Greyhound Recipe: If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s light, refreshing, and insanely easy to make, the Greyhound is calling your name. With just two ingredients—vodka (or gin) and grapefruit juice—this citrusy highball cocktail brings a burst of tart and tangy goodness with every sip. It’s perfect for lazy Sunday brunches, summer evenings, or whenever you want something simple but satisfying in your glass.
The beauty of the Greyhound lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a mixologist or have an arsenal of expensive liquors. In fact, if you have a bottle of vodka and a couple of grapefruits, you’re more than halfway there. And the best part? You can easily customize it to fit your mood or occasion.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk through every detail—from the ingredients and tools you’ll need to clever variations, pairing suggestions, and even common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a cocktail newbie or a seasoned sipper, this guide will help you master the art of the Greyhound.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a Greyhound cocktail, the ingredients list is delightfully short and sweet. This isn’t one of those drinks that require a dozen liqueurs and rare bitters. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 oz Vodka (or Gin, depending on your preference)
- 4 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
- Ice Cubes
Optional Ingredients:
- Simple Syrup (if you want a sweeter version)
- Salt (for a rim if you’re turning it into a Salty Dog)
- Fresh Grapefruit Wedge or Slice (for garnish)
- Rosemary Sprig or Mint Leaves (for an herbal twist)
Notes on Quality:
- Vodka: Go for a clean, smooth brand—nothing too harsh. Think Tito’s, Ketel One, or even Absolut. If you’re a gin lover, brands like Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire work beautifully.
- Grapefruit Juice: Fresh-squeezed is a game-changer. It’s tangier, brighter, and way more flavorful than store-bought versions. If you do go for bottled juice, make sure it’s 100% pure juice with no added sugar or preservatives.
- Ice: Use large, fresh ice cubes. Small or old cubes melt quickly and water down your drink faster.
This basic ingredient list is all you need to whip up a Greyhound in minutes. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little once you get the classic down—you’ll be surprised how versatile this drink can be.
Essential Bar Tools
You don’t need a fancy home bar setup to make a Greyhound, but having the right tools will make the process smoother and the drink better. Let’s talk about the essentials:
Must-Have Tools:
- Highball Glass or Collins Glass: The traditional Greyhound is served in a tall glass. A highball or Collins glass is ideal because it allows room for plenty of ice and juice.
- Jigger: This helps you measure your alcohol precisely. The standard Greyhound calls for 2 oz of vodka or gin. A jigger ensures consistency.
- Bar Spoon or Stir Stick: Since this is a stirred—not shaken—cocktail, a simple bar spoon is all you need to mix the drink thoroughly without diluting it.
- Citrus Juicer: If you’re using fresh grapefruit, a manual or electric juicer will make your life much easier. Trust us, your hands will thank you after squeezing a few grapefruits.
Optional But Handy:
- Cocktail Shaker: Not typically used for a Greyhound, but if you like your drink colder and slightly frothier, a quick shake with ice works.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: If you’re squeezing grapefruit juice directly into the glass, this helps remove seeds and pulp for a smoother sip.
- Salt Rimmer: If you’re making a Salty Dog (Greyhound with a salted rim), a proper rimmer makes the process easier and cleaner.
With just a few simple tools, you’re more than ready to whip up a cocktail that looks and tastes like it was crafted by a pro.
A Little History of the Greyhound Cocktail
The Greyhound isn’t just a modern bar favorite—it’s got a bit of old-school charm behind it too. This drink dates back to at least the 1930s and has seen its fair share of changes over the years. In fact, its earliest known appearance was in a cookbook by Harry Craddock, one of the most famous bartenders of the time. But it really gained popularity when it popped up on menus at Greyhound bus station cafes (hence the name) in the mid-20th century.
Back then, gin was the original spirit of choice. Vodka hadn’t yet claimed the throne in American bars. As vodka started rising in popularity in the 1950s and 60s, many drinkers made the switch, and today, vodka is the most common base for a Greyhound.
Interestingly, the drink has always been known for its no-fuss, minimalist vibe. During the post-Prohibition era, people wanted simple, tasty cocktails they could easily make at home. The Greyhound was the answer: grapefruit juice and spirit. That’s it.
