Spotlight: Benjamin Newby, Mixologist Extraordinaire

Delve recently caught up with one of our favorite cocktail gurus, Benjamin Newby, Head Mixologist behind The Underground, to keep a pulse on what’s new in the world of Chicago imbibing. From the latest trends, to Benjamin’s go-to drink, we covered it all. Check out a few of our fave Benjamin tips below:

Trending

Gone are the days of the serious-speakeasy bartender. People want to have fun, in an environment that warrants just that. The latest trend? All things tiki. Delve recently did a post on a few Chicago spots that are nailing the boat drink trend, and it looks like there are more to come. Think Pina Coladas (Benjamin recommends making them with coconut water and a coconut rum, for a bit of a calorie saver) and Caipirinhas.

Entertaining?

Benjamin’s number one tip when entertaining: have a drink in peoples’ hands as they walk through the door. Now, we realize that’s a tall order – and that no one wants to be slaving away making drinks as people arrive. So, for those of us that can’t have a bartender on hand at every party we throw (sigh), Benjamin recommends stirring up a punch before people arrive. Delve’s recommendation:

30 oz. Spanish brandy

15 oz. fresh lemon juice

8 oz. of simple syrup

15 oz. of Spanish Cava

Combine brandy, lemon juice and simple syrup and refrigerate. Top it off with the chilled Cava as guests arrive

Benjamin’s Go-To

After winning the Bombay Sapphire National Competition presented by GQ Magazine for his mixing skills, Benjamin sticks with his “Bombay General” (the cocktail that landed him a first place finish) as his go-to drink. Lucky for us, he’s sharing his recipe with Delve readers:

2 oz. of Bombay Sapphire

1 tsp. Tangerine Marmalade

1 oz Domaine De Canton Ginger Liqueur

1/2 Fresh Squeezed Lemon

1/2 tsp. White Sugar

1 Egg White