Primanti Bros Drunk Duck Drink Recipe

Craving a drink that’s as playful as it is tasty? Let me introduce you to the Primanti Bros Drunk Duck Drink,  a fan-favorite cocktail that’s sweet, citrusy, and just a little cheeky. Imagine sipping a blend of smooth vodka, crisp rum, melon, and orange notes, all topped with a fizzy lemon-lime finish, while a cute rubber duck bobs happily in your glass.

I first tried this drink at Primanti Bros, and let me tell you,  it’s impossible not to smile when it arrives at your table. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this vibrant cocktail is sure to be the star of the night. The combination of fruit liqueurs, pineapple juice, and Sprite creates a perfectly balanced sip that’s sweet without being overpowering, while the bright blue-green color makes it a total showstopper.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Making the Drunk Duck Drink at home is surprisingly quick and easy. I like to think of it as assembling layers of flavor that come together into one playful, tropical masterpiece.

Mixing the Drink

1. Start with ice in your shaker.
   I always fill my cocktail shaker with plenty of fresh ice; it chills the drink instantly and keeps the flavors crisp.
   
2. Add your spirits and mixers.
   Pour in ½ oz Smirnoff Orange Vodka, ½ oz Bacardi Superior Rum, ½ oz DeKuyper Triple Sec, ½ oz Midori Melon Liqueur, ½ oz Giffard Blue Curaçao Liqueur, and 3 oz Dole Pineapple Juice.
   
3. Shake it up
   Secure the shaker lid and give it a gentle shake for about 10–15 seconds. You’re not trying to foam it up; chill and blend the flavors.
   
4. Prepare your glass
   Fill your tall glass or tumbler with fresh ice. This step keeps the drink cool without watering it down too quickly.
   
5. Strain and top off
   Strain the beautiful blue-green blend into your glass, then crown it with 2 oz of Sprite Lemon-Lime Soda for that refreshing fizz.

Adding the Signature Duck Garnish 

Here’s the fun part: gently place a clean rubber duck on top of the drink. It instantly transforms the cocktail from “delicious” to “Instagram-famous.”

I recommend choosing a small duck that can float without tipping over. (And no, you don’t actually eat the duck,  it’s all about presentation!)

Flavor Tip

If you want a sweeter twist, you can stir in a splash of grenadine before topping with Sprite; it creates a pretty color gradient and adds a candy-like note to the drink.

Serving and Presentation

One of the best things about the Primanti Bros Drunk Duck Drink is how much fun you can have with its presentation. The drink already stands out with its electric blue-green hue, but there are plenty of ways to make it even more eye-catching.

Suggested Garnishes & Extras

• Rubber Duck: The classic must-have. Always make sure it’s food-safe and clean before use.
  
• Citrus Wheel: Add a slice of orange or lime to the rim for extra color contrast.
  
• Umbrella Picks: For that over-the-top tropical vibe, pop in a cocktail umbrella.
  
• Fresh Fruit Skewers: Pineapple chunks, maraschino cherries, and melon balls pair perfectly with the drink’s flavor profile.
  

Fun Variations

1. Tropical Duck: Swap the pineapple juice for mango juice and add a splash of coconut rum for a creamier, island-inspired twist.
   
2. Berry Duck: Replace the Midori Melon Liqueur with raspberry liqueur and garnish with fresh berries for a sweet-tart version.
   
3. Party Pitcher: Multiply the ingredients by 4 or 6, mix in a large pitcher, and float a few rubber ducks for a fun party centerpiece.
   

Pairing Ideas

I love serving the Drunk Duck alongside casual, salty bar foods,  think loaded fries, onion rings, or a Primanti Bros sandwich. The sweet, citrusy notes of the drink balance out the savory flavors beautifully.

Storage Instructions

While cocktails like the Drunk Duck are best enjoyed fresh, there are a few ways to prep ahead if you’re hosting.

Make-Ahead Mix

You can combine all the spirits and pineapple juice in a sealed pitcher and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When it’s party time, just pour over ice, top with Sprite, and add the rubber duck garnish.

What Not to Do

Avoid adding soda in advance; the fizz will disappear, and you’ll end up with a flat drink. Also, don’t store the drink with the rubber duck floating in it for long periods, as it’s purely a garnish and not meant for prolonged soaking.

Extra Tips for the Perfect Drunk Duck Drink

• Chill Everything: Cold ingredients keep the drink refreshing longer. I sometimes chill my glasses in the freezer for that frosted effect.
  
• Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, swap Sprite for club soda or a lemon-flavored sparkling water.
  
• Get Creative with Ducks: Seasonal ducks (Santa hats in December, sunglasses in summer) make for great themed cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Primanti Bros Drunk Duck Drink 

1. What is a Drunk Duck Drink at Primanti Bros?

The Drunk Duck is a colorful, tropical-style cocktail served at Primanti Bros restaurants. It blends vodka, rum, triple sec, melon liqueur, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and Sprite,  and is famously garnished with a floating rubber duck.

2. Can I make the Drunk Duck without alcohol?

Yes! For a mocktail version, skip the spirits and replace them with orange juice, lemon-lime soda, melon syrup, and a splash of blue sports drink for color. It still looks and tastes fun without the booze.

3. Is the rubber duck safe to put in a drink?

Always use a new, food-safe rubber duck that’s been washed thoroughly before use. It’s for decoration only,  not to be chewed, bitten, or consumed.

4. What type of glass should I use?

A tall glass or large tumbler works best. It showcases the drink’s bright colors and gives enough space for the garnish and ice.

5. Can I make a large batch for a party?

Absolutely! Mix the spirits and pineapple juice in a pitcher ahead of time, refrigerate, and pour over ice when ready. Top with Sprite and add a duck just before serving.

6. Does the drink actually taste like duck?

Not at all,  the name is purely for fun! The flavor is sweet, fruity, and citrusy, with a tropical kick.

Conclusion

The Primanti Bros Drunk Duck Drink isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a conversation starter. Between its bright, tropical flavors and its whimsical garnish, it’s the kind of drink that turns a regular night into a fun memory. By following these easy steps, you can recreate this bar favorite in your own kitchen and wow your guests with a drink that’s as tasty as it is photo-worthy.

So, grab your shaker, ice, and a cute little rubber duck,  and let’s make a splash.