Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic8.5% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 4 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetenerGarnish
- 2.0 ozLemon-Flavored VodkaBase
- 4.0 ozFresh Lemon JuiceCitrus
- 2.0 ozSimple SyrupSweetener
- 6Fresh Mint LeavesGarnish
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
ShakeTop
- Shake first four ingredients with ice and double-strain into chilled cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
- Top with a splash of soda water.TopTopping adds length, bubbles, dilution or sweetness near the end.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.HerbsMint is cool and fresh. Basil is a workable swap in spirit-forward or citrus drinks — it is peppery and sweeter, so use slightly less. Rosemary works in shorter, more spirit-led drinks but it is much more resinous. Always bruise rather than shred to avoid releasing bitter compounds.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a West Side?
- The West Side is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 8.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 340 calories.
- What does a West Side taste like?
- West Side has a flavour profile featuring Lemon, Citrus, Sweet, Mint. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a West Side?
- West Side pairs well with Caviar, Salty Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a West Side?
- The West Side has an ABV of approximately 8.5%. That's approximately 1.42 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 340 calories, 45.8g sugar, 51.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a West Side typically served?
- West Side is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a West Side?
- If you enjoy West Side, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a West Side at home?
- Yes. The West Side uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of West Side with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.