Bacardi premiered its new Lime flavor with a Neon Brunch on April 26 at Magic Hour Rooftop Bar at The Moxy Times Square hotel in New York. The rum giant went all out with the theme, from the neon-lit green tunnel entrance to the lime tree bearing bat-emblazoned fruit, and the rotating neon green banquette carousel.

Most guests took the invitation’s directive to wear something neon, particularly the host, Olivia Culpo. The model/actress (shown above) wore a bright neon green mini dress with towering silver stiletto heels. Culpo and many other attendees posed with the fluorescent neon Bacardi bat wings.

Servers passed bite-sized savory brunch fare such mini lobster rolls, meatballs, fingerling potatoes and chicken and waffles (a fan favorite). Desserts included Rice Krispies Treat lollipops, mini key lime pie tarts and lime cotton candy.  

The cocktails? The lineup included a Bacardi Lime Mojito, Bacardi Lime and Soda (served in adorable little branded bottles) and a Sparkling Hibiscus Limeade, with Bacardi Lime, St. Germain, Monin hibiscus syrup, lime, lemon/lime soda and soda.

My colleague and I had also the bartender make a Daiquiri with the Bacardi Lime to test it out in a classic cocktail. We think he actually made something closer to a Rum Collins, but it was still pretty good. My favorite cocktail was probably the Lime Cooler. Here’s the full recipe.

Bacardi Lime Cooler
2 parts Bacardi Lime rum
¾ part Watermelon liqueur
¾ part Lime juice
½ part Simple syrup
2 parts Club soda

Shake ingredients vigorously with plenty of ice. Top with club soda.  Garnish with watermelon wedge and a lime wheel.