So while the Greyhound may not be as flashy as a Cosmopolitan or as storied as a Martini, its roots are solid, and its legacy continues. It’s survived decades of cocktail trends because it nails the basics: easy to make, refreshing to drink, and endlessly adaptable.
Choosing the Right Vodka or Gin
Picking the right spirit is the secret sauce to making a Greyhound that truly hits the spot. Even though there are only two ingredients, the flavor of your vodka or gin plays a massive role in how the final drink tastes.
Vodka for a Smooth, Clean Greyhound
Vodka is the go-to base for most Greyhound drinkers. It has a neutral profile that lets the tart, slightly bitter notes of the grapefruit juice shine. You’ll want a vodka that’s crisp, smooth, and free of harsh aftertastes. Here are some solid choices:
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka – Clean and slightly sweet
- Ketel One – Smooth, with a peppery finish
- Belvedere – Ultra-smooth, a bit floral
- Smirnoff – Budget-friendly and consistent
Avoid flavored vodkas unless you’re intentionally adding a twist. Citrus vodka could work if you want an extra zesty pop, but vanilla or fruity vodkas might clash with the grapefruit.
Gin for a Botanical Kick
If you’re feeling a little adventurous or just prefer something more complex, gin is a fantastic alternative. The botanicals in gin—juniper, citrus peel, coriander, and more—create a layered, aromatic cocktail that plays well with the grapefruit’s tartness. Some great options:
- Bombay Sapphire – Light, floral, and smooth
- Tanqueray – Strong juniper, bold taste
- Hendrick’s – Subtle cucumber and rose flavors
- Beefeater – A good balance of spice and citrus
Gin Greyhounds are more aromatic and flavorful but slightly less smooth than the vodka version. Both are delicious—it’s just a matter of personal preference.
Pro Tip:
If you’re serving guests, offer both versions. Let them pick their poison—vodka for clean and crisp, or gin for botanical and bold.
Best Grapefruit Juice for the Perfect Greyhound
Let’s get one thing straight: the grapefruit juice can make or break your Greyhound. With only two main ingredients, this isn’t the time to settle for low-quality juice. Whether you’re squeezing it yourself or grabbing a bottle off the shelf, aim for the freshest, most flavorful juice possible.
Fresh-Squeezed Grapefruit Juice
If you’ve got a few minutes and some ripe grapefruits, fresh juice is the gold standard. It’s vibrant, tangy, and has that natural zing you just can’t bottle. You’ll also notice the texture is smoother and less processed, which makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Red Grapefruit: Sweetest option, less tart
- Pink Grapefruit: Balanced sweetness and tang
- White Grapefruit: More bitter and sharp
Pink is generally the best choice for a classic Greyhound—it’s refreshing with a nice balance of sweet and sour. Just remember to strain out the seeds and pulp for a smoother drink.
Store-Bought Juice Options
Not everyone has the time (or patience) to squeeze fresh juice. Luckily, there are decent bottled options out there—but you need to read the labels carefully.
Look for:
- 100% pure grapefruit juice
- No added sugars or syrups
- Cold-pressed or not-from-concentrate options
Some reliable brands include:
- Lakewood Organic
- Simply Grapefruit
- Tropicana Pure Premium
Avoid:
Cocktail blends or juices that contain added sweeteners and artificial flavors. These tend to make the drink overly sweet and mask the citrus sharpness you want in a Greyhound.
Step-by-Step Greyhound Cocktail Recipe
Ready to make the perfect Greyhound? Let’s get into the fun part. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be sipping like a pro in no time.
1. Chill Your Glass
Before you even start pouring, pop your highball or Collins glass into the freezer for a few minutes. A cold glass keeps your drink crisp and refreshing longer.
2. Add Ice
Once your glass is chilled, fill it about 3/4 full with fresh ice cubes. Don’t skimp on the ice—this is what keeps your drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
3. Pour the Vodka or Gin
Measure out 2 oz of your preferred spirit using a jigger. Pour it directly over the ice.
4. Add Grapefruit Juice
Top it off with 4 oz of fresh or high-quality grapefruit juice. The juice should be cold—room temp juice will melt the ice faster and water down your drink.
5. Stir Gently
Use a bar spoon or long stirrer to gently mix the drink. You want everything to combine smoothly without killing the carbonation (if you’re using sparkling juice or adding soda later).
