Grapefruit Paloma (with Tajín): Tart, Tangy, and a Tiny Bit Spicy
Welcome to your "I'm sipping something fabulous with a salty rim and main character energy" moment.
This Grapefruit Paloma is all citrus, sparkle, and a little kick around the edges. She’s bright, she’s juicy, and she’s got that chili-lime Tajín situation on the rim that says “yes, I know what I’m doing.”
Fresh grapefruit juice keeps it elevated, but if you’re in a "the juice is store-bought but the vibe is homemade" mood, no shame—grab a bottle and keep it moving. And if you're feeling bold (or broody), swap in a little mezcal for that sexy, smoky twist.
Also: I’m a loyal 818 girl. It’s smooth, clean, and plays very nicely with citrus.
🍸 What You’ll Need (1 Serving)
2 oz tequila
My go-to: 818. It’s smooth like your best one-liner.2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
(Or store-bought, we’re not judging—just go for unsweetened.)1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz maple syrup (or whatever sweetener option you like)
Sparkling water (Topo, Spindrift, or your fave)
Tajín + lime wedge (for the rim)
Ice
Optional: 1 oz mezcal (Swap for 1 oz of tequila if you're going smoky.)
✨ Let’s Make It
1. Rim the glass:
Run a lime wedge around the rim and dip it into Tajín. Admire how cute it looks. You're already winning.
2. Shake it up:
In a shaker with ice, add tequila (and mezcal, if using), grapefruit juice, lime juice, and maple syrup. Shake like you mean it.
3. Pour + fizz:
Fill your Tajín-rimmed glass with fresh ice, strain in the mix, and top with sparkling water.
4. Garnish Cute:
A grapefruit wedge or lime wheel is great. Bonus points for a little chili salt sprinkle or edible flower.
🥂 Hosting Tip:
Want to serve a crew without babysitting a cocktail shaker?
Batch it:
Mix the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and maple syrup in a pitcher
Chill ahead of time
Let guests rim their own glasses (it’s a fun moment, trust). Add a dish of Tajín and lime wedges to complete the setup
Set out chilled cans of sparkling water for a pour-it-yourself Paloma bar
You just became that host—the one who makes it look easy (because it is).