3 Show-Stopping Cocktails from Broadway’s Biggest Shows

Give my regards to … the bar!

For many years, theater concessions were an afterthought with audience members maybe ordering up a simple glass of wine, or a beer, to pair with the show. (Don’t forget the pretzels and candy.) But in recent times, Broadway has gone boozy.

Sure, there may be show-stopping numbers on stage, but at many theaters around New York City, their concessions-game has become just as exciting. Now, Broadway is awash in bespoke cocktails worthy of the city’s finest cocktail oases.

This year is no exception, with a bevy of Tony-nominated shows and long-running classics boasting a unique array of cocktails. Take for example, cult-favorite Titanique and its frozen blue Heart of the Ocean cocktail which mimics the film’s iconic jewel. Or a sidecar variation in honor of ABBA revival of Chess.

In celebration of TONY season (with the awards unfolding June 7), here are some standing ovation-worthy cocktails from four of Broadway’s biggest shows.

The show: Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

It’s a love letter to New York, sung through two normal folks who form an unlikely bond. The uniquely-titled Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) depicts the two main characters doing just that but as the story unfolds over 48 hours, it becomes much more than a dessert delivery. The show, which began in the UK courtesy creative forces Kit Buchan and Jim Barne, has since become a Broadway sensation and TONY darling, garnering 8 nominations this year, including Best Musical.

The cocktail: Penthouse Sweet

In the show, there’s a moment where let’s say the characters are having a little too much fun at a luxury hotel and wake up bleary-eyed the next morning. It’s a moment that became the inspiration for the aptly named Penthouse Sweet (and yes, the suite-switch in the title is on purpose). Helmed by bar manager Austin Zeno, he regularly slings the fruity drink to thirsty revelers on their own New York City adventures.

• 1 ½ oz Malibu Rum
• ¾ oz Pineapple juice
• ¾ oz shot soda

Preparation: Combine with ice and pour into a rocks glass.

The show: Chess

Checkmate! Nominated for a slew of Tony Awards, including Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for Nicholas Christopher’s memorable role, Chess is a show perfect for all you dancing queens out there. That’s because its music comes from ABBA, while the lyrics and book come from Broadway powerhouse Tim Rice (Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita).

Its unique story is set during the height of the Cold War, with the game of chess serving as a proxy for the troubles between the USSR and the United States. Throw in fellow theatrical powerhouse Aaron Tveit and the stage and screen star Lea Michelle who round out its love-triangle cast and you have one of the buzziest shows of the season.

The cocktail: Nobody’s Sidecar

Inspired by one of the show’s show-stopping songs, Imperial Theater bar manager Mike Callahan created the Nobody’s Sidecar in honor of the spectacle. Naturally, it’s based on a classic Sidecar recipe.

• 2 ½ oz of Bourbon
• 1 ¼ oz Orange Liqueur
• 1 ¼ oz Sweet and Sour Mix

Preparation: Combine in a shaker, serve over ice with a splash of club soda.

The show: Titaníque

Everybody knows the 90s blockbuster Titanic, which stands as one of the biggest movies of all time. (If only the film was as successful as its time on the sea). The hit musical Titanique answers the question, what if Celine Dion narrated its timeless story? Originally a hit off-Broadway and nominated for best musical, Titaníque has made the voyage to the Great White Way with star Marla Mindelle giving a Tony-nominated performance herself.

The cocktail: The Heart of the Ocean

Any good cruise deserves a refreshing cocktail. Since that villainous iceberg was the center of the sad tale, the masterminds at the St. James Theater have dreamed up the frozen Heart of the Ocean. Named after the iconic jewel thrown into the deep blue sea in the film, this libation also gives off a blue hue. Make one to enjoy at home, set to a soundtrack of Celine Dion hits, of course.

• 1 ¾ oz Sauza Tequila
• ¼ oz Non alcoholic blue curaçao
• 2 ½ oz Tractor Lemonade
• 2 ½ oz Lime juice

Preparation: Combine with ice in a blender. Serve in your fanciest glass.