6. Garnish and Serve
Add a slice of grapefruit or a small wedge on the rim for a classy touch. You can also toss in a sprig of rosemary or mint for extra aroma.
And boom—you’ve just made a classic Greyhound cocktail. Easy, fast, and oh-so-refreshing.
How to Salt the Rim – Make It a Salty Dog
Want to give your Greyhound a savory edge? Just salt the rim, and voilà—you’ve got yourself a Salty Dog. This simple twist adds an entirely new layer of flavor to the drink, turning it from bright and citrusy to balanced and a little briny. It’s amazing how one ingredient can totally shift the vibe.
When Should You Salt the Rim?
Salt works best when you want to take the edge off the grapefruit’s natural bitterness. It softens the sour bite and adds depth to the cocktail. If you’re serving the drink to someone new or not a fan of super tart flavors, the salted rim is the way to go.
How to Do It Right – Step-by-Step
- Prep the Glass: Take a lime or grapefruit wedge and run it around the rim of your glass to moisten it. This helps the salt stick.
- Salt It Up: Pour coarse salt onto a small plate. Dip the rim of the glass into the salt and rotate it gently until it’s coated evenly. Tap off any excess.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice just like you would with a regular Greyhound.
- Build Your Drink: Pour in your vodka or gin, add grapefruit juice, stir gently, and garnish.
What Kind of Salt Works Best?
- Kosher Salt: The classic choice—mild, clean, and clings well.
- Himalayan Pink Salt: Adds a subtle mineral flavor and a stunning visual twist.
- Sea Salt: Great for a slightly brinier taste.
Avoid iodized table salt—it’s too fine and often tastes metallic. Always go for something with texture and flavor.
A Salty Dog isn’t just a Greyhound with flair—it’s a different experience entirely. If you love margaritas, salty snacks, or anything savory-citrusy, this twist is a must-try.
Mocktail Version: Non-Alcoholic Greyhound
Want to enjoy all the refreshing vibes of a Greyhound without the booze? Say hello to the Non-Alcoholic Greyhound, aka the Virgin Greyhound. It’s the same bright citrus experience but perfect for mornings, designated drivers, or anyone skipping alcohol without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients for a Virgin Greyhound:
- 4 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
- 2 oz Sparkling Water or Club Soda
- Ice Cubes
- Optional Sweetener: A dash of simple syrup or honey if you prefer it a bit sweeter
- Garnish: Grapefruit wedge or mint sprig
How to Make It:
- Fill your glass with ice.
- Pour in the fresh grapefruit juice.
- Top with sparkling water or soda.
- Add a splash of sweetener (optional, but nice if your juice is very tart).
- Garnish and enjoy!
This version is bubbly, fresh, and surprisingly sophisticated for a mocktail. It’s also a great option for kids or brunch guests who aren’t drinking.
Want a Fancy Twist?
Add a splash of cranberry juice or muddle some fresh basil leaves before pouring in the juice. Mocktails don’t have to be boring, and this one proves it.
Greyhound Variations You Should Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic Greyhound, it’s time to get creative. This cocktail is like a blank canvas—you can add a splash of this, a dash of that, and come up with your own signature version.
Here are some killer Greyhound variations that keep things exciting:
1. The Sparkling Greyhound
Top your Greyhound with a bit of sparkling water or tonic for some fizz. It lightens the drink and adds a refreshing sparkle.
2. The Frozen Greyhound Slush
Perfect for hot summer days:
- Blend grapefruit juice and vodka with ice until smooth.
- Serve in a large glass with a straw.
- Garnish with a slice of lime or mint.
It’s like a boozy adult smoothie.
3. Greyhound with Rosemary or Basil
Muddle fresh herbs in the bottom of your glass before adding ice and liquor. Rosemary adds a piney kick; basil brings a sweet, peppery note.
4. Spicy Greyhound
Infuse your vodka with jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to the drink. This is for the adventurous drinkers who like a little heat with their citrus.
5. Greyhound with Flavored Vodka
Try citrus, raspberry, or even cucumber-flavored vodka for a twist on the classic. Just remember, the more flavored your vodka, the more careful you need to be with your grapefruit juice balance.
