HOUSTON – The FIFA World Cup 26™ may have moved on from Houston, but the excitement surrounding the tournament is still going strong. Along the way, one cocktail has been popping up on menus at bars across the city: the Buchanita.
Made with just two ingredients, it’s Buchanan’s signature match-day cocktail, and it’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home.
To learn the proper technique, Houston Life’s Melanie Camp stopped by restaurant Flora with her bestie, food and travel journalist Mai Pham (better known as @FemmeFoodie), for a lesson from Obed Gallardo, Flora’s Director of Beverage.
The recipe itself couldn’t be easier: Buchanan’s Whisky and pineapple juice.
But according to Gallardo, the real magic isn’t in the ingredients.
“The secret is in the shake.”
While it may seem like a small step, shaking the cocktail vigorously creates the light, frothy texture that makes it an authentic Buchanita. It aerates the pineapple juice, softens the whisky, and gives the drink its signature finish.
Don’t have a cocktail shaker? No problem.
Gallardo says a protein shaker or any container with a secure lid works just as well. The key is giving the drink a really good shake before pouring it over fresh ice.
It’s an easy trick that takes a simple two-ingredient cocktail to the next level.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a match, heading to a watch party, or simply looking for a refreshing summer cocktail, the Buchanita is an easy way to bring a little FIFA World Cup 26™ spirit home.
Watch the full Houston Life segment to see Obed Gallardo’s technique, learn the proper shake, and discover why this simple cocktail has become Buchanan’s signature match-day cocktail during the FIFA World Cup 26™.
Flora Mexican Kitchen is located at 3422 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019, inside Buffalo Bayou Park.