A bright, refreshing cocktail with a gorgeous red hue, the Red Lobster is as fun to drink as it is to make. It’s a perfect balance of tart cranberry, zesty lime, and a hint of sweetness, topped with a splash of bubbly club soda. Whether you’re sipping it by the beach or mixing up a batch for a get-together, this drink is always a crowd-pleaser.

Red Lobster
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that fresh lime juice makes all the difference—it gives the drink a crisp, vibrant kick that bottled juice just can’t match. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 4 oz (120ml) cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz (15ml) grenadine
- 1/2 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- Splash of club soda
- Ice
- Lime wheel or cherry for garnish
Best glass to use: A highball glass works best, letting the drink’s beautiful red color shine through. If you want a more elegant touch, a martini glass is a great alternative.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, grenadine, and lime juice.
- Shake well for about 10–15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda for a little fizz.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or cherry, and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Chill your glass before pouring the drink to keep it extra refreshing.
- Use fresh lime juice—it makes a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less grenadine. If you prefer a tart drink, cut back on the grenadine and use unsweetened cranberry juice.
- Want a lighter version? Swap club soda for sparkling water to reduce the sugar content.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can pre-mix the vodka, cranberry juice, grenadine, and lime juice in a pitcher and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just stir well before serving.
- If you’re making it for a party, prepare a big batch without the club soda, then add the fizz right before serving to keep it fresh.
Variations to Try
Blue Lobster
- Replace cranberry juice with blue curaçao for a stunning blue twist.
Spicy Lobster
- Add a small slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the shaker for a spicy kick.
Virgin Red Lobster
- Skip the vodka and add extra club soda for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.
What to Serve It With
This cocktail pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Grilled seafood – Shrimp, fish, or scallops complement the citrusy flavors.
- Spicy appetizers – The sweetness of the drink balances out heat from wings or jalapeño poppers.
- Light salads – A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing makes for a refreshing combo.
I love sipping this cocktail on a warm evening with a plate of grilled shrimp—it’s such a simple, satisfying way to unwind.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh is best, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice works—just use a little less since it can be more acidic.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less grenadine, or opt for an unsweetened cranberry juice.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a pitcher. Add club soda right before serving.
What’s the best garnish?
A lime wheel or cherry are classic, but a sprig of mint adds a nice touch too.
This Red Lobster cocktail is one of my go-to drinks when I want something easy, refreshing, and just a little fancy. Try it out, and don’t be afraid to tweak it to your taste! 🍹