The best part about the Greyhound? It plays nice with almost any creative twist. Experiment with your pantry or garden—who knows what combo might become your new favorite!
Food Pairings with Greyhound Cocktails
Wondering what to munch on while sipping your Greyhound? Since this cocktail is bright, citrusy, and slightly bitter, it pairs best with fresh, light foods. Think brunch-style bites, seafood, and anything that complements its acidity.
Great Pairing Ideas:
- Smoked Salmon on Toast: The salty richness of smoked salmon contrasts beautifully with the tart grapefruit.
- Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes: Creamy, spicy, and citrus-friendly.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Classic seafood and a classic cocktail—a match made in heaven.
- Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a touch of olive oil work wonderfully with grapefruit juice.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: The citrus flavors of the drink complement grilled meats well.
Snacky Options:
- Marcona Almonds
- Crispy Chickpeas
- Bruschetta with Goat Cheese
- Citrus-Marinated Olives
Desserts? Yes, Please.
Pair your Greyhound with a lemon tart, grapefruit sorbet, or even a vanilla panna cotta. The drink’s acidity cuts through creamy desserts like a dream.
Just avoid overly sweet or heavy foods—they can dull the bright, zesty flavor of the cocktail.
Greyhound Cocktail for Brunches and Parties
Hosting a brunch or cocktail party? The Greyhound is a secret weapon for entertaining. It’s easy to batch, light enough for day drinking, and elegant enough to impress guests without you spending hours playing bartender. Whether you’re doing a casual garden brunch or a more upscale gathering, the Greyhound fits right in.
Batch Preparation Tips
Making Greyhounds for a crowd? Skip the individual mixing and go big with a pitcher. Here’s how to batch it out:
Pitcher Recipe for 6 Drinks:
- 12 oz vodka or gin (1.5 oz per serving)
- 24 oz grapefruit juice (4 oz per serving)
- Ice to serve
- Garnishes: grapefruit wedges, rosemary sprigs, mint
Instructions:
- Combine the vodka and grapefruit juice in a large pitcher.
- Stir well and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- When ready to serve, pour over ice in individual glasses.
- Garnish each drink for a polished presentation.
Presentation Ideas
Want your Greyhounds to look as good as they taste? Presentation matters!
- Use matching highball glasses or mason jars for a rustic brunch look.
- Add colorful striped straws or clear cocktail stirrers.
- Float a thin grapefruit wheel in the drink or rim the glass with colored salt for a stylish touch.
- Serve drinks on a wooden tray with fresh herbs or citrus slices for garnish options.
Pro Party Hack: Greyhound Bar Station
Let guests customize their drinks with a self-serve Greyhound bar! Provide:
- Vodka and gin options
- Fresh grapefruit juice
- Sparkling water or tonic
- Salts and sugars for rimming
- Fresh herbs, citrus slices, and even hot sauce for spicy variations
It’s a fun way to let people play bartender without stressing you out.
Tips for Serving the Perfect Greyhound
Even with such a simple recipe, a few details can elevate your Greyhound from “pretty good” to “wow, what is this drink!?”
1. Use Fresh Ice
Always use fresh, clear ice. Old or freezer-burned ice can carry off-flavors that will ruin the drink. Big cubes are better—they melt slower and keep the drink colder longer.
2. Cold Everything
Make sure your juice and vodka/gin are well chilled before mixing. Cold ingredients = less melting = stronger, crisper flavor.
3. Stir, Don’t Shake (Usually)
You might be tempted to shake the Greyhound like other citrus drinks, but stirring helps retain its clarity and smoothness. Only shake if you’re adding sweeteners or herbs and want a more emulsified texture.
4. Choose the Right Glass
Highball glasses are standard, but don’t be afraid to use something a little different if you’re feeling fancy. Tall crystal glasses, stemless wine glasses, or even rocks glasses with giant cubes can change the feel of the drink.
5. Garnish Smart
Don’t overdo it. A grapefruit wedge or a sprig of fresh rosemary can elevate the aroma and presentation. But if you’re using too many garnishes, it becomes cluttered—and harder to drink.
6. Always Taste Test
Before serving, give your cocktail a quick taste. Too sour? Add a dash of simple syrup. Too strong? Top with a splash of soda. The Greyhound is flexible—use that to your advantage.
