Move over, Honey Deuce! The US Open has uncorked a new, even pricier cocktail that’s already turning heads and wallets. At a cool $39, the ‘Watermelon Slice’ is challenging the long-reigning champion for the title of Flushing’s most coveted sip. Will this new extravagant drink truly dethrone Taylor Swift’s favorite?
The culinary landscape of the US Open is currently abuzz with a new, lavish libation, “The Watermelon Slice,” which is rapidly challenging the long-standing reign of the iconic “Honey Deuce” cocktail. This refreshing, albeit expensive, newcomer has already captured significant attention, setting new trends in the upscale experience offered at one of tennis’s premier tournaments.
For over fifteen years, since its introduction in 2006, the Honey Deuce has been an undisputed staple at the US Open, becoming synonymous with the Flushing Meadows experience. Crafted with vodka, lemonade, raspberry liqueur, and distinctive honeydew melon balls, it has long been considered an essential part of a trip to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, defining a cherished tradition for countless attendees.
The Honey Deuce’s allure was further amplified by its celebrity endorsement, famously receiving the seal of approval from none other than pop superstar Taylor Swift. Her public enjoyment of the cocktail, particularly during high-profile matches, cemented its status as a must-have, despite its then-$23 price tag, which was already considered premium for a tournament beverage.
Now, the Watermelon Slice emerges as a formidable competitor, not just in popularity but also in price, retailing at a staggering $39 per drink. This significant increase aligns with the escalating costs associated with attending the American tennis major, reflecting a broader trend of luxury experiences at major sporting events.
Celebrities have quickly embraced the Watermelon Slice, with personalities like Brittany Snow, Meg Donnelly, and Julia Mervis already spotted enjoying the vibrant cocktail at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This immediate celebrity adoption underscores its burgeoning status as the new “it” drink of the tournament, signaling a shift in the preferred high-end beverage option.
The introduction of the Watermelon Slice, alongside other premium offerings like those from Dobel Tequila, presents a fresh challenge to the Honey Deuce’s previously unshakeable sales figures. Despite a slight price increase from the previous year, the tournament still reported impressive sales of $12.8 million from Honey Deuces alone, indicating a robust demand for signature tournament drinks. However, with new, even more exclusive options available, these numbers may face significant pressure.
Beyond beverages, the US Open continues to innovate its food and drink offerings, integrating high-end culinary experiences from popular New York City restaurants, such as COQODAQ at the club level. This ongoing evolution in gastronomy ensures that the tournament remains not only a world-class tennis event but also a premier destination for elevated dining and unique, memorable refreshments, even for those who appreciate keeping the commemorative souvenir cups.
