LUPEC Tiki Bash

by April Paffrath

We talk a lot about food here. Food is what we love. So often, people assume that means everything on your plate but, it also means what's in your glass. So far the drinks aspect of our food love has been woefully underrepresented. No more.

I love events that showcase culinary talents and farmers and producers, especially local ones, because I am constantly floored by the commitment to awesomeness that the New England scene has. Events that showcase that amazing depth are great chances to share new experiences, tastes and ideas. Often, there an opportunity to do some good, too.

With that in mind, I know what you should put on your calendar this weekend. I'm crushed that I can't make it, but surely some of you will go there in my stead (go! go!). Perhaps even Cynthia or Genevieve (in which case I want a full report and photos).

LUPEC Boston (that's "Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails, naturally) is hosting TIKI BASH, it's 3rd annual fall fundraiser. This year it's a 1950s tiki theme with retro cocktails, demos from Boston's star bartenders, ukulele performances, and a burlesque act, along with other hula enjoyments. Food will feature cocktail fare by chefs from Toro, Myers + Chang, Green Street, Island Creek Oysters, and more. Oh, and the roller-skating gals passing out Taza chocolate? Those are the Boston Derby Dames. How can you not want to dress up and pretend you're in a tropical paradise? There are just so many reasons to love LUPEC Boston.

The Tiki Bash is at the Villa Victoria Center for the Arts on Saturday, November 14, from 7-11pm. Tickets are $35 in advance and $45 at the door. You can buy the tickets online until tomorrow at midnight.

The fundraiser benefits Cambridge-based On the Rise, which supports women dealing with crisis and homelessness. See? Good treats and helping a great cause while having a wild, tiki time.

A burlesque performance is part of the evening's retro entertainment.
photo: C. Fernsebner, Bostonist.com

Want to keep the party going after the tiki bash has ended? Of course you do! LUPEC's own Kitty gave me some perfect recipes to share with you. Use some of New England's great local spirits, like Triple Eight Distillery or Berkshire Mountain Distillers (my local fave).

Mai Tai
Adapted from Trader Vic's Bartender's Guide, revised by Victor Bergeron

• 1 oz dark rum
• 1 oz light rum
• 1/2 oz curacao
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• 1/4 oz orgeat
• 1 oz lime juice                           

Shake with ice and strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a lime wheel, a mint sprig and, if possible, an exotic orchid.

The Fog Cutter
Adapted from Trader Vic's Bartender's Guide, revised by Victor Bergeron

• 2 oz light rum
• 1 oz brandy
• 1/2 oz gin
• 2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz orange juice
• 1/2 oz orgeat
• 1/2 oz sweet sherry

Shake all ingredients except sherry with ice cubes. Pour into 14-ounce glass. Add more ice cubes. Float 1/2 ounce of sherry on top. Serve with straws.


These are all best enjoyed while listening to ukulele music. That bit of tropical delight as we slide from fall toward winter is a magic thing.