Zodiac Cocktails: How Astrology Entered the Drinks Scene

We’ve all seen infographics on social media – your zodiac sign as a snackone sandwichone cocktail. But while no one (yet) has designed an entire restaurant around celestial games, zodiac-themed cocktails are increasingly popular. From guest appearances on regular cocktail menus to being at the core concept of a bar, everyone is suddenly interested in creating and enjoying drinks inspired by Aries, Libra, and Virgo sensibilities.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that astrology has been a huge pop culture trend in recent years, encompassing everything from podcasts to dating. Sharing your Co-Star astrological profile is as common as exchanging phone numbers.

It was only a matter of time before cocktails entered the mix. “This trend is, in my opinion, a response to global upheaval and uncertainty,” says astrologer Danielle Mainas, co-creator of the food-based tarot deck Cacio e Pepe Tarot. “People turn to astrology for personalized guidance and self-understanding in confusing times. Likewise, in times of dysregulation, many people turn to alcohol and food as coping mechanisms for comfort and relief. Why not give people a combined option?”

Little Bear, a self-described “astrologically themed immersive bar” opening in New York City in April 2024. Inside, beneath a digital display of a starry sky, diners can order drinks categorized into the four elements: waterfire, air and earth, with each cocktail paraphrasing a zodiac sign. THE The grounded cocktail, which refers to the sign of Taurus, features shiitake-infused mezcal and mushroom broth, symbolizing Taurus’ stable, earthy, grounded energy. Each cocktail on the menu is accompanied by a short synopsis explaining the logic behind its creation.

“Our team loves astrology and has a good understanding of it,” Little Dipper co-owner Bobby Papachryssanthou told Observer. Staff ask guests for their license plates and also share theirs, recommending drinks accordingly. For in the first round, customers are encouraged to try their “own” cocktail – that is, the drink associated with their sun sign and, for a second drink, a drink that refers to their moon sign; the position of the moon in the zodiac at the time of a person’s birth.

The cocktails were created with the help of Alyssa Sartor, a hospitality expert and passionate aboutr astrology. Sartor helped connect the dots, consulting on ingredients and drink profiles based on your knowledge of mixology and astrology. The team also sought advice from astrologer friends and astrology books..

“We felt a concept like this would be a great way to offer our guests something personal that they can relate to,” says Papachryssanthou. “The time and effort put into finding the right ingredients for each specific zodiac sign makes the experience immersive, adding that level of personalization and immersive aspect.” Imagine, for example, a Pisces client being offered strong tequila and habanero-infused Magic cocktail, not because he likes tequila, but because he is supposedly “strong and dedicated,” Papachryssanthou points out. It goes without saying that only the positive and flattering traits of each sign are amplified and highlighted in the ingredient list.

Other bars in the US also flirt with the zodiac concept. Service bar in Washington, DC – one of the best bars in the country according to the 50 best in the world—recently launched a limited edition zodiac themed offer. Even resorts want to get in on the trend — Under Canvas, dedicated to high-end camping and glamping, recently launched a program that combines celestial-themed cocktails with stargazing

The Alchemists’ Gardena bar in Paso Robles, CA, recently added a monthly zodiac-themed drink to its already out-of-this-world menu, based on the astrological sign corresponding to each monthfor which the team delved into the essence of astrology: our desire for meaning and a sense of direction. “One of the oldest methods of navigation was based on the stars and their astrological positioning,” Tony Bennett, manager and owner of the Alchemists’ Garden bar, told the Observer.

To plan the monthly cocktail party, Bennett turns to a chart he made with the characteristics, likes and dislikes of each sign. For Libra, a cocktail that took place in late September and most of October, Bennet took advantage of the fact that Libra coincides with the autumnal equinox, which meant paying homage to the last harvests of summer as we move into the later months. cold. . The result contains vodka with dill seeds, herbal liqueur and agave nectar.

The garnish, molecular air made from fresh rose petals and italic bergamot, pays homage to the fact that Libra is an air sign. “The drink, like Libra’s symbol – the scales – is surprisingly balanced, despite the complex nature of the flavors contained within it,” he says.

Tiger and Peacock, located at The Memphian hotel in Memphis, TN, has had an in-depth Signs of the Zodiac cocktail menu since opening in 2021. FFood and beverage director Evan Potts is also inspired by the signs’ key features. Sagittarius, for example, is known for being adventurous and curious; The bar’s way of incorporating these characteristics was to base a cocktail on Angostura Bitters. “Most cocktails contain a few drops of Angostura to accentuate the cocktail, while we choose to release all the flavor and incorporate an ounce into our drink. After finishing with Chinola and orgeat you have a bold and interesting cocktail, with flavors that develop and change as you explore,” says Potts.

“Astrology and the good energy of the stars is something we all need, with the stresses of life and relationships,” says Papachryssanthou. “Associating great drinks with something we believe is important to everyday life adds another level to the experience.”

But are these drinks just a gimmick? Like astrology itself, it’s all a matter of perspective. “I absolutely see the potential for zodiac-inspired cocktails to offer more than just a faux drinking experience,” says Mainas. “Astrology reflects the human experience, and when bars incorporate zodiac themes, they invite guests into a moment of ceremony and presence.” Cocktails that go beyond the visual work best, with ingredients that reflect the signs’ features and overall vibe—painting the bartender’s trusty question: “What are you in the mood for?” in a completely new light.