The Greyhound is a classic yet elegant cocktail where the pleasantly bitter notes of grapefruit blend seamlessly with vodka (originally gin). A touch of sugar syrup softens the flavor, creating a refreshing and refined drink. It’s the perfect choice for a warm summer afternoon or a lively evening gathering.
Story
The Greyhound cocktail first appeared in the 1930s, with gin as its original spirit. By the 1950s, however, vodka had begun its rapid rise in the United States, gradually overtaking other liquors in popularity. Post House restaurants, which operated at Greyhound bus stations—the largest bus company in the country with more than 3,700 stops—started serving the drink with vodka, a version that quickly replaced gin. Over the years, many variations emerged. Whether you try it with rosemary, salt, or even beer, the Greyhound always promises a distinctive experience.
Ingredients
1 ½ oz (45 ml) vodka
1 ½ oz (45 ml) freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
1 teaspoon natural sugar syrup
How to Make a Greyhound Cocktail
Fill a glass with ice, then add the vodka and grapefruit juice. Stir thoroughly with a bar spoon until the drink is well mixed. A shaker isn’t necessary for this cocktail.
Serving and Garnish
The Greyhound cocktail is usually served in a lowball or highball glass. For garnish, place a slice of grapefruit on the rim, or add a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic twist. If neither is on hand, a simple lime wedge works just as well.
Calorie Content
A single Greyhound cocktail contains about 130–140 calories, coming mainly from the natural sugars in the grapefruit, the vodka, and the added syrup.