History of The Happy Hour How Did The Cocktail Tradition Begin?

Discover how in 1806 the term “cocktail” was first recorded and how this drink has evolved to become Happy Hour’s highlight.👆🍷

Happy Hour: A Tradition Worth Celebrating

Happy Hour, one of the most anticipated moments of the day, is an opportunity to relax, unwind and enjoy exquisite cocktails in a cozy atmosphere!

Have you ever wondered how this tradition began? Join us on a journey through the history of mixology and discover how Happy Hour became an essential part of the best restaurants offering special drink hours.

Origin of the Term “Cocktail”

The term “cocktail” was first recorded in 1806 in “The Balance and Columbian Repository”, a Hudson, New York, newspaper. It was described as a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters—a definition that closely resembles one of the oldest, most venerable cocktails, the Old Fashioned! Mixing alcoholic beverages with other ingredients, however, was already a common practice in 17th-century Europe, particularly in countries like England and France.

From Prohibition to the Rise of Mixology

During the Prohibition era in the United States, 1920-1933, the production and sale of alcohol was outlawed, leading to the rise of secret bars known as “speakeasies”. To mask the strong taste of bootleg spirits, bartenders began mixing them with juices, syrups, and other ingredients. This not only gave birth to iconic cocktails like the Martini and Manhattan, but also sparked creativity in modern mixology.

Classic Cocktails That Made History

Some cocktails have stood the test of time and remain symbols of mixology:

🍹Old Fashioned: First documented in 1806, it remains one of the most iconic drinks in history.

🍸Dry Martini: Popularized in the 20th century, it became synonymous with elegance and sophistication.

🥃 Manhattan: Created in New York, known for its balance of whiskey, vermouth and bitters.

🍋 Daiquiri: Of Cuban origin, it was a favorite drink of writer Ernest Hemingway.

🍊Negroni: Born in Italy, its combination of gin, vermouth and Campari makes it unmistakable.

Dominican Cocktails That Have Crossed Borders

The Dominican Republic has its own traditional cocktails that have gained popularity worldwide:

🏖️Mamajuana: The national cocktail of the DR, a mix of rum, red wine, honey and infused with roots, barks, and local herbs. It’s popular in Latin American bars across the U.S. and Europe.

🍍Piña Colada (Dominican Version): Made with Dominican rum, such as Brugal or Barcelo,

and fresh coconut instead of canned coconut cream. Often served inside a pineapple at beaches and resorts, giving it a tropical touch.

🍋Santo Libre: A variation of the Cuba Libre, using Dominican rum and instead of cola, lemon-lime soda, Sprite or 7UP. It’s becoming a favorite in Latin bars in New York and Miami.

🍺Presidente (Beer Cocktail): Made with Presidente beer, lime juice, salt and sometimes light ice, this is the Dominican take on the Michelada

🥥Coco Loco: Served directly in a fresh coconut, it’s a mix of rum, coconut cream, condensed milk and ice.

These Dominican cocktails have conquered bars and beaches abroad, especially in cities with a strong Dominican presence, such as New York, Miami and Madrid.

Which is your favorite?

The Evolution of Happy Hour Around the World

The concept of Happy Hour dates back to the U.S. Navy in the 1920s, when sailors would organize recreational activities with drinks before dinner. After World War II, however, Happy Hour gained popularity in bars and restaurants as establishments began offering discounted drinks during cocktail hour in order to attract more customers.

Enjoy Your Happy Hour at Carro Café!