This passionate fruit is the signature flavor of summer

A few years ago, I was in London on assignment and discovered everyone everywhere was drinking something called the This martini, a tart spin on a flavor reminiscent of the Cosmopolitan, and includes vanilla vodka, passion fruit liqueur, passion fruit puree, vanilla syrup, and lime juice (there’s often also a floater of Champagne or other sparkling wine). Passion fruit was the central flavor of this delicious cocktail, and apparently, these London bars were onto something because now, passion fruit is everywhere.

In fact, according to recent findings from Global Market Insights, the passion fruit extract market was valued at $694.8 million in 2024 and to grow over 8.4% through 2034.

So, it’s not that surprising that passion fruit is being seen everywhere on menus this summer, as it’s so perfect for the season with its tropical and rather sexy feel, and we’re seeing it in so many diverse ways, from martinis to desserts.

One great example is the Lei Sai at at , which feels somewhat reminiscent of the aforementioned Pornstar Martini, made with El Tesoro Blanco Tequila, passion fruit, vanilla, and, of course, Prosecco as a floater. That tequila-for-vodka swap is sure to lead to a fun evening.

In sunny South Florida – where passion fruit has been popular on menus far longer than any trend, Fort Lauderdale-based offers a Passion Paradise cocktail, featuring Volcan Blanco Tequila, passionfruit, vanilla, and citrus.

“Passion fruit is having a moment this summer thanks to its vibrant balance of sweet and tangy, bringing a tropical punch that instantly transports you. Its bold flavor pairs effortlessly with spirits like tequila, making it a go-to for bright, exotic cocktails that feel both refreshing and indulgent,” said Tony Boukhari, The Restaurant People, Director of Beverage.

Over at Mykos in Northvale, New Jersey, Crete’s Secret is a fresh and modern martini, incorporating fresh mint and cucumber, Dirty Pelican’s Mango Passionfruit mix, lemon, Chinola Mango liqueur and Ketel One Botanical. Lead mixologist Samantha Rojas says this martini “celebrates herbs and fresh ingredients in their purest form.”

For those who want to have something passionate on their plate, the shrimp ceviche , uses passion fruit blended with fresh shrimp, diced coconut, peppers and corn tostadas.

“Right now, people are drawn to flavors that feel like an escape, and maracuyá (passion fruit) delivers that sense of tropical indulgence in every sip,” said Ulises Alvarez, Bar Manager at Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya. “It has this irresistible brightness that elevates any cocktail—it’s exotic, tangy, and instantly refreshing. It’s the flavor of summer done right.”

For the more dessert minded, the Artisanal Passion Fruit & Basil Jam at or the Passion Fruit Mousse at feature passion fruit as a sweet ending. Or, back in South Florida at The Restaurant People hospitality group, there’s the Passion Fruit Panna Cotta, a sweet dessert made with macerated strawberry, mango lime curd, and strawberry milk streusel.

“Passion fruit brings a sunny, tart contrast to creamy panna cotta, making it the perfect pair for summer desserts. Its tropical acidity cuts through richness while pairing beautifully with seasonal fruits, creating a layered, refreshing finish that feels indulgent yet light. This flavor is everywhere right now because it satisfies both sweet tooths and warm-weather cravings,” said Martin Verano, The Restaurant People Corporate Chef.

For those not traveling this summer, there’re creative ways to enjoy the flavors of passion fruit right at home. One great example is the just-in-time for summer collaboration between Chinola, and Tipsy Scoop to create a that features a swirl of Chinola Pineapple with Passion Fruit Sorbet infused with Chinola Passion Fruit. It’s frozen and bright and boozy – a perfect dessert option for July 4th barbecues.