Japanese Slipper Cocktail

A classic Japanese Slipper Cocktail made with Midori, Cointreau and fresh lemon. Learn its origins and how to make it perfectly at home.

With a name like Japanese Slipper, you’d be forgiven for thinking this cocktail was invented in a trendy Tokyo bar. But the truth is quite the opposite…and it’s one that makes me proud.

The Japanese Slipper Cocktail was created right here in Melbourne, Australia by a French bartender, Jean-Paul Bourguignon.

When you think about it, it’s not all that surprising. Melbourne is home to a vibrant multicultural food scene, world-class bars, and a nightlife culture that embraces international flavours.

This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy something sweet, fruity, sour and a little punchy. If you love bright, citrus-forward drinks, you might also enjoy my Amaretto Sour Cocktail or this refreshing Strawberry Mojito

Japanese Slipper is made for slow sipping and savouring, with flavours that feel surprisingly complex. And I say surprisingly because this is one of those cocktails that comes together in just two minutes, using only three key ingredients.

Fresh lemon juice provides that welcome tartness, the kind that stops us from downing it too quickly. Midori gives the drink its iconic green hue along with sweet, fruity melon notes, while Cointreau adds depth with refined citrus complexity.

You’ll also need plenty of ice, and if you’re a traditionalist, a maraschino cherry to finish.

As for me? I use what I have on hand. It happens to be cherry season, and my brother recently gifted us a box of plump cherries. I used one of those, and yes, I ate it. I’d probably leave the maraschino untouched… sorry!

What is a Japanese Slipper Cocktail?

A Japanese Slipper Cocktail is a bright, citrus-forward classic made with equal parts Midori, Cointreau and fresh lemon juice. It’s known for its vibrant green colour, balanced sweet-and-sour flavour, and how effortlessly it comes together.

Despite the name, this cocktail wasn’t created in Japan. It was invented in Melbourne, Australia by a French bartender named, Jean-Paul Bourguignon.

Ingredients you’ll need

Cointreau

Cointreau is a premium French orange liqueur made from sweet and bitter orange peels. It adds clean, balanced citrus flavour without being overly sweet, which is why it works so well in classic cocktails.

If you don’t have Cointreau, you can substitute it with Triple Sec for a lighter option, or Grand Marnier if you prefer a deeper, richer orange note.

Midori

Midori is a Japanese melon liqueur known for its vibrant green colour and lightly sweet, fruity flavour. It adds freshness and a subtle sweetness to cocktails without overpowering them, and it’s what gives the Japanese Slipper its signature colour and character.

If you don’t have Midori, you can substitute it with another green melon liqueur. The flavour will be similar, though the colour may be slightly less vibrant.

How to make a Japanese Slipper Cocktail

1. Add ice, lemon juice, Cointreau and Midori to a cocktail shaker. Seal and shake well until icy cold. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass, then garnish with a cherry.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

One of the best things about the Japanese Slipper Cocktail is how flexible it is. If you’re missing an ingredient or want to tweak it slightly, here are a few easy substitutions and variations.

Can I substitute Cointreau?

Yes. If you don’t have Cointreau, Triple Sec is the closest substitute and keeps the cocktail light and citrus-forward. Grand Marnier also works, though it will add a slightly richer, deeper orange flavour.

Fresh lemon juice vs bottled

Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended. It gives the cocktail its clean, bright tartness and balances the sweetness of the liqueurs. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but the flavour won’t be quite as fresh or vibrant.

Garnish swaps

A maraschino cherry is the traditional garnish, but you can easily switch it up. A fresh cherry, lemon twist, or even no garnish at all works beautifully.

Tips for the Perfect Japanese Slipper

Use equal parts – The Japanese Slipper works because it’s perfectly balanced. Measure carefully to keep the sweet, sour and citrus notes in harmony.

Always use fresh lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon makes a noticeable difference, adding brightness and preventing the cocktail from tasting flat or overly sweet.

Shake well with plenty of ice – A good shake properly chills the drink and slightly dilutes it, which softens the sweetness and gives a smoother finish.

Serve it ice-cold – This cocktail is best enjoyed straight from the shaker into a chilled glass, keeping it crisp and refreshing.

Taste and adjust if needed – If your lemon is extra tart, a touch more Midori can help. Small adjustments are perfectly fine.

Maraschino cherry (classic) The traditional finishing touch, adding a pop of colour and a hint of sweetness.

Fresh cherry (my personal favourite) When cherries are in season, I love using fresh ones. They feel lighter, more natural and yes, I always eat it.

Lemon twist A simple lemon twist adds a fresh citrus aroma and keeps the presentation clean and refined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Japanese Slipper Cocktail sweet?

This cocktail is on the sweet side, but well balanced. While it contains sweet liqueurs, the acidity from fresh lemon juice keeps it balanced rather than syrupy.

Is the Japanese Slipper a strong cocktail?

It’s a moderately strong cocktail, similar to a Margarita. Because it’s smooth and easy to drink, it’s one to sip slowly.

Can I make a Japanese Slipper ahead of time?

This cocktail is best made fresh. If needed, you can pre-mix the ingredients and store them chilled, then shake with ice just before serving.

What glass should a Japanese Slipper be served in?

Traditionally, it’s served in a chilled cocktail or coupe glass, but a martini glass works just as well.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes. If you prefer it less sweet, add a little extra lemon juice. For a sweeter version, slightly increase the Midori.

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Nutrition Information

Nutrition information is estimated using a third-party calculator and should be used as a guide only.

Australian Measurements

All measurements on this website use Australian standard cups and spoons. For conversion details see my Australian Cooking Measurements page.

I’d love your feedback!

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Cheers – Cat T