Top 40 Popular Drinks to Order at a Bar in 2025

What’s old is new again has never been truer than when customers choose a drinks to order at a bar.  While the cutting edge of mixology constantly pushes the boundaries with novel ingredients and techniques, there’s a reason certain drinks are as revered today as they were a century ago. A good drink is a good drink, period.

This is not to disparage innovation; a beautifully crafted modern cocktail is a work of art, but you know that feeling when you're at a new bar and you're just not sure what to order? That's where the classics come in. They're the customers' reliable, can't-go-wrong go-tos. 

With 2.3 billion drinkers reported globally by the World Health Organization (WHO), both new and experienced drinkers always find their cocktail, often following in the footsteps of legendary drinkers.

So get your digital menu ready, as this article will showcase a variety of drinks to include while providing key information to help your guests enjoy them responsibly.

40 best drinks to order at a bar for your customers

Across different types of bars globally, these top 40 drinks are among the favorites that customers often crave. Mix, serve these, and watch your menu become a hit.

1. Martini

A Martini is a classic that says sophistication. It’s got that strong taste from the gin or vodka, and the dry vermouth gives it a smooth finish, and the olive or lemon twist makes it feel really refined. It's a go-to for someone who wants something simple but elegant, 

Basic ingredients:

• Gin or vodka
• Dry vermouth
• Olive or lemon twist

2. Margarita

This one’s a crowd-pleaser, especially when the weather's nice. The mix of tequila, lime, and triple sec makes it tangy and super refreshing. Plus, that salted rim is a game-changer. You can also mix it up with different fruits, like mango or strawberry, which makes it a fun option for people who want something a little sweeter.

Basic ingredients:

• Tequila
• Triple sec
• Fresh lime juice
• Salt for rim

3. Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is for the whiskey lovers. It’s a no-nonsense drink that really lets the whiskey shine, with just a hint of sweetness and a little bitters to balance it out. It’s a timeless choice that never goes out of style.

Basic ingredients:

• Bourbon or rye whiskey
• Sugar cube or simple syrup
• Angostura bitters
• Orange peel

4. Manhattan

This one's a cousin to the Old Fashioned. The whiskey and vermouth combination is a classic for a reason, and the cherry just ties it all together. It's the perfect drink to have in the evening.

Basic ingredients:

• Rye or bourbon
• Sweet vermouth
• Bitters
• Cherry

5. Negroni

For someone looking for something with a bit of an edge, a Negroni is the way to go. It's bold, bitter, and has a strong herbal flavor from the gin and Campari. It’s definitely a drink for someone who knows what they want.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Campari
• Sweet vermouth
• Orange peel

6. Daiquiri

If you’re already working on bar menu ideas this one makes a standout addition. This one’s all about being light and easy. It's a simple but incredibly refreshing drink with just rum, lime, and sugar. It's perfect for a hot day, and a great base for people who want to try different fruit flavors.

Basic ingredients:

• White rum
• Lime juice
• Sugar

7. Mojito

A Mojito is pure freshness in a glass. This is one of the best and common drinks to order at a bar. The mint and lime give it this cool, crisp flavor, and the soda water makes it super light and easy to drink. It's one of those drinks that just feels like a breath of fresh air

Basic Ingredients:

• White rum
• Fresh mint
• Lime juice
• Sugar
• Soda water

Alternatives

• Use tequila instead of rum

8. Rum Punch

This is one of the best fruity drinks to order at a bar, tropical crowd favorite, Rum Punch combines light and dark rum with fruit juices for a bold, sweet, and tangy mix. It's perfect for parties or summer vibes.

Basic ingredients:

• Light rum
• Dark rum
• Pineapple juice
• Orange juice
• Grenadine

9. Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan is a stylish and smooth drink that's easy to sip on. The vodka, cranberry, and lime give it a great fruity and tart flavor. It looks great in the glass, and it's a popular choice.

Basic ingredients:

• Vodka
• Triple sec
• Cranberry juice
• Lime juice

10. Sidecar

The Sidecar is an old-school but still easy-to-drink cocktail. It’s zesty and smooth with a citrusy kick. It’s made with brandy and orange liqueur for a warm, sweet flavor. 

Basic ingredients:

• Cognac or brandy
• Triple sec
• Lemon juice

11. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz is perfect when people want something light and easy, especially on a sunny day.  It’s got a bit of a bitter bite from the Aperol, which is balanced by the bubbles from the sparkling wine and soda. It’s in between non-alcoholic drinks and alcoholic drinks, a great, low-alcohol option that's a perfect pre-dinner drink.

Basic ingredients:

• Aperol
• Prosecco
• Soda water

12. Paloma

If your guest wants something that’s not too sweet but still super refreshing, Paloma is the way to go. The grapefruit soda gives it a great, bright, fizzy flavor, and the tequila adds a nice kick. That touch of salt on the rim really brings it all together. It's a fantastic alternative to a margarita

Basic ingredients:

• Tequila
• Grapefruit soda or juice
• Lime juice
• Salt (optional rim)

13. French 75

The French 75 is sparkling, citrusy, and classy. It combines gin, lemon juice, and champagne for a light, bubbly drink. People enjoy it for celebrations or brunch because it feels fancy but easy to drink, a perfect choice for people celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just the weekend.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Champagne
• Lemon juice
• Simple syrup

14. Mimosa

The Mimosa is light and fruity, perfect for brunch. It mixes sparkling wine with fresh orange juice. People like it because it’s easy to drink and not too strong.

