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Last Updated on October 19, 2023
What’s life without good drinks and some fun, right? We all have a YOLO experience when we are at a party or at a bar. Therefore, this guide to easy-to-order drinks at a cocktail bar is a bar cheat sheet you never knew you needed. This cheat sheet will make you sound impressively knowledgeable; no mixology degree is required.
Are you looking for something solid and straightforward?
Go for Long Island Iced Tea – it’s not just iced tea; this power-packed drink is loaded with vodka and tequila. If you have a sweet tooth, try a Dirty Shirley, a grown-up version of your childhood favorite, with vodka and cranberry juice. Next time you’re at a cocktail bar armed with these recipes, you’ll order like a pro.
Whether you prefer lemon, lime, grapefruit juice, or are curious about an Amaretto Sour or a Black Russian, remember that mixed drinks offer endless possibilities. So get ready to go beyond simple syrup and lime and dive into the colorful world of cocktails. Cheers!
10 Easy Drinks to Order at a Bar
1. Gin and Tonic
The classic Gin and Tonic is a simple mixed drink that is a favorite at any cocktail bar. It’s a delightful fusion of gin, zesty lime juice, and sparkling tonic water, served over ice. Simply add a lime wedge for a touch of elegance, and voila! You have a flawlessly harmonized, refreshing beverage that’s just as effortless to prepare as it is to savor!
2. Rum and Coke
A trip to the cocktail bar isn’t complete without a Rum and Coke. This timeless concoction blends the richness of rum with the effervescence of cola, crafting a revitalizing and gratifying libation. Give it a whirl when you’re craving an uncomplicated yet delectable beverage. It may not have the complexity of an Old Fashioned or a Long Island Iced Tea, but its simplicity is its charm.
3. Margarita
Craving a citrusy delight? The Margarita is your answer. This classic cocktail combines the sharpness of tequila with fresh lime juice, producing a refreshing mixed drink adored at any cocktail bar. Served with a lime wedge garnish and salted rim, this drink is a tangy treat that balances sweet and sour flavors exquisitely.
4. Moscow Mule
Coming up next is the Moscow Mule – a timeless concoction that’s always a hit at any cocktail bar. Its delightful blend of vodka, zesty lime juice, and fizzy ginger beer creates a refreshing and well-balanced beverage. Served in a copper mug with a lime wedge for a touch of flair, this uncomplicated mixed drink brings together tangy, sweet, and spicy notes, resulting in a distinct flavor experience that’s simply irresistible.
5. Old Fashioned
Introducing a timeless cocktail that stands the test of time – the Classic Fashioned. This neat libation merges the strength of whiskey with a touch of sugary sweetness and a dash of bitterness from Angostura bitters. It’s a straightforward concoction, typically presented in a low tumbler with one substantial ice cube, adorned with an orange zest.
6. Whiskey Sour
When life gives you lemons, make a Whiskey Sour! This timeless libation is a flavorful fusion of whisky, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a hint of sweetness, combined to craft a straightforward mixed beverage that’s both satisfying to sip and effortless to prepare. Accompanied by a cherry and lemon wedge garnish, the Whiskey Sour exemplifies the notion that sometimes, the simplest components can yield the most unforgettable experiences at a cocktail lounge.
7. Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a sweet cocktail that’s as stylish as it sounds. This timeless beverage is a lively fusion of vodka, cranberry nectar, zesty lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur. The components are mixed in a cocktail shaker and poured into a martini glass. The outcome is a straightforward concoction with a tangy, invigorating taste that radiates elegance.
8. Long Island Iced Tea
Considered the king of potent mixed drinks, the Long Island Iced Tea is an impressive combination of vodka, tequila, rum, and gin, harmoniously balanced with fresh lemon juice and a splash of cola. Despite its name, this classic cocktail doesn’t contain any actual tea. However, its rich, amber hue and sweet, refreshing taste can easily trick your taste buds.
9. Beer
While our list mostly highlighted classic cocktails, we can’t overlook the simple pleasure of a cold beer at a cocktail bar. Served in bottles, cans, or freshly poured from the tap into a frosty mug, beer is a simple mixed drink that’s loved worldwide. It might not contain the array of ingredients like an Old Fashioned or a Long Island Iced Tea, but its crisp, refreshing character holds its own.
10. Wine
We’re wrapping up our list with a classic – wine. Whether it’s a rich, full-bodied red or a crisp, refreshing white, wine is a simple mixed drink that’s a staple at any cocktail bar. It might not have the complexity of an Old Fashioned or the punch of a Long Island Iced Tea, but its simplicity is its charm.
7 Easy Tips for Ordering Drinks at a Bar
Know Your Preferences: Understand what flavors and ingredients you enjoy the most. Do you prefer the sweetness of simple syrup in a sweet cocktail, or the tartness of fresh lime juice?
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things: Mixology is an art with countless unique drink combinations to explore. Discover new favorites like Mai Tai or Amaretto Sour.
Ask for Recommendations: If you’re unsure about what to order, don’t hesitate to ask the bartender for suggestions. They’re experts and can guide you towards a drink you’ll enjoy.
Know Your Classics: An Old Fashioned, a Margarita, or a Long Island Iced Tea – knowing a few classic cocktails can make you feel more confident when ordering at a cocktail bar.
Understand Your Limits: While it might be tempting to order that fourth Whiskey Sour or Long Island Iced Tea, it’s essential to understand your tolerance and drink responsibly.
Customize Your Drink: Love cranberry juice but not a fan of vodka? Ask the bartender to use tequila instead. They’re usually more than happy to adjust the ingredients in a mixed drink to match your taste.
Be Patient: Good things take time, and a quality cocktail is worth the wait. Whether it’s a Black Russian, Margarita, or Gin and Tonic, give the bartender the time they need to craft a top-notch drink.
Conclusion
Choosing a cocktail can feel overwhelming with so many options. But with this guide on easy-to-order drinks, you’ll navigate any cocktail bar like a pro. Whether you crave a Margarita, Cosmopolitan, Long Island Iced Tea, or a simple beer or glass of wine, a world of flavors awaits. With these recipes and tips, confidently explore mixology.
FAQs
What are some basic drinks that are easy to order at a bar?
Easy-to-order drinks are: Gin and Tonic, Rum and Coke, Whiskey Sour, Beer, Wine.
How can I order a drink without sounding like a novice?
Knowing your preferences and confidently ordering your drink can help you avoid sounding inexperienced.
What should I do if I don’t know what I want to drink?
If unsure, ask the bartender for recommendations based on your flavor preferences.
Is it okay to ask the bartender for recommendations?
Absolutely, bartenders are usually happy to provide recommendations based on your taste.
Can I customize my drink order?
Yes, you can usually customize your drink order according to your taste preferences.
How much should I tip the bartender for a simple drink order?
A standard tip for a simple drink order is around $1-$2 per drink.
