After the islands became a U.S. state in 1959, Hawaii became a popular tourist destination, and the Mai Tai was often marketed as Hawaii’s flagship drink, despite its Californian origins.

One of the most well-known variations is the Royal Hawaiian mai tai. In 1953, Bergeron traveled to Hawaii where Matson Steamship Lines asked him to create a version of the mai tai for its hotels.

Coconut Mai Tai: Uses coconut rum or coconut milk, providing a creamy, island-inspired variation. Blue Hawaiian Mai Tai: ...