Basic ingredients:

• Champagne
• Orange juice

15. Bellini

The Bellini is your next-level Mimosa. It feels a bit fancier. You’re swapping the OJ for peach purée with Prosecco. It’s a bit sweeter and more elegant. It’s perfect for someone who wants to treat themselves to something that tastes like pure sunshine.

Basic ingredients:

• Prosecco
• Peach purée

16. Tom Collins

This tall, fizzy drink just hits the spot on a warm day. It’s got gin, lemon, and a bit of fizz. It’s bright and refreshing, and it's one of those drinks you can just sip on without it being too much. It’s a classic for a reason. 

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Lemon juice
• Sugar
• Soda water

17. Gin and Tonic

This is the go-to drink for so many people. It's just gin, tonic, and a lime wedge. It’s a simple, reliable drink that always feels classic and refreshing.

Basic  ingredients:

• Gin
• Tonic water
• Lime wedge

18. Moscow Mule

This drink is a huge seller. People love the spicy kick from the ginger beer mixed with vodka and lime. And when you serve it in a copper mug, it just looks and feels cool. It's an excellent choice for someone who wants a little zest and something different.

Basic ingredients:

• Vodka
• Ginger beer
• Lime juice

19. Dark ’n’ Stormy

Think of this as the Moscow Mule's richer cousin. You're using dark rum instead of vodka, which gives it this deep, smooth flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy ginger beer. It’s not too sweet, but it’s still packed with flavor.

Basic ingredients:

• Dark rum
• Ginger beer
• Lime wedge

20. Caipirinha

This one’s a real treat. It’s the national drink of Brazil, made with cachaça, which is a bit like rum, muddled lime, and sugar. It’s sweet, tart, and super fresh. It’s a simple, cool drink with an authentic feel.

Basic ingredients:

• Cachaça
• Lime
• Sugar

21. Piña Colada

You have to have a Piña Colada. It’s an instant vacation in a glass. That mix of rum, creamy coconut, and sweet pineapple is pure joy. It’s not too strong and a total crowd-pleaser that makes people feel like they’re on a beach somewhere.

Basic ingredients:

• White rum
• Coconut cream
• Pineapple juice

Alternative

• Use coconut milk instead of coconut cream

22. Singapore Sling

The Singapore Sling is an eye-catcher. It's super colorful and feels a little mysterious. It’s got gin, cherry liqueur, and citrus, so it’s refreshing but still packs a nice punch. It's a perfect drink to offer if you want something that's both pretty and strong.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Cherry liqueur
• Cointreau
• Pineapple juice
• Lime juice
• Grenadine
• Bitters

23. Bloody Mary

A Bloody Mary is an absolute must-have for any brunch menu. It’s savory and spicy, and it’s almost like a meal on its own. It's made with vodka, tomato juice, and all those great seasonings. People love it because it’s bold and satisfying, and it feels like the perfect way to kick off the day.

Basic ingredients:

• Vodka
• Tomato juice
• Lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce
• Celery salt

24. Espresso Martini 

This one is perfect for the after-dinner crowd; it gives customers a nice little caffeine boost. All you need is to mix vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso. It’s a great way to finish a meal and has become incredibly popular.

Basic ingredients:

• Vodka
• Coffee liqueur
• Fresh espresso

25. Sazerac

A Sazerac is a drink for whiskey lovers. It's intense and aromatic, with rye whiskey and bitters, all with a hint of absinthe. It’s a bold, classic New Orleans cocktail. This is a great one on your menu for people who appreciate a serious, well-made drink.

Basic ingredients:

• Rye whiskey
• Sugar cube
• Peychaud’s bitters
• Absinthe rinse

26. Clover Club

The look of this drink is the true embodiment of a classy, mean girl. It's a beautiful pink color, made with gin, lemon, and raspberry. It's a little tart, a little sweet, and just goes down so smoothly. It’s a great option because it’s visually appealing and so approachable for pretty much anyone.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Lemon juice
• Raspberry syrup
• Egg white

27. Ramos Gin Fizz

This one takes a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. It’s a gin drink that’s creamy, fizzy, and just bursting with citrus. The egg white gives it this amazing, smooth texture and a beautiful foam on top. 

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Lemon juice
• Lime juice
• Cream
• Egg white
• Soda water
• Orange blossom water

28. Mint Julep

If you want to offer a drink that screams “summer,” this is it. It’s got bourbon, fresh mint, and sugar, all served over a glass packed with crushed ice. It’s incredibly icy and minty, which makes it so refreshing. People love it because it’s a classic way to cool down.

Basic ingredients:

• Bourbon
• Fresh mint
• Sugar
• Crushed ice

29. Mai Tai

The name itself, “Mai Tai,” comes from the Tahitian phrase “Maita'i roa ‘ae,” which means “out of this world” or “the best.” Absolutely. You've got to have a Mai Tai on