I Tried Every Version Of The Honey Deuce At The U.S. Open—They’re All Worth The Hype

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The most thrilling action at the U.S. Open may be on the tennis court, but one of the biggest draws at the event is not a player, but rather a cocktail.

And not just any cocktail, but thee cocktail: The Honey Deuce. She’s that girl.

You’ve likely seen the photos of stars and everyday match watchers holding a clear glass with a pink hue, topped with three honeydew melon balls on a skewer. It’s a VIP at the event and has managed to become one of the most popular seasonal cocktails there is.

Seriously though. Total Wine & More, the largest independent retailer of wine and spirits in the U.S., found through its data that purchases containing ingredients used in the coveted cocktail, including Grey Goose Vodka, raspberry liqueur, and fresh lemonade, surged a whopping 243 percent in the final weeks of the 2025 U.S. Open. And the drink has made an impact far outside of the grounds of Arthur Ashe Stadium, appearing on wedding menus for tennis lovers and even making it on Emirates flights.

But is it truly worth the hype?

I was lucky enough to attend the U.S. Open over Labor Day weekend and I had the chance to try the drink. And I mean really try. In previous visits, I’d had one, so my true exposure was a bit limited. But as a Grey Goose guest, I had the chance to try it a few times, including in a completely different form: frozen.

So is it worth the hype? I think when you consider the environment, it’s the perfect flavor and vibe for the experience. It’s sweet without being excessive. You can taste the Grey Goose without feeling like it’s overpowering. The raspberry liqueur is just the right amount to help the flavors blend well, and the melon balls are the finishing touch. Honestly, they’re a great “chaser,” per se, after you finish the drink. And they’re refreshing.

I’ve seen people consume all sorts of drinks at the U.S. Open, from a Bloody Mary to an Aperol Spritz and a beer, but The Honey Deuce works the best. It’s a light, invigorating drink that is great on a summer afternoon or night in the stands in New York City. The temperatures during those afternoon matches can really soar, so it’s something that wets the palate and keeps you feeling cool. I would also recommend sipping slowly (especially if you haven’t eaten) to allow some of the ice to melt in the drink. The end result is a quencher that won’t leave you feeling like you’ve done too much.

But ma’am! You haven’t lived until you’ve tried the frozen Honey Deuce. Into the second match of the day, after I’d made the hike and stood amongst a sea of people for a coffee pick-me-up, I returned to my seat to be met by a server with a tray of frozen Honey Deuces in cute shot glasses. They were the miniature version of the same cups that the full-sized Honey Deuces come in. After having two regular cocktails, I wasn’t eager to have the shot. But once I finally brought it to my lips, I was sold. The flavor in the frozen version is a bit more concentrated and really does come off as more of a slushy version of the cocktail. Because the temperatures didn’t let up over the Labor Day weekend, the frozen Honey Deuce was a divine remedy. It was the right mix of sweet and a bit of bite. The perfect treat to toast to Coco Gauff, who I was honored to watch as she played her way to victory in just two sets.

After two and a half drinks, I can truly say I get the hype. While the frozen is my favorite, whatever way you enjoy it, there’s no doubt in its appeal and its great taste. It’s the perfect companion for a day at the U.S. Open (though I’ve heard all the hoopla behind the caviar-covered chicken nuggets too), and it’s a staple at this point. The best way to cap off a memorable summer.

I’m also clear that not everyone can make their way to Flushing Meadows for a Honey Deuce and match. But you can make it at home. Check out the recipe below: