Boston Iced Tea at Red Lobster is a refreshing cocktail made with vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, sweet and sour mix, and cola.
Boston Iced Tea at Red Lobster is a refreshing tropical cocktail that combines rum, amaretto, and fruit juices. This signature drink stands out on the beverage menu with its vibrant color and balanced sweet-tart flavor profile. Unlike traditional Long Island Iced Tea, Red Lobster’s Boston version offers a unique twist perfect for seafood pairings.
The Ingredients in Red Lobster’s Boston Iced Tea
While Red Lobster keeps their exact recipe proprietary, our research reveals the key components:
- Light rum – Provides the alcoholic base
- Amaretto liqueur – Adds almond notes
- Cranberry juice – Creates the signature tartness
- Orange juice – Balances with citrus sweetness
- Simple syrup – Adjusts sweetness level
- Orange slice garnish – Completes the presentation
The cocktail typically contains 1.5-2 ounces of alcohol total, making it moderately strong at about 200 calories per serving. For those interested in making juice-based cocktails at home, check out our guide to the best blender for mixed drinks.
How Boston Iced Tea Differs From Other Tea Cocktails
Comparison to Long Island Iced Tea
While both are tea-named cocktails, Boston Iced Tea differs significantly:
| Feature | Boston Iced Tea | Long Island Iced Tea |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Content | 2 types (rum + amaretto) | 5 types (vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec) |
| Flavor Profile | Fruity, tropical | Strong, boozy |
| Color | Red/pink from cranberry | Light brown |
Why It Pairs Well With Seafood
The Boston Iced Tea’s citrus and berry notes complement Red Lobster’s menu perfectly:
- Acidity cuts through rich buttery sauces
- Sweetness balances spicy Cajun flavors
- Fruit flavors enhance shrimp and lobster
Nutritional Information
Based on available data, a standard Boston Iced Tea contains:
- 200-250 calories
- 20-30g sugar
- 1.5-2oz alcohol
For those watching their sugar intake, consider asking for:
- Half the simple syrup
- Extra ice to dilute sweetness
- Fresh lime instead of orange garnish
How to Make a Boston Iced Tea at Home
While not identical to Red Lobster’s version, this homemade recipe captures the essence:
- Fill a shaker with ice
- Add 1 oz light rum and 0.5 oz amaretto
- Add 2 oz cranberry juice and 1 oz orange juice
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds
- Strain into ice-filled glass
- Garnish with orange slice
For optimal results, use freshly squeezed juices. Our review of the best commercial orange juicer machines can help achieve bar-quality results.
Boston Iced Tea Variations to Try
Mixologists have created several tasty variations:
Winter Spice Version
Add cinnamon syrup and float dark rum
Summer Berry Twist
Muddle fresh raspberries before shaking
Virgin Mocktail
Replace alcohol with ginger ale and extra citrus
According to AllRecipes, the cranberry-orange combination makes this drink exceptionally refreshing. As one reviewer noted, “The tea is not only extremely delicious, but very attractive as well.”
When to Order Boston Iced Tea at Red Lobster
This cocktail works particularly well:
- With appetizers like coconut shrimp
- During summer patio dining
- As a festive holiday drink
- When craving something sweet but not cloying
For those interested in other tropical drinks, Red Lobster’s menu includes similar offerings like their Mango Mai Tai featuring mango Malibu rum.
