Hosting an event for kids presents party planners with a few unique challenges. One of the true tests of a party planner’s skill is creating a kid-friendly menu that parents, grandparents and other adults will also enjoy. Not only does this meal have to be tasty and nutritious, it also has to fit the rare requirement of being eaten when all the children really want to do is get back to the fun.
When planning a gala or bar mitzvah at 583 Park Avenue, our culinary team will work with you to create a custom menu of appetizers, main courses and desserts to fit the tastes of all your guests, but don’t forget, food isn’t everything. Have you considered how much fun your guests could have with a “kids only” drink menu? Here are 6 Kid-Friendly Cocktails that will make a splash at your next event.
Sparkling Grape Juice Mimosa
Ingredients:
- Orange Juice
- Sparkling White Grape Juice
- Cranberry Juice
A brunch favorite adapted for youngsters. Kids will love the foam and mix of colors, and parents will love that it packs a serving of fruit. A colorful straw and slice of orange for garnish will put the finishing touch on this mocktail made for early afternoon enjoyment.
Bartender Instructions:
Two parts OJ to one part sparkling white grape juice. Splash of cranberry juice for color. Serve in a Champagne flute.
Shirley Temple
Ingredients:
- Ginger Ale
- Grenadine
- Cherries
- Ice
The original mocktail and a bartending classic, The Shirley Temple has been delighting children at weddings, bar mitzvahs and cocktail receptions for years. While there are many variations on the classic, some using using cola, cranberry juice or even pineapple juice, the original Ginger Ale and Grenadine combo can’t be beat. Don’t forget the extra cherries.
Bartender Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice and 1/2 cup ginger ale. Add 1 tbsp. Grenadine until warm red color is achieved. Garnish with 2-3 cherries. Include extra cherries as appropriate.
Smoothies
Ingredients:
- Juice
- Non-fat milk
- Yogurt
- Frozen Fruit
- Ice
- Etc!
Not every special addition to your kids’ drink menu needs to look or sound like a real cocktail. Smoothies are a healthy and delicious treat that can be made in any number of varieties. While we wouldn’t recommend allowing for complete customization, one or two smoothie selections will add a great carbonation free option to your menu.
Bartender Instructions:
Blend milk, yogurt, fruit, ice and etc. until smooth. Add additional ingredients to taste.
Italian Soda
Ingredients:
- Raspberry Syrup
- Clear Carbonated Beverage
- Whipped Cream
A creamy and fizzy option that looks like it came straight out of an Italian café. While the recipe calls for lemon-lime soda, a healthier low-cal version can be made using carbonated water and sugar free raspberry syrup.
Bartender Instructions:
Add 1 tbsp. of Raspberry Syrup to 1/2 cup of carbonated beverage. Top with a generous layer of whipped cream.
Frobscottle
Ingredients:
- Kiwi
- Lime Juice
- Raspberry Yogurt
- Lemonade
- Cream Soda
While your kids may not be familiar with Roald Dahl’s Big Friendly Giant, the creature’s signature drink will be sure to satisfy. One thing to remember: While many of these drinks can be made in bulk, a Frobscottle must be made to order and served immediately to prevent curdling.
Bartender Instructions:
Blend the kiwis, lime Juice and yogurt until smooth. Strain. Stir in the lemonade and pour in the cream soda. Serve the beverage immediately for optimum fizz (and to prevent curdling).
Chocolate Mocktini
Ingredients:
- Chocolate Syrup
- Chocolate Milk
- Mint Chocolate Ice Cream
- Ice
Finally one for the chocolate lovers. While this drink may strike you as more of a dessert than a cocktail, this luxurious take on the classic chocolate milkshake will satisfy children of all ages.
Bartender Instructions:
Coat the inside of a martini glass with chocolate syrup. Blend two parts ice cream to one part chocolate milk. Add ice as necessary. Garnish with a peppermint
Would you like more details about hosting your next Gala or Cocktail Reception at 583 Park Avenue? CONTACT US today. One of our event coordinators will be in touch with you shortly.