spicy paloma caia
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Spicy Paloma cocktail recipe by Caia

15 Aug 2024 | Updated on: 22 Aug 2024 | By Annie Lewis

Calling all spicy paloma fans, you're going to want to try this summer serve by Caia

West London’s food scene has been buzzing of late. The clutch of chic restaurants spanning Notting Hill, Holland Park and Hammersmith has, some would say, made it the place to see and be seen: not just for foodies, but restaurateurs too. Because, here, away from the bright lights and extortionate expense of Mayfair and Knightsbridge, are an array of interesting, casual eateries with the same penchant to impress.

One restaurant that’s leading the way is Caia. The brainchild of Notting Hill locals Rishabh Vir and Tim Lang, it’s created quite the stir among both foodies and oenophiles since it opened in 2022. Situated on Golborne Road, walk past Caia on a weekday evening and you’ll find a buzzing atmosphere, wood-fired small plates and a wine list to rival London’s most opulent.

Caia Notting Hill

But, what about the cocktails, I hear you say? Offering an expansive menu, the serves range from the signature Direct Martini – seven parts Tanqueray 10 Gin or Ramsbury Vodka to one part Dolin Dry Vermouth, served straight from the freezer – to more playful takes on classics such as the Sunshine Negroni, featuring Boxer Gin, Campari, vermouth, limoncello, and lime. The cocktail we order every time, however, is the Spicy Paloma. The ultimate summer sipper – best enjoyed on Caia’s sun-kissed terrace, or on your own balcony at home – the smooth, slightly smoky notes of Espadin mezcal blend perfectly with the heat of chilli and the burst of grapefruit. Here’s how to make it at home.

Recipe

Spicy Paloma

  • Serves 1

Ingredients

  • Ojo de Dios Mezcal 40ml
  • Lime juice 10ml
  • Sugar syrup 10ml
  • Scotch Bonnet tincture 10 drops
  • Grapefruit soda 60ml
  • Lime wedge To garnish

Method

  1. Run a slice of lime around the rim of a highball glass and dip in Himalayan pink salt.
  2. Place all the cocktail ingredients, except the grapefruit soda, into a cocktail shaker. Shake over ice and strain into a glass.
  3. Top with grapefruit soda and add ice.
  4. Garnish the glass with a slice of lime.

Ojo de Dios Mezcal

£40.50
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GEORG JENSEN Bernadotte Highball Glasses set

£60
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