The Lychee Martini brings together elegance and tropical charm. First poured in New York’s upscale bars in the late 1990s, it quickly found fans who wanted something a little sweeter and more adventurous than the classic martini. With its light floral aroma, juicy lychee flavor, and crystal-clear look, it feels both refined and a bit exotic.

It’s also a drink that fits beautifully into an Indian table. Lychee has long been enjoyed across India, whether eaten fresh in summer or served in desserts, and here it takes on a new form. All you need is vodka, lychee juice or syrup, and a hint of citrus to lift the flavors. The result is a cocktail that’s simple, refreshing, and just different enough to impress.

Why You’ll Love This

Exotic twist on the classic martini
Only 4 ingredients, quick to make
Elegant presentation for parties or date nights
Sweet, floral, and refreshing flavor
Easy to batch for groups

Print Recipe

Lychee Martini

The Lychee Martini is a tropical cocktail made with vodka, lychee syrup, and a splash of citrus. Sweet, floral, and elegant, it’s perfect for entertaining or a special night in.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Lychee Martini

Servings: Cocktail

Calories: 165kcal

Ingredients

2 oz 60 ml vodka
1 oz 30 ml lychee juice (or syrup from canned lychees)
½ oz 15 ml lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Ice cubes
To Garnish
Whole lychee fresh or canned
Lime twist optional

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Fill the shaker: Add vodka, lychee juice, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake it cold: Shake for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
Strain and pour: Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish and serve: Drop in a lychee or add a lime twist. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ingredient Swaps:

Use gin instead of vodka for a herbal twist.
Swap lime juice with lemon juice if preferred.

Technique Tips:

Chill your martini glass beforehand for best presentation.
Shake until the shaker feels frosty for a well-chilled drink.

Make-Ahead & Storage:

Mix the base (vodka + lychee juice + Cointreau) in advance and refrigerate. Add lime and ice just before serving.

Serving Ideas:

Serve with Asian-inspired appetizers like spring rolls or dumplings.
Perfect for summer evenings, weddings, or cocktail parties.

Twist Ideas:

Add a splash of cranberry juice for color and tartness.
Infuse vodka with lychees overnight for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

FAQ

Can I use fresh lychees for this martini?
Yes—blend or muddle fresh lychees for a more natural flavor but strain the pulp before mixing.

What alcohol pairs best with lychee?
Vodka is the classic choice, but gin or rum also work beautifully.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes—replace vodka with soda water or tonic for a refreshing mocktail.

Is canned lychee okay for cocktails?
Absolutely. The syrup from canned lychees is sweet and flavorful, perfect for martinis.

The Lychee Martini is exotic yet approachable, a twist on the classic that’s floral, light, and a little playful. It’s the kind of cocktail that works just as well for a relaxed evening with friends as it does for a more polished occasion.

If you try this Lychee Martini, let me know how it went in the comments. And if you enjoy cocktails with global flair, follow Beyond Chutney for more: