Each week, we order the same cocktail at two different bars for a friendly head-to-head battle. Go to the bars, taste them both and tell us what you like about each by tagging @pghcitypaper on Twitter or Instagram and using #CPBoozeBattles. If you want to be a part of Booze Battles, send an email to food-and-beverage writer Celine Roberts, at [email protected].
The Drink: Greyhound
Hemingway’s Café
3911 Forbes Ave., Oakland
Drink: 3911 Greyhound
Ingredients: Captain Morgan Grapefruit Rum, Smirnoff Sourced Grapefruit Vodka, sours, Sierra Mist, candy-necklace garnish
Our take: If you want a good representation of flavored vodka, this would be it. The drink is like a fun, candy-flavored soda that, at 20 ounces, you could share with your friends. It’s got college charm, while still tasting good and being dangerously drinkable. Since it’s on the sweeter side, maybe save the candy necklace for later and enjoy a bubbly, sour swig.
Vs.
Le Mardi Gras
731 Copeland St., Shadyside
Drink: Greyhound
Ingredients: Tito’s Handmade vodka, fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice
Our take: Le Mardi Gras is known for making a strong drink and its classic, barebones Greyhound is no exception. Because the bar uses fresh grapefruit juice (made in front of you, using one of the giant metal juicers bolted to the bar), the drink is unsweetened and full of pure, citrus tang. Using quality vodka like Tito’s makes the drink so well balanced that the acidity and the heat of the alcohol are barely noticeable.
