Ordering a Long Island Iced Tea? Bartenders might be raising a red flag!
The infamous Long Island Iced Tea has a reputation that can make any bartender’s blood run cold. Its potent mix of multiple spirits can lead many to their doom—intoxication with a side of chaos. Bartenders reveal why this cocktail is a telltale sign of party-goers ready to drink heavily.
The Notorious Cocktail
What makes the Long Island Iced Tea so dangerous? The cocktail combines vodka, tequila, light rum, triple sec, and gin—a potent blend that quickly raises the risk of intoxication. One sip might make you feel good, but that feeling can turn into an overwhelming buzz faster than you realize. Industry professionals have noted that people ordering this drink are often looking for a shortcut to inebriation.
Take it from Morgan Robison, a beverage director at Wenwen: "For the most part, it is for people who are here to drink and think, 'This is the fastest way to get to where I'm going.'" That destination? Typically blackout drunk.
The Bartender's Perspective
Many bartenders have similar sentiments about the Long Island Iced Tea. Marisol Delarosa, a managing partner at the NYC bar Brass Monkey, states, "No one is ordering a Long Island Iced Tea because they like the way it tastes. The person [ordering] wants to black out and will probably be loud and obnoxious about getting to that state of drunkenness." When bartenders hear someone ordering this cocktail, they are often trained to observe the situation closely. Security personnel may be summoned, for it’s not unusual for patrons who indulge in this drink to become rowdy.
Recognizing the Signs
How do bartenders read their customers based on their drink choices? When the Long Island Iced Tea is involved, it acts as a flashing caution sign. The industry believes that this drink is often ordered by those prepared to indulge heavily, signaling a desire to maximize their intoxication rate. Here are some common indicators that bartenders might notice:
- Quick, repeated orders for the Long Island Iced Tea
- Loud or disruptive behavior shortly after drinking it
- Reports of patrons needing to be escorted out or into a cab
Not Worth the Risk
Few bartenders appreciate crafting this particular drink, mainly due to the complicated recipe and the cleanup involved afterward. Many mixologists feel it’s a recipe for disaster that could lead to serious consequences. Jamie Robinson, a former bartender, expressed her disapproval of the drink, saying, "You’re likely only going to order one or two unless you plan on ending up on the floor at some point during the evening." The multiple liquor ingredients make it less about enjoyment and more about the sheer volume of alcohol.
A Call to Practice Moderation
Though the Long Island Iced Tea may seem appealing for its promise of a quick buzz, understanding its implications could save you from a night of regret. Most bartenders warn against it not because it tastes bad, but because it can lead to a loss of control. When people order this cocktail with the intent of getting intoxicated quickly, bartenders gear up for potentially disruptive behavior.
Instead of the Long Island Iced Tea, consider cocktails that offer a similar festive spirit but with less alcohol content, like a mojito or a spritz. This way, you can still have a great time without the risk of excessive intoxication. With so many delicious options available, there’s no shortage of drinks that balance the fun without sending you straight to blackout territory.
Conclusion: Make Savvy Choices
The next time you’re at a bar, take a moment to think about what you’re ordering. While the Long Island Iced Tea may have its allure, consider how your choice reflects your intentions for the night. Are you looking for fun and social interactions, or are you ready to dive headfirst into intoxication? The latter might lead to unintended consequences, both for you and those around you.
Ultimately, the world of cocktails offers so much more than just the Long Island Iced Tea. Exploring different options can keep your night enjoyable while ensuring that you, and the bartenders serving you, remain safe. Cheers to making conscious and stylish drink choices!