How it tastes
Calamansi reads as lime first, then orange, then a small floral high note that neither lime nor orange has on its own. People sometimes describe it as yuzu-adjacent, which is roughly true. The spirit sits underneath. Vodka is the cleanest expression. Soft gin (something less juniper-forward) brings out the floral side. We usually pour vodka unless the guest asks otherwise.
Why we built it
Calamansi is everywhere in Malaysian kitchens and almost nowhere on Malaysian cocktail menus. Most bars default to lime because it's predictable. The juice is more delicate than lime, more aromatic, and slightly less acidic, so the proportions need adjusting. Once you do, it's the most refreshing thing on the bar. The Calamansi Highball is what we order when we're behind the bar and want something for ourselves.
Where to drink it
On request at Soluble Solids in SS2 Petaling Jaya. Calamansi is on the bar most days. If we're out, we'll tell you and pick a substitute together. Reserve a table for the easiest seat. Walk-ins welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What glass is the Calamansi Highball served in?
A chilled tall highball glass, built directly. Plenty of clean ice, half-calamansi and a mint sprig dropped on top. The tall format keeps the soda carbonation alive and lets the drink stretch over a long pour. A rocks glass is too short; the drink loses its highball character.
Can I substitute the calamansi?
Yuzu juice is the closest profile match (also a tart-floral citrus). Lime works but loses the orange-floral high note that defines the drink. A half-and-half lime and orange mix approximates it. Pre-bottled calamansi juice is acceptable in a pinch but fresh is meaningfully better. The fruit is at every Malaysian wet market for cheap.
How strong is the Calamansi Highball?
Light. About 9 to 12 percent ABV in the glass after soda dilution. The 45ml of vodka or soft gin (40 percent) is stretched long by soda water. Drinks easy and refreshing; the calamansi's brightness hides the alcohol so it is easy to underestimate. Good session drink.
Where can I order a Calamansi Highball in PJ or KL?
At Soluble Solids (SS2, 50-1 Jalan SS2/24, Wed-Sun 18:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-1682 8651). This is the bar that originated the build; calamansi is on the bar most days. Dissolved Solids (Damansara Kim, 43-1 Jalan SS20/11, Tue-Sun 15:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-4008 7607) will also pour it on request.
What food pairs with the Calamansi Highball?
Fried Malaysian food and seafood. Nasi lemak with crispy ikan bilis, fried chicken (especially Korean or Hat Yai), satay, popiah, kerabu, lemongrass prawns. The citrus cuts through grease beautifully. Also pairs with sushi and dim sum. Avoid heavy cream sauces; the drink is too light to stand against them.