The Hand Grenade is touted as the strongest drink on Bourbon Street, and it is named for the effect it has on your body, mind, and (presumably) soul. Though the recipe is a closely guarded secret, its melon flavor indicates a presence of Midori, which helpfully masks the taste of its other ingredient: overproof booze. It was invented by Pam Fortner and Earl Bernhardt, who served it at their bar at the New Orleans World’s Fair in 1984. After the fair closed, the pair opened several bars on and near Bourbon Street, the most famous of which is Tropical Isle. The Hand Grenade was one of the first drinks on Bourbon Street to be served in its own specialty plastic cup, which encouraged folks to carry it throughout the French Quarter. If you are leery of such a strong concoction, you can instead sample Hand Grenade-flavored peanuts or condoms, both of which are available at the various Tropical Isle outlets.
The Tropical Isle website strongly suggests you don’t drink more than three.
Personal experience compels me to tell you it’s really best to stick to one.
