"The orange crush cocktail is more than just associated with Maryland - the bright orange citrus drink was actually declared the state's official cocktail on June 1, 2025, by Maryland governor Wes Moore. Bars in the area are serious about making them right, that is, with freshly squeezed orange juice. Look for bags of fresh oranges and juicers in an establishment before ordering, and make sure it will be the real deal."
"Some people say the orange crush was invented at Harborside Bar & Grill in Ocean City, Maryland, when co-owner Chris Wall and other staffers experimented with making drinks with freshly squeezed juice after hours in 1995. However, a few other establishments throughout Maryland claim the drink as their own creation, so the exact origins remain a mystery."
The orange crush cocktail became Maryland's official cocktail on June 1, 2025, when Governor Wes Moore declared the designation. Bars in the region emphasize freshly squeezed orange juice and often display bags of oranges and juicers to signal authenticity. The drink likely originated in Ocean City in 1995 at Harborside Bar & Grill, though several Maryland establishments claim creation and the exact origin remains uncertain. The cocktail mixes freshly squeezed orange juice with vodka, triple sec, and lemon-lime soda such as Sprite or 7 UP, served over crushed ice with an orange wedge garnish. The recipe is simple and evokes Maryland beach culture.
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