Summer in New York may have its unfortunate moments (i.e. anytime we descend the subway stairs), but between rooftop gatherings, waterfront happy hours, and picnics in the park, we’re swiftly reminded of this season’s city splendor — while also being reminded of how short lived it is. In order to maximize the most leisurely and fleeting time of the year, it’s crucial to plan accordingly — right down to the cocktail in hand. Just in time for a summer Friday, we present five cocktails around town made for toasting high temperatures.

CARAMELIZED COLADA AT THE SKYLARK: Big flavors accompany the big views at this Garment District rooftop hangout, where bartender Johnny Swet delivers amped up classics, from root beer old-fashioneds to peach juleps — and the colada is no exception. For the all-time summer favorite, Swet fills a wine glass with Sailor Jerry rum, caramelized pineapple, pureed coconut, and a touch of water before garnishing the quick sipper with a pineapple wedge and cherry.

THE FORMULA 22 & THE PAPER TIGER AT PARLOR: Herbs are taking a starring role at this private, members only club in downtown Manhattan. Chamomile syrup rounds out Don Amado Reposado Mezcal and lime for the Formula 22, while dill serves as a highlight for the Paper Tiger, a shaken and strained concoction of Domaine Canton Ginger Liqueur, Ketel One Citroen, lemon juice, and celery bitters.

THE MEXICAN STANDOFF AT THE EAST POLE: Small-batch distilleries are the focus for the signature cocktail list at this Upper East Side eatery, where bartender Fernando Ruiz creates inventive spins on classics. For a spicy take on the margarita, Ruiz muddles grilled jalapeno before it meets a taste bud-awakening trio of tequila, orange bitters, and Esprit de June for the Mexican Standoff. The results are at once hot and tangy — a kind reminder of the season that is upon us.

THE UPTOWN AT MISS LILY'S 7A CAFE: For satisfying bites that don’t break the bank, head to Miss Lily’s 7A Café, where the team is dishing out the same simple and soulful fare (think jerk grilled corn and Jamaican patty melts) as they do at their sister Soho location. The drinks follow the food’s approachable suit: The Uptown shows up as a refreshing but tropical hybrid of Sailor Jerry rum, elderflower liqueur, Champagne, and lemon.

THE NANÁ COLADA AT BAR NANÁ: Between mojitos, pisco sours, and caipirinhas, any of the cocktails found on the menu at this South America meets Paris dining destination are bound to recall sunnier days. Take, for example, mixologist Gio Love’s Naná Colada: a brandied cherry and pineapple skewered Collins glass of Coco Lopez, pineapple juice, and Ron del Barrilito Three Star Rum.

By Nicole Schnitzler

(Photos From Left: Sailor Jerry Champion Bubbla at Miss Lily's 7a Cafe; Caramelized Colada at The Skylark; The Uptown at Miss Lily's 7a Cafe; Naná Colada at Bar Naná)