Cocktail Lab: Crafting the Perfect Pub Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is comfort in a glass — simple ingredients, big flavor. In a pub setting, it’s often ordered as a classic or given a local twist. This guide walks you through the canonical recipe, techniques for consistency, and a few seasonal variations that keep your menu fresh.

The classic recipe

Ingredients:

• 60ml bourbon or rye
• 1 sugar cube (or 8ml simple syrup)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice (large cube preferred)
• Orange peel for garnish

Method

1. If using a sugar cube, place it in a rocks glass with the bitters and a splash of water. Muddle until dissolved. If using simple syrup, combine syrup and bitters directly.
2. Add the spirit and a large ice cube.
3. Stir gently for 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
4. Express an orange peel over the glass and drop it in as garnish.

Technique matters

Stirring, not shaking: Shaking aerates and chills quickly; stirring cools while preserving clarity and texture. Aim for the right dilution to open aromatics without watering down the spirit.

Variations for a pub menu

Give patrons a twist without sacrificing the Old Fashioned essence:

• Smoked Old Fashioned — briefly smoke the glass or use a peated malt or single malt for an earthy note.
• Garden Old Fashioned — muddle a few basil leaves or add a dash of herbal bitters for summer menus.
• Citrus & Spice — use a dash of orange bitters and garnish with candied ginger.

Batching for busy nights

Batch Old Fashioneds for service by combining bourbon, simple syrup and bitters in a sanitized container. Keep chilled and portion at service. Stir each portion with ice to ensure correct dilution and texture.

Presentation tips

A large ice cube keeps the drink from watering quickly. Use fresh citrus peels and, if serving a smoked variant, briefly show the smoking process to add theatre — it enhances the guest experience.

"The Old Fashioned is an exercise in restraint: subtle sugar, confident bitters and a spirit-forward backbone."

Pairing with pub food

The Old Fashioned pairs well with rich flavours: aged cheeses, charcuterie, and smoked or caramelised dishes. It stands up to bold flavors without competing, making it a versatile menu staple.

Common mistakes and fixes

• Too sweet: reduce syrup and emphasize bitters.
• Too dilute: shorten stirring time or use larger ice.
• Flat aroma: use fresh citrus peel and aromatic bitters.

Final note

The perfect pub Old Fashioned balances consistency with a touch of local character. Train staff to make one great version and add a rotating seasonal variation to keep regulars coming back. Above all, keep it simple — the Old Fashioned rewards restraint.