Five Lovestruck Concoctions Inspired By Saint Valentine

Whether you've been struck by cupid's arrow and are creating a romantic meal or are blissful solo and hosting an Anti-Valentine's Day bash, here are five cocktails to celebrate Saint Valentine.

1. Cruzan Rose Kiss: This floral drink utilizes one of the most popular Valentine's Day gifts.

 • 2 parts Cruzan Aged Light Rum
 • .5 parts Hibiscus Liqueur
 • 1 part Fresh Lime Juice
 • 3 Drops Rose Water
 • Splash of Soda Water

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker, shake for 15 seconds. Pour over fresh ice in a Collins glass. Top with soda water.

2. Box O' Chocolates: Hamptons love birds should stop by Nick & Toni's (36 North Main Street, East Hampton, 631-324-3550, www.nickandtonis.com) to try this sweet cocktail.

 • .75 oz. Cherry Liqueur
 • 5 oz. Prosecco or Champagne
 • Large Orange Twist

Box O' Chocolates. (Courtesy Photo)

Directions: Add cherry liqueur then prosecco to your chocolate rimmed champagne glass. Hang the orange twist on the edge of the glass and voila.

3. The Closer: If you're in NYC for Valentine's Day, finish your meal with this chocolatey concoction from NYY Steak (7 West 51st Street, New York, 646-307-7910, www.nyysteak.com).

 • 1.5 oz. Godiva Chocolate
 • 1 oz. Absolute Vanilla
 • .25 oz. Kahlua
 • .25 oz. Frangelico
 • Splash Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Juice
 • Splash Grand Marnier
 • 1 Egg White
 • Chocolate Covered Strawberry
 • Dark Chocolate shavings

Directions: Fill a shaker with ice and add Godiva Chocolate, Absolute Vanilla, Frangelico, and Kahlua. Pour into a glass. Top with Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Juice, Grand Marnier and egg white infused foam. Garnish with dark chocolate shavings and a chocolate covered strawberry.

4. Cupid's Arrow: Even if the son of the love goddess hasn't hit you with his arrow, this libation is still worth mixing up.

 • 1 oz. Lucid Absinthe
 • 1 oz. Raspberry Liqueur
 • 1 oz. Lemonade or Sour Mix
 • 2 oz. Ginger Ale
 • 1 Lemon wedge

Directions: Fill a shaker with ice and add raspberry liqueur, Lucid Absinthe and lemonade. Shake vigorously. Pour into a glass and top with ginger ale, add a lemon wedge and serve.

The Closer, Cupid's Arrow, and Cruzan Rose Kiss. (Courtesy Photos)

5. Strawberry Kiss: The festive cocktail is available at the 21 Club (21 West 52nd Street, New York, 212-582-7200, www.21club.com).

 • 2 oz. Grey Goose Vodka
 • 1.5 oz. Lillet
 • 1 oz. Strawberry Simple Syrup
 • .75 oz. Crème de Cacao White
 • .5 oz. Perrier
 • 2 Strawberries

Directions: Muddle one strawberry at the bottom of a mixing glass. Add vodka, lillet, simple syrup and crème de cacao white to the mixing glass with ice and shake. Double strain (to remove pulp) into a chilled Martini glass. Top with Perrier. Garnish with a strawberry.

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Nicole is the Editor-in-Chief of Hamptons.com where she focuses on lifestyle, nightlife, and mixology. She grew up in the Hamptons and currently resides in Water Mill. www.hamptons.com NicoleBarylski NicoleBarylski