Virgin Paloma

• grapefruit juice
  90 ml (3 oz)

  fresh squeezed is best for vibrant flavor and gentle bitterness
• lime juice
  25 ml (0.75 oz)

  freshly squeezed
• agave syrup
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of the grapefruit
• club soda
  60 ml (2 oz)

  chilled, to top with a clean sparkling finish
• non-alcoholic tequila alternative
  45 ml (1.5 oz)

  optional, for a more classic Paloma-style depth
• salt
  30 ml (1 oz)

  used only for rimming; coarse kosher or flaky salt preferred
• ice
  30 ml (1 oz)

  enough to fill the glass; amount is approximate and not consumed

• Highball glass or Collins glass
• Citrus juicer or hand press
• Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Small plate for salt rim
• Knife and cutting board

1. 1

   If you’d like a salted rim, run a lime wedge around half or all of the rim of your highball glass. Dip it gently into a small plate of salt. A half-rim is a bartender’s favorite because it lets the drinker choose between salty and unsalted sips.

2. 2

   Fill the glass with fresh ice all the way to the top. A well-filled glass keeps the drink colder longer and preserves the bubbles.

3. 3

   In the glass, add the grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup, and the non-alcoholic tequila alternative if using.

4. 4

   Give the mixture a quick stir with a bar spoon to combine the citrus and sweetener evenly.

5. 5

   Top with chilled club soda and stir once or twice very gently so you keep the carbonation lively.

6. 6

   Taste and adjust if needed. If your grapefruit is especially tart, add a small splash more agave. If you want extra brightness, squeeze in a touch more lime.

7. 7

   Garnish, serve immediately, and enjoy while it’s icy cold and sparkling.

• It delivers the same bright, tart, bubbly refreshment as the classic Paloma without any alcohol.
• It’s incredibly easy to make, even if you don’t have advanced bartending skills or equipment.
• The balance of grapefruit, lime, sweetness, and salt makes it taste layered and grown-up rather than sugary.
• It pairs beautifully with spicy foods, grilled dishes, and brunch spreads.
• It’s easy to customize—sweeter, tarter, saltier, or spicier depending on your mood.

The Paloma is widely considered one of Mexico’s most beloved tequila cocktails, often even more popular locally than the Margarita. Traditionally built with tequila, grapefruit, lime, and fizz, it became a favorite because it’s easy to make, deeply refreshing, and perfectly suited to warm weather. The Virgin Paloma is a modern non-alcoholic adaptation that keeps the soul of the original intact: the lively grapefruit character, the snap of citrus, and the signature salted rim. As low- and no-alcohol drinking has grown in popularity, bartenders and home mixologists alike have embraced alcohol-free versions of classic drinks, and the Virgin Paloma stands out as one of the most natural and delicious translations.