About the Hurricane cocktail

The Hurricane cocktail is one of the most famous drinks to come out of New Orleans, born at Pat O’Brien’s bar in the French Quarter during the 1940s.

At the time, whiskey was scarce due to wartime rationing, but rum was plentiful. Distributors required bars to buy rum in bulk if they wanted to secure other spirits, so bartenders had to get creative.

The result was the Hurricane — a bold mix of light and dark rums, citrus juice, and passion fruit syrup, originally served in a curved, hurricane-lamp-shaped glass.

It quickly became a symbol of Mardi Gras festivities and remains a tourist favorite, though well-made versions at cocktail bars elevate it beyond the sugary street renditions.

What Makes the Hurricane Cocktail Special

The Hurricane is tropical, bold, and unapologetically strong. Unlike many tiki-style cocktails, it doesn’t hide the rum — it celebrates it.

The pairing of passion fruit syrup with fresh citrus creates a sweet-tart base that balances the punch of multiple rums.

Served in its namesake glass, the Hurricane isn’t just a drink — it’s a spectacle. Its bright red-orange hue and towering garnish make it instantly recognizable and festive.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

• Use aged Jamaican rum for extra funk and depth.

• Swap passion fruit syrup for passion fruit purée if you want a fresher, tarter flavor.

• A dash of grenadine can boost color and sweetness if your syrup is more tart than sweet.

For food pairings, Hurricanes are natural companions to Creole and Cajun dishes — think jambalaya, blackened fish, or crawfish étouffée.

The cocktail’s fruity backbone also pairs nicely with spicy barbecue or jerk chicken.

Why the Hurricane Endures

The Hurricane isn’t a delicate sipper — it’s a party in a glass. It captures the energy of New Orleans and the carefree spirit of Mardi Gras.

Whether enjoyed on Bourbon Street or at home for a themed gathering, it’s a cocktail that instantly sets the mood for celebration.