Shucks’ Spring Fling Cocktail Recipe

Shucks pairs breezy bayou views with a fruit-forward cocktail that captures the easy-going spirit of spring in Lake Charles

Now celebrating its first anniversary, the long-awaited Shucks Louisiana Seafood House in Lake Charles emulates the spirit of the original Shucks in Abbeville. Opened in 1995, the iconic Abbeville landmark has been beloved for its fresh local oysters, Gulf seafood creations, friendly service and in recent years, live music on Bayou Vermilion.

“The Lake Charles location has been six years in the making,” says co-owner Bert Istre. “Thanks to a group of Lake Charles investors that put in, we opened with a crazy bang on Cinco de Mayo, which we call Shuck-o-de-Mayo on the Bayou. We hope to eventually open more locations.”

Shucks’ newer outpost is on a grander scale, offering the same convivial atmosphere and seafood with nearly double the seating capacity. Anchoring the Lake Charles expansion is a stunning 150-seat patio overlooking Contraband Bayou where sunset views, gentle breezes and live music set the stage for enticing craft cocktails.

Among the standout sippers is the aptly named Spring Fling, a cocktail that drinks like a seasonal reset. Watermelon vodka brings juicy freshness, cucumber vodka adds a crisp, garden-cool element and a swirl of strawberry puree lends a touch of sweetness. Finished by a splash of Sprite, the Spring Fling is light, effervescent and exactly what you want when the sun dips low and tables start filling up. It’s the kind of refreshing drink that’s easy to make and easy to love.

Muddle one mint leaf in a shaker tin. Add 1 oz. cucumber vodka, 1 oz. watermelon vodka and 1/2 oz. strawberry purée. Add ice, shake and strain into a wine glass. Add fresh ice. Top with Sprite. Garnish with a strawberry, sliced cucumber and a fresh mint sprig.

Shucks Louisiana Seafood House
1301 Bayou Vue Drive, Lake Charles
Main phone: 337-377-0101
To go/Curbside: 337-377-0016
shucksrestaurant.com/lake-charles
@SHUCKSLakeCharles
@shucksthelouisianaseafoodhouse