The Applebee’s Shark Bowl is as fun to drink as it is to look at. With its eye-catching blue color, tropical flavors, and playful gummy shark garnish, it’s a cocktail that turns any gathering into an instant party. Whether you’re recreating this restaurant favorite at home or looking for a refreshing, fruity drink with a little bite, this recipe has you covered.
Applebees Shark Bowl
What Does It Taste Like?
This cocktail is a tropical treat in a glass. It’s sweet, slightly tart, and bursting with flavors of pineapple, citrus, and a hint of smooth rum and vodka. It reminds me of sipping a fruity drink on the beach—cool, refreshing, and just the right amount of kick.
What You’ll Need
Equipment:
– Fishbowl glass (or a large stemless wine glass)
– Mixing spoon
– Ice
Ingredients:
– 1 oz (30ml) rum
– 1 oz (30ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15ml) blue curaçao
– 2 oz (60ml) pineapple juice
– 2 oz (60ml) lemonade
– 1 gummy shark (for garnish)
How to Make It
- Fill your glass with ice. This keeps the drink cold and refreshing.
- Pour in the rum and vodka.
- Add the blue curaçao—this gives the drink its signature ocean-blue color.
- Mix in the pineapple juice and lemonade. Stir well to combine.
- Drop in a gummy shark for a fun finishing touch.
Tips for the Best Shark Bowl
– For a lighter version, swap the lemonade for sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
– If you want an extra tropical twist, use coconut rum instead of regular rum.
– Make it extra fun by adding a little dry ice (handle with care!) for a bubbling, misty effect.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix everything except the ice ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just pour it over fresh ice when you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
The fruity sweetness of this drink pairs well with:
– Spicy appetizers (like buffalo wings) to balance out the heat.
– Grilled seafood—the tropical notes complement the smoky flavors.
– Classic bar snacks like chicken tenders or nachos for a casual pairing.
Variations to Try
Tropical Storm
– Add mango nectar and a splash of grenadine for a sunset effect.
Berry Reef
– Swap the vodka for raspberry vodka and add cranberry juice for a berry twist.
Green Lagoon
– Use Midori instead of blue curaçao for a bright green color.
Non-Alcoholic Version
For a kid-friendly or alcohol-free option, mix pineapple juice, lemonade, and a splash of blue sports drink. Garnish with a gummy shark for the same fun look!
Common Questions
Can I make this in a big batch?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and serve it in a punch bowl with a ladle.
What if I don’t have blue curaçao?
You can use a splash of blue sports drink or just skip it—the drink will taste great either way!
How do I make it less sweet?
Use fresh lemon juice instead of lemonade and add a little sparkling water.
What other juices can I use?
Mango, passionfruit, or even orange juice work well for a different twist.
This cocktail is always a hit when I make it for friends, especially on warm summer nights. It’s fun, colorful, and delicious—what’s not to love?
