With National Rum Day peering above the horizon, it’s time to explore the best New York City has to offer in terms of this beachside, alcoholic favorite. Paired best with fruity flavors that may make your mouth pucker, the below cocktails will give you a guide to rum’s sweet side. This way, you’ll be prepared for the underrated holiday on August 16, when rum-lovers and the booze they enjoy most get their time in the spotlight.

The Escape at The Rum House: Let’s start with the obvious place to go for rum-based cocktails. Aptly titled, The Rum House in the Edison Hotel provides a bevy of options suited to this holiday. One of their top offerings gives you a couple of rum options, either El Dorado Dark or Flor de Caña Centenario 12 Year. Mixed with Coconut Crème, Pineapple Juice, and sweet Vermouth, this beverage resembles a Piña Colada but with a much-welcomed extra kick. (228 W 47th St.; 646-490-6924)

Navy Grog at Cienfuegos: This Cuban bar specializes in rum, but of their many cocktails, Navy Grog stands out. The humble name indicates not a low-class beverage, but a mixing of three, distinct rums: Dark, Jamaican, and Ron del Barrilito. The addition of honey, lime, and grapefruit makes it feel like you’re imbibing something that will ultimately cure an ailment. (95 Avenue A; 212-614-6818)

Daiquiri Cubano at Café Habana: An actually humble beverage this time, the Daiquiri Cubano should not be underestimated. For those who want to enjoy plus one rum cocktails without emptying bank accounts, the simple white rum, fresh lime juice, and sugar cane cocktail more than serves its purpose…especially with the 95 cent addition of strawberry, mango, or guava puree (guava recommended). (17 Prince St.; 212-625-2001)

Amityville at Death & Company: A delicious stirred option, Amityville mixes Bacardi Heritage with Banks 5 Year Rum and Dolin Blanc Vermouth to achieve an alcoholic combo that’s just pleading for tang. Enter Granny Smith Apple Juice, vanilla syrup, and orange bitters to provide just that. For even more of a bite, there’s a hint of absinthe thrown in, as well. (433 E 6th St.; 212-388-0882)

Ginger Smash at Employees Only: Again, we get rum mixed with flavors of pineapple, apple, and fresh lime. This time, they’re all in the same glass, and there they swim with muddled ginger root and Maraschino Liqueur. Served shaken over ice, this drink uses Caña Brava Rum as its base. (510 Hudson St.; 212-242-3021)

Dr. J at Booker & Dax: The bar connected to Momofuku’s Ssäm Bar, Booker & Dax presents a dark, cozy atmosphere and satisfying place to while away the time as you await a seat at the conjoined restaurant. Their shaken rum drink in particular deserves a spot on the list because it’s been “milk washed,” a method that lets rum infuse with milk overnight in the fridge so as to separate out curds. Vanilla tincture and orange make this smooth drink extra sweet and easy to imbibe. (207 2nd Ave.; 212-254-3500)

Queen’s Park Swizzle at Middle Branch: If you want a fresher twist on your rum cocktail, the Queen’s Park Swizzle’s minty emphasis makes this drink a clear frontrunner. Lime syrup and bitters add dimension to the rum and adhere to the traditional taste we’ve come to associate with the upscale rum cocktail. This is the closest you’ll come to a rum drink that tastes like the color green (c’mon, use your imagination). (154 E 33rd St.; 212-213-1350)

Photo: Flickr user kansasphoto