Z-28 Shooter – Tequila, Banana & Mint Layers
A bold, layered shooter that mixes tequila’s bite with cool mint and tropical banana. The Z-28 is quick to pour, striking to look at, and built for instant party energy.
The Z-28 Shooter
Bright, balanced, and easy to build, the Z-28 Shooter blends tequila, banana liqueur, and crème de menthe for a sweet-mint-meets-spice punch in a single sip. Its stacked colors make it one of the most eye-catching shots behind any bar.
Background
The Z-28 appeared in the late-night shooter era of the 1980s, named after the classic Camaro model and known for its flashy look. It remains a favorite for themed parties and retro bar menus.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Green Crème de Menthe – minty sweetness and vivid color.
- Banana Liqueur – tropical fruit layer that bridges mint and tequila.
- Tequila – crisp spirit backbone with a peppery finish.
Equipment
- Shot glass
- Bar spoon for layering
Why You’ll Love It
This shooter delivers contrast: cool mint up front, sweet banana in the middle, and tequila’s heat to finish. It’s fast, fun, and impossible not to notice.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap peppermint schnapps for a sharper mint edge.
- Try a banana-flavored vodka if you want less sweetness.
- Use a silver tequila for a cleaner, drier top layer.
Helpful Tips
- Chill all ingredients to help layers stay defined.
- Pour each layer slowly over the back of a spoon.
- Serve immediately for the best visual and flavor balance.
Z-28 Recipe
Type of Glass
Shot Glass
Ingredients
- 1/3 oz.
- 1/3 oz. Banana Liqueur
- 1/3 oz. Jose Cuervo® Tequila
Directions
- Pour Green Crème de Menthe into a shot glass.
- Using the back of a bar spoon, gently layer the Banana Liqueur over the mint layer.
- Finish by slowly floating the Tequila on top.
The Z-28 Shooter turns simple ingredients into a colorful party moment — a mint-meets-banana shot that’s as easy to make as it is to remember.
