Kamikaze Cocktail

What is the difference between a Lemon Drop and a Kamikaze Cocktail?

The Lemon Drop and the Kamikaze feature vodka and citrus flavors, but key differences set them apart. First, the Lemon Drop uses lemon juice for its citrus component, while the Kamikaze opts for lime juice. This difference makes the Lemon Drop more tart compared to the zesty kick of the Kamikaze. Second, the Lemon Drop incorporates simple syrup to balance the tartness, whereas the Kamikaze uses Triple Sec, adding an orange-flavored sweetness. Additionally, bartenders often serve the Lemon Drop with a sugar rim on the glass, which is not a traditional feature of the Kamikaze. Finally, the Lemon Drop is generally served in a martini glass like the Kamikaze. Still, it’s more common to see the Lemon Drop served as a cocktail rather than a shooter, which is a popular format for the Kamikaze.

Kamikaze Shot

The Kamikaze typically finds its home in a martini glass, a choice that adds a touch of elegance to this straightforward drink. The wide brim of the martini glass allows the citrus aroma to waft up, enhancing the overall drinking experience. While you might also encounter the Kamikaze served as a shooter in a shot glass, especially at lively gatherings, the martini glass remains the classic choice. It’s not just about looks; the shape of the glass helps to evenly distribute the flavors across your palate as you sip. 

What is a Blue Kamikaze?

A Blue Kamikaze swaps out Triple Sec for blue curaçao, which gives the drink its distinctive blue color. This substitution also offers a slightly different orange flavor than the traditional Kamikaze. The blue hue makes it visually striking, and it’s often served both as a cocktail and as a shooter, similar to the classic Kamikaze. The primary alcohol remains vodka, and lime juice continues to provide the citrus kick.

Kamikaze Drink Variations

Want to explore other options? Check out some of our favorites:

• Tequila Kamikaze: Replaces vodka with tequila, introducing a more robust, earthy undertone.
• Melon Kamikaze: Incorporates Midori, a melon liqueur, instead of Triple Sec, lending a sweet melon twist to the classic.
• Raspberry Kamikaze: Utilizes raspberry liqueur like Chambord instead of Triple Sec, adding a berry burst of flavor.
• Gin Kamikaze: Swaps vodka for gin, infusing the drink with botanical notes that make it more complex.
• Spicy Kamikaze: Adds a dash of hot sauce or a slice of jalapeño, giving the drink a surprising kick.
• Lemon Kamikaze: Uses lemon juice instead of lime, making the drink a bit more tart and less zesty.
• Pomegranate Kamikaze: Incorporates pomegranate juice or liqueur instead of lime juice, adding a fruity and slightly tart edge.
• Peach Kamikaze: Features peach schnapps instead of Triple Sec, lending a sweet, fruity aroma and taste.
• Coconut Kamikaze: Includes coconut rum instead of regular vodka, giving the drink a tropical flair.
• Cherry Kamikaze: Utilizes cherry liqueur or cherry vodka instead of the standard vodka, adding a sweet and tart cherry note.
• Cranberry Kamikaze: Replaces lime juice with cranberry juice, offering a tart and slightly sweet alternative.
• Elderflower Kamikaze: Incorporates liqueur like St-Germain instead of Triple Sec, adding floral notes and a sophisticated touch.
• Mango Kamikaze: Uses mango juice or mango liqueur instead of lime juice, infusing the drink with tropical sweetness.
• Cucumber Kamikaze: Adds muddled cucumber to the shaker, providing a refreshing and crisp element to the traditional ingredients.

History and Origins of the Kamikaze

The Kamikaze cocktail emerged in the late 1970s, gaining popularity as a shooter in American bars and clubs. Its name, “Kamikaze,” draws inspiration from the Japanese word for “divine wind,” which historically referred to the typhoons that protected Japan from Mongol invasions and later became associated with World War II suicide pilots. While the name might suggest a Japanese origin, the cocktail has American roots.

The drink quickly became a staple in the American bar scene, especially among younger drinkers looking for something easy to make but still flavorful. The classic combination of vodka, Triple Sec, and lime juice made it a hit, and its simplicity contributed to its widespread appeal.

More Cocktails

Looking for more sour cocktails? Here are a few of our favorites:

• Sidecar
• Daiquiri
• Margarita
• Whiskey Sour
• Pisco Sour

Other cocktails we enjoy:

• Cuba Libre
• Grasshopper
• Sea Breeze
• Cosmopolitan
• Mai Tai
• Screwdriver
• Moscow Mule