The Hotel Nacional cocktail is a classic drink recipe named after Cuba’s famous hotel of the same name.
The hotel sits atop Taganana Hill in Vedado in La Habana and was known to host all sorts of guests. Everyone from famous celebrities like Mary Pickford, politicians and diplomats, and even a less savory crowd like the mob.
The key ingredient in this classic Cuban cocktail is the apricot liqueur, which combines perfectly with the pineapple juice for a big splash of tropical flavors on the palate.

Hotel Nacional
Ingredients
- 2 oz rum
- 1/4 oz apricot liqueur
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake for 10-15 seconds.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a lime wheel.