Greyhound vs. Salty Dog – What’s the Real Difference?
You’ve heard of both the Greyhound and the Salty Dog, but are they the same drink with different names? Not quite.
What’s the Main Difference?
- Greyhound: Vodka or gin + grapefruit juice, served over ice.
- Salty Dog: Same ingredients, but with a salted rim.
That’s literally the only difference—but it makes a big impact. The salt adds a savory kick that mellows out the bitterness of the grapefruit, giving the drink a whole new personality.
Flavor Profile Comparison
- Greyhound: Crisp, tart, refreshing, slightly bitter.
- Salty Dog: Smooth, savory, mellow, balanced.
When to Choose Which?
- Greyhound: Great for brunch, summer afternoons, or when you want something ultra-refreshing.
- Salty Dog: Perfect when you’re craving something with a bit more complexity or serving cocktails at a dinner party.
Regional & Cultural Preferences
Interestingly, some bars only serve the Salty Dog and don’t offer a traditional Greyhound unless you ask. Others offer both but feature the Salty Dog as their “house version.” It all depends on where you are—and what your palate is craving.
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
Even though the Greyhound is super simple, it’s surprisingly easy to mess it up if you’re not paying attention. Let’s fix that.
1. It Tastes Too Bitter
Grapefruit can be sharp. If your drink tastes like straight-up citrus pith:
- Try pink or red grapefruit juice instead of white.
- Add a splash of simple syrup to balance the flavor.
- Use less juice and add a splash of sparkling water to mellow it out.
2. It’s Too Watery
This usually means your ice melted too fast or your ingredients weren’t cold. Next time:
- Use large, fresh ice cubes.
- Pre-chill your glass and ingredients.
- Stir, don’t shake—shaking can introduce too much water.
3. The Drink is Too Strong or Too Weak
Balance is key. Stick to the 2:1 grapefruit-to-spirit ratio. If it’s still not quite right:
- Adjust to taste—but go slow. Small changes make a big difference.
- Don’t overfill the glass with juice just to make it look full.
4. The Garnish Falls Apart
Nobody likes a soggy slice of grapefruit sinking to the bottom. Instead:
- Cut thin wedges or use a wheel for a floating garnish.
- Place the garnish gently on the rim, not submerged in the drink.
5. It Just Doesn’t Taste Right
It might be your ingredients. Cheap vodka, old juice, or bad ice can ruin the whole drink. Always start with the best you can afford—it really does matter when you’re only using two or three components.
FAQs about Greyhound Recipe
1. Can I use bottled grapefruit juice for a Greyhound?
Yes, but choose 100% pure juice without added sugars or preservatives. Fresh juice is always better, but premium bottled options like Simply Grapefruit or Lakewood Organic work well too.
2. What is the ideal vodka-to-juice ratio?
The classic ratio is 2 oz of vodka to 4 oz of grapefruit juice—a 1:2 ratio. You can adjust to taste depending on how strong or citrusy you want it.
3. How strong is a Greyhound cocktail?
With 2 oz of vodka and 4 oz of juice, it’s a moderately strong drink—around 10–12% ABV depending on the vodka. It’s lighter than most spirit-forward cocktails.
4. What’s the difference between pink and white grapefruit in cocktails?
Pink grapefruit is sweeter and less bitter, while white grapefruit has a sharper, more bitter flavor. Most people prefer pink for cocktails because of its balanced taste and beautiful color.
5. Is the Greyhound a good cocktail for beginners?
Absolutely! It’s one of the easiest cocktails to make and hard to mess up. Plus, it teaches you how to balance strong, sour, and sweet flavors with minimal ingredients.
Conclusion
There’s beauty in simplicity, and the Greyhound proves that every time. With just two core ingredients and a whole world of possible variations, this cocktail is one of the easiest, most versatile drinks you can make at home. Whether you’re crafting a classic vodka Greyhound, adding flair with a salted rim, or going booze-free with a mocktail, you’ll end up with something crisp, refreshing, and downright delicious.
Perfect for brunch, beach days, parties, or just winding down after a long day—the Greyhound is your go-to citrus companion. And now that you know how to mix it, garnish it, batch it, and even troubleshoot it, you’re officially ready to impress your friends and sip in style.
