Tim serves up a Basil Smash at Castaway

Tim serves up a Basil Smash at Castaway - A man smiling for the camera - Beer

Castaway Waterfront Restaurant in Marathon is known for its lionfish recipes and local friendly vibes, but it will soon be known for its Basil Smash, served by bartender Tim Shifflett, who works on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

“It might not be the most popular drink,” Shifflett said, “but it is the best in my opinion.”

The drink is vigorously shaken in ice with Hendricks gin, lemon, basil and a little simple syrup. It is then strained over ice and garnished with a basil leaf.

“You can’t make it with any other gin than the Hendricks,” he added. “It just won’t work.”

The refreshing summertime drink leaves a crisp aftertaste perfect after a day on the water or at the beach. If the idea of gin leaves the drinker skeptical, prepare to be a convert.

“It makes people who don’t usually like or order gin, like gin,” Shifflett said.

Castaway’s also serves up 37 beers on tap (yummy ones like Big Wave and Sculpin) and has drink specials like the Sailor’s Painkiller, which is a popular drink special.

Castaway has an old school Marathon vibe and is located at the end of 15th Street at 1406 Oceanview Avenue and open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.

‘The best part about working here is it’s a local’s spot,’ Shifflett said, holding up his Basil Smash.

 

Kristen Livengood is a Marathon High School and University of South Florida grad, mom of two beautiful little girls, and wife to some cute guy she met in a bar. She enjoys red wine, Tito's, Jameson, running (very, very slowly), and spearfishing.