant highlight in my life. For years, I hosted long watch parties, preparing food and drinks that represented each country playing on match day. While I share the world’s apprehension around the U.S. hosting the tournament this year, I’m determined to enjoy the experience as much as possible.
Chef Oumar Diouf, a former professional footballer from Senegal and head chef at Wyn Wyn in Miami, resonates with this sentiment. He believes that the essence of a great soccer team parallels that of a great meal. “Both require individual talent and the ability to work together towards a common goal,” he says. The World Cup serves as a platform to demonstrate global unity, much like food connects us, transcending language, nationality, and beliefs.
In celebration of this spirit, I’m sharing a selection of cocktails inspired by some World Cup debutantes and underdog nations:
Cape Verde – Atlantic Osprey
Dimitris Roussopoulos, from the Migratory Bar in Portugal, crafted this cocktail to celebrate Cape Verde’s coastal heritage with grogue, the island’s traditional spirit.
- Ingredients:
- 50 ml grogue
- 25 ml fresh lime juice
- 20 ml passion fruit purée
- 15 ml honey syrup
- 20 ml coconut water
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Optional: 5 ml molasses syrup
Shake with ice and double strain into a chilled glass or serve over crushed ice for a relaxed presentation, garnished with a dehydrated lime slice and fresh mint.
Iran – Ajeel
Amir Hajimaleki, chef at Roya in Austin, Texas, summarizes Iranian culture through this cocktail that combines flavors integral to Persian cuisine.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz pistachio and walnut–infused vodka
- 0.5 oz pumpkin seed orgeat
- 0.25 oz golden currant syrup
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 dashes walnut bitters
Shake and strain into a Nick & Nora glass, garnished with an orange twist and a cherry.
Scotland – Atholl Brose
Historical in nature, this cocktail combines Scottish whisky with oat milk and honey, dating back to the 15th century.
- Ingredients:
- 40 ml Port Charlotte 10
- 30 ml oat milk
- 10 ml amaretto
- 15 ml honey syrup
- 10 ml single cream
Blend the whisky and other ingredients in a shaker, chill, and serve garnished with grated nutmeg.
South Korea – Lychee Martini
Yuna Shin uses KHEE premium soju to create this refreshing drink.
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Khee Soju
- 1 oz lychee juice
- 0.5 oz St Germain Elderflower Liqueur
Shake with ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with a lychee.
Haiti – Barbancourt Mai Tai
This energetic drink uses the esteemed Rhum Barbancourt.
- Ingredients:
- 1 part Barbancourt Bhum Blanc
- 1 part Barbancourt 5 Star
- 0.5 part Orange Curacao
- 0.75 part orgeat syrup
- 1 part lime juice
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Combine in a shaker, shake vigorously, and serve in a glass with crushed ice.
Curaçao – Blue Hawaii
Nostalgic and fun, this cocktail is famous in Tiki culture.
- Ingredients:
- 3/4 part vodka
- 1 part white rum
- 1/2 part blue curaçao
- 3 parts pineapple juice
- 3/4 part fresh lime juice
- 1/2 part simple syrup
Shake with ice and serve over crushed ice, garnished with a pineapple wedge and a paper umbrella.
Japan – Cherry Blossom White Negroni
Combining iichiko Shochu with vermouth and Luxardo Bitter, this cocktail reflects Japan’s blend of tradition and modernity.
- Ingredients:
- 1 oz iichiko SEIRIN
- 1 oz Luxardo Bitter Bianco
- 1 oz Mancino Sakura Cherry Blossom Vermouth
Stir together with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Mexico – Torito
This vibrant cocktail showcases the flavors of Mexico.
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Gracias a Dios Piña Mezcal
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- Fresh basil and jalapeño slices for garnish
Shake with ice and serve in a glass rimmed with tortilla salt.
England – Pimm’s Cup
A summer staple, this cocktail is all about refreshment.
- Ingredients:
- 50 ml Pimm’s No. 1
- Ginger ale or sparkling lemonade
- Fresh strawberries and cucumber slices
- Fresh mint
Mix Pimm’s and lemonade over ice, then add strawberries and cucumber, garnishing with fresh mint.
As the World Cup draws fans from around the globe, these cocktails embody not only the spirit of unity but also the celebration of diverse cultures and flavors in our dining experiences. Enjoy responsibly!