Red Lobster Drink Recipe – Easy & Delicious Cocktail

Red Lobster Drink Recipe – Easy & Delicious Cocktail cocktail

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 cocktail

Red Lobster

Base

Rum

Alcohol

14%

Prep Time

5 minutes

Calories

210 kcal

Carbs

28g

Fat

0g

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

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, grenadine, and lime juice.
  2. Shake well for about 10–15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
  3. Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
  4. Top with a splash of club soda for a little fizz.
  5. 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! 🍹

Jake Morrison avatar
Jake Morrison
1 day ago