Lychee: The Fruit Of The Summer
Step Up Your Cocktail Game This Season With This Sweet Addition
Looking for a new flavor to sip on? We’ve got you covered. This summer, lychee is stealing the spotlight of the cocktail scene.
June and July are the peak months for lychees, and the small, aromatic fruit can be found populating trees across South Florida. Though a recent increase in production may signify the tropical delicacy’s youth, the flavorful treat has been consumed throughout the world for more than 2,000 years. With origins in China, lychee began to travel to Madagascar, Southeast Asia, the West Indies and South Africa alongside Chine emigrants in the 1800s. Today, lychees are one of the most prominent exotic fruits produced worldwide.
The lychee tree grows best in warm climates, making it a perfect resident of South Florida. Paying homage to the rich history and refreshing taste of the fruit, we are happy to sip on lychee beverages all summer long. With dining destinations across South Florida incorporating lychees into their signature cocktails, there are plenty of spots to choose from. Keep reading to find your favorite!
1. Lychee Martini at Louie Bossi’s
This Lychee Martini showcases lychee liqueur, Ketel One Vodka and simple syrup along with a twist of fresh lychee juice. Visit either the Boca Raton or Fort Lauderdale location to have a taste.
2. Astra to the Moon at Astra
Astra prides itself on more than its spectacular views of Miami sunsets; Astra to the Moon is a signature cocktail that you do not want to miss. This compilation of Grey Goose Vodka, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, lemon juice, lychee juice and a floater of Soho Liqueur in a chilled glass is simply heavenly.
3. Lychee Martini at Komodo
Elegant and sophisticated, just like all else at Komodo, the Lychee Martini fuses traditional spirits with Asian flavors to make a sweet and tasty cocktail.
4. Florita Del Alma at Toro Toro
The fruity flavor of lychee combines with pineapple, Malibu rum, aquafaba (a smooth, frothy liquid from chickpeas) and simple syrup in this beautiful beverage. Toro Toro does not disappoint with this notable addition to its cocktail menu.
5. Dragonesse at Phuc Yea
Created by Phuc Yea general manager and co-owner Aniece Meinhold, the Dragonesse is an original take on a Lychee Martini. The drink is made with lychee-infused dry vermouth, vodka, sherry and a splash of rose water. Cheers!
6. Lychee Crisp at Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill
Head to Miami for a beverage experience featuring the Lychee Crisp. This drink, curated by Chef and Partner Timon Balloo, is sure to pleasantly surprise with smooth tastes of Pisco Caravedo Acholada, strawberry puree, simple syrup, lemon juice and St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur.