An experience for the senses where the valley meets Vaucluse, The Botanica on Laguna Street presents a leafy dining oasis to feed the soul inside and out. A relaxed restaurant space creates ambient dining through walls covered with plant murals and the odd peacock, along with dusky pink chairs and wooden table settings complemented by ornamental touches.
Mixologist Daniel Celis recommends ordering the Lychee Rose Martini next time you drop by:
"If you ask me, the Lychee Rose Martini tastes like a garden party hosted by your most elegant friend - floral, refreshing and just boozy enough to feel like a treat. The smoothness of Tito’s vodka lets the rose and lychee take centre stage, like a well-dressed duo at golden hour,” he explains.
"It’s the kind of cocktail that makes you sit a little straighter and smile a little softer - especially when paired with the lush, leafy backdrop of Botanica’s dreamy setting.”
Daniel says this drink is more than just a cocktail - it's a celebration of local, sustainable craftsmanship.
"Its delicate floral notes are elevated by edible flowers sourced from Newcastle Greens, a boutique farm in Cooranbong. Renowned for its organic practices, Newcastle Greens grows all produce in soil without the use of chemicals, ensuring each bloom is as pure as it is beautiful.”
This commitment to organic farming mirrors The Botanica Vaucluse's dedication to fresh, garden-inspired experiences. By incorporating these locally grown flowers, the cocktail not only offers a unique taste but also embodies the venue's ethos of sustainability and connection to nature.
"Sipping this Martini, you're not just enjoying a drink - you're partaking in a story of local collaboration and environmental mindfulness.
"We kept the name Lychee Rose Martini because sometimes simplicity says it best. The name is familiar, elegant and instantly evocative - it tells you exactly what you’re getting, while still leaving room for surprise in the details.
"At The Botanica Vaucluse, it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but refining it: using organic edible flowers, housemade rose and cherry blossom syrup and Tito’s smooth vodka. It’s the classic you know, elevated with thoughtful, local touches - just like everything we do here.”
Try this cocktail on a Friday afternoon to relax after a long and stressful work week. Alternatively, you could take the party home and concoct the
perfect drink to usher in the weekend.
Don’t forget to check out our Cocktail of the Week series, where each Friday we highlight a cheeky creation to tantalise tastebuds and set the tone for good times.
