Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic38.6% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Cheese, Chocolate, Aperitif
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierBitters
- 1 1/2 ozGinBase
- 1/2 ozMaraschino LiqueurModifier
- 2 dashesOrange BittersBitters
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirStrain
- In a mixing glass half-filled with ice cubes, combine all of the ingredients.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Stir well.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.StrainStraining removes ice chips, pulp or solids for a cleaner texture.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.
Swap notes
Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable — each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.BittersOrange bitters add citrus brightness and aromatic lift. Angostura is spicier and warmer — use a dash less if you swap. Peychaud's is the lightest option; it keeps the drink balanced without adding too much weight.
GarnishA maraschino or cocktail cherry adds a sweet, fruity finish and a visual anchor. A fresh cherry is less sweet and more tart. An orange twist or peel swap will change the aroma but remove the fruit sweetness — the drink will feel drier as a result.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a London Town?
- The London Town is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 38.6%. A standard serving contains approximately 151 calories.
- What does a London Town taste like?
- London Town has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Bitter, Orange, Almond. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a London Town?
- London Town pairs well with Cheese, Chocolate, Citrus Based Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a London Town?
- The London Town has an ABV of approximately 38.6%. That's approximately 1.33 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 151 calories, 3.7g sugar, 5.2g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a London Town typically served?
- London Town is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a London Town?
- If you enjoy London Town, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a London Town at home?
- Yes. The London Town uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of London Town with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.