Lemon, Lime, and Bitters

Lemon, Lime, and Bitters (LLB) is a classic Australian nonalcoholic cocktail often made with sparkling lemonade, lime cordial, and aromatic bitters. The bright, fizzy drink is a favorite at pubs, golf clubs, and backyard gatherings across Australia.

The drink strikes a rare balance: lemon and lime bring sharp, refreshing acidity, a touch of sweetness keeps it easygoing, and Angostura bitters add warmth and spice, making each sip taste refreshingly complex. Our version swaps the bottled, presweetened juices for fresh citrus and soda water, allowing you to tailor it even further to your tastes.

Tips for a better LLB

How do I keep it fizzy?
Cold club soda will hold on to its bubbles longer, so be sure to chill it before mixing and fill your glass with plenty of ice.

Is Lemon, Lime, and Bitters alcoholic?
This drink contains a small amount of alcohol from the bitters. Per The Epicurious Cocktail ABV Calculator, the ABV is roughly 0.6%—slightly higher than commercially produced kombucha. If you’d prefer a totally alcohol-free drink, use spirit-free aromatic bitters, such as those from All the Bitter or Dram.

Can I make it ahead of time?
This drink is best made right before sipping, but you could mix the freshly squeezed citrus juice, simple syrup, and bitters up to 3 hours ahead. Add the sparkling water just before serving. (To make the simple syrup, mix equal parts sugar and water in a blender until sugar is fully dissolved. Refrigerate, tightly sealed, up to 5 days.)

Can I swap the club soda for seltzer?
Club soda and seltzer aren’t the same thing. Club soda contains minerals, including salt, which is what makes the bubbly water pair so well with cocktails; the salt intensifies and balances the flavors in a drink. If you opt for seltzer instead, stir a pinch of salt into the citrus juices until dissolved, then mix.

Can I substitute the citrus? Or use different bitters?
Yes—grapefruit, tangerine, or a mix of citrus juices can give the drink a different flavor profile. Swapping out the bitters is also an option: Use Peychaud’s to give the drink an anisey profile or orange bitters to lean further into citrus. Meanwhile, celery bitters would give the drink an herbal backbone. Experiment to find your favorite combination.