Drink Up: Low-Calorie Cocktails


Red Sox vs. Yankees. Democrats vs. Republicans. Cowboys vs. aliens. This summer has plenty of rivalries — but perhaps none so bitter as the battle between an endless series of cocktail parties and poolside soirees and your bikini-exposed waistline. Yes, alcohol has calories. A lot of them. Luckily, local mixologists understand this plight and have whipped up a series of light and refreshing drinks that let you imbibe without expanding.

Haru is mixing up the exotic “Watermelon Fizz” ($12), made with tequila, fresh melon, and cilantro and clocking in at 95 calories. For those trying to kick the frozen-drink habit, Prezza offers the “Naked Piña Colada” ($12.50), a shot of Don Q coconut rum infused with pineapple — all the taste of the island favorite for just 60 calories. And Fleming’s Steakhouse has two 99-calorie drinks (both $11.95): July’s “Sexy Sailor” (like an Arnold Palmer spiced up with Sailor Jerry rum), and August’s “Russian Prom Queen,” made with Stoli Blueberi, fresh lime juice, and cucumber.

Looking to re-create the trend at your next get-together? Try this recipe for Morton’s Steakhouse’s “Skinny Rita,” our favorite offering from the restaurant’s new low-cal Spa-tini menu (pictured).

Skinny Rita

  • 1.75 oz. Patrón Silver Tequila
  • 1 oz. Monin Agave Nectar
  • .5 oz. lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • .5 oz. lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake 25 times and strain into a martini glass garnished with a lime wedge.