A long drink that delivers in service
The Julia Special is a practical, service-driven cocktail developed at Bar Olaf by Marissa, Julia, and bartender Rodney Pont.
The brief was straightforward: build a drink in the space of a Dark ’n Stormy, but with more depth and a clearer signature. Something that works in volume, but still stands out. Marissa developed the base, Rodney refined the balance, and Julia put it into service, where it proved itself. The name stuck.
Three years on, it’s still on rotation.
The Julia Special cocktail recipe
A pandan rum longdrink built on a familiar backbone.
Ingredients
- 40 ml (1.35 oz) honey rum
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur
- 10 ml (0.35 oz) vanilla syrup
- 20 ml (0.7 oz) fresh lime juice
- Ginger beer (top)
Preparation
- Chill a highball glass
- Add all ingredients except ginger beer to a shaker
- Shake with ice
- Dump into the glass (ice included)
- Top with ginger beer
Garnish
- Dried lime wheel
- Banana leaf
About the Bartender – Rodney Pont
Name: Rodney Pont
Bar: Bar Olaf
Bartender since: July 2022
Rodney entered bartending through curiosity, starting with classic cocktails and building from there. Since joining Bar Olaf at opening, his focus has been on drinks that are approachable, balanced, and repeatable in service.
“It all started with a Long Island Iced Tea and how to make the perfect one. Then I started looking up lots of classic cocktails, testing them and making the drinks for friends and guests.”
About Bar Olaf (Leiden)
Bar Olaf is a modern cocktail bar in the center of Leiden, focused on accessible, high-quality drinks. Cocktail-led, without overcomplication, balanced between classics and house creations. Since opening in 2022, it has established itself as a reliable cocktail destination in the city.
Follow Rodney on Instagram: @RodneyPont en @BarOlaf
Interested in more Pandan drink recipes?
Whether enjoyed in a pandan coffee, a pandan dessert or a delicious cocktail, Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur offers a versatile flavor that bridges Asian tradition and modern hospitality. For more Pandan cocktail recipes click here.
Why bartenders use pandan liqueur in cocktails
Bartenders around the world are increasingly experimenting with pandan liqueur because of its unique flavour and colour. The aromatic pandan leaf adds tropical notes similar to vanilla and coconut, while its natural green colour creates visually striking cocktails.
Bandoeng’22 pandan liqueur was developed specifically to bring these Southeast Asian flavours into modern cocktail culture.
