Text by Armella Stepan
The spritz cocktail, with its effervescent charm, first journeyed from its Prosecco-rich birthplace of Veneto Italy in the 1800s to the picturesque resorts on the Amalfi Coast. This now classic aperitif has blossomed from a simple combination of white wine and sparkling water to numerous refreshing mashups, perfectly suited for seaside sipping on the California coast.
The key to a perfect spritz lies in its balance of flavors and the level of carbonation. Choices of mixers vary widely, however a dry prosecco is recommended. At Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar, each restaurant features its favorite, garnished with fresh herbs and produce from Santa Monica’s Farmers Market.
Saluti! Santé! Cheers!
Hugo Spritz at Shutters on the Beach Courtyard
Experience the essence of French elderflower with a Hugo Spritz in Shutters Courtyard or Living Room. The fragrant spritzes take center stage during the Shutters Spring Soirees.
A colorful Le Jardin by St. Germain comes alive in the Courtyard on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the season of renewal. It is a vibrant celebration not to be missed.
St. Germain Hugo Spritzes take on a lovely pink hue during Rosé Month in June and Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October thanks to a dash of rosé!
Ingredients:
- Prosecco
- Soda water
- St-Germain Liqueur
- Fresh mint leaves
Watermelon Spritz from Coast Beach Café and Bar at Shutters
For a sweet and fruity cocktail, order a Watermelon Spritz at Coast Beach Café. It’s perfect for watching the beach cruisers glide by on sunny days. A twist of lemon peel adds a bright finish to this delightful drink.
Ingredients:
- Aperol
- Vodka
- Rosé Prosecco
- Watermelon Juice and wedge
Orchard Spritz at Terrazza at Hotel Casa del Mar
Terrazza Restaurant and its adjacent Lobby Lounge celebrate the Orchard Spritz, a delightful fusion of floral and fruity flavors. Garnished with a slice of green apple this cocktail is perfect for a relaxing afternoon overlooking the ocean.
Ingredients:
- Lillet Blanc
- Sparkling apple cider
- Prosecco
- Green apple slice or thyme sprig
- Classic Aperol Spritz at Casa’s Patio del Mar
Classic Aperol Spritz at Casa’s Patio Del Mar
A classic Aperol Spritz at The Patio overlooking the Pacific Ocean transports you from Santa Monica Beach to the Amalfi Coast. Garnished with a slice of orange, this iconic cocktail offers a rich, citrusy twist.
Ingredients:
- Aperol
- Prosecco
- Soda water
- Orange slice
