Lemon Drop Martini

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Citrusy, sour and sweet, the Lemon Drop Martini will satisfy and refresh your senses.

Have you ever heard of a “fern bar”? Believe it or not, at some point you’ve probably dined with friends or family at a famous chain of eateries that began its life as one of the very first fern bars, T.G.I. Fridays. That’s right, the first location of these popular kitschy restaurants was also one of the original fern bars.

But what is that exactly? To begin with, the name of these types of bars came from the décor. Fern bars began popping up in the 1970s, and were known to be furnished with Tiffany lamps and, like the name suggests, large potted ferns and other such foliage. These establishments typically catered to upscale and preppy patrons, commonly referred to in the 1980s as “yuppies”. And most fern bars were often associated with the singles scene. If you were young, successful and unattached during the Me Decade, you were probably having cocktails at a fern bar.

Now the question is, what would you be imbibing at one of these swanky-looking taverns? Tonight’s beverage just might be the answer. The Lemon Drop Martini was invented during the 1970s by Norman Jay Hobday at his own fern bar in San Francisco, named Henry Africa’s. Hobday combined vodka citron, triple sec and fresh lemon juice in a shaker to create a tart and sweet, almost candy-like cocktail.

Even though the fern bars of the seventies have gone the way of the pet rock, the Lemon Drop Martini has survived and continues to be enjoyed to this day. In 2024, former British Prime Minister Sir John Major revealed in an interview that he’s a fan of the drink. You don’t need to be single, swanky or a Sir to enjoy this tipple. All you need is a craving for a fine and fun recipe.

Is the Lemon Drop Martini an Actual Martini?

Technically, no. A martini is traditionally gin and dry vermouth, stirred and served straight up. Using vodka is also a very popular variation, although many purists will tell you that only gin and vermouth can officially be a martini.

What is the Best Vodka to Use in A Lemon Drop Martini?

Vodka citron is highly recommended when making this drink. You could use an unflavored vodka instead, and while this will still give you a sweet and lemony sipper, the taste will be a little more subtle. The citron though will help bring the lemon notes right to the forefront, without being too overpowering.

What Glassware and Garnish Is Used?

Chill a martini or a cocktail glass in your freezer for fifteen to thirty minutes. Line the rim of your glass with sugar and garnish with a lemon wheel or twist to complete that citrusy vibe.

Has this Cocktail Received any accolades or recognition?

The Lemon Drop Martini has the distinction of being included on the IBA’s list of cocktails, as part of the New Era Drinks category.

Similar Cocktails to the Lemon Drop Martini

Now that we know what a fern bar is, let’s throw a themed party, shall we? All of your friends will show up in earth tones, rocking stylish shaggy hairstyles and wondering what everyone is going to be drinking. You’ve got the Lemon Drop Martini recipe memorized, so now you just need a few more cocktails that would be right at home in the swinging singles scene of the 1970s. Check these out and give them a try.

• Harvey Wallbanger – Vodka and orange juice topped with Galliano help make this Harvey a memorable one.
• Frozen Daiquiri – One of the classic rum drink’s most popular variations.
• Piña Colada – A drink so good it inspired a song that never leaves your head.
• White Wine Spritzer – If Ned Flanders can have a wild time with this drink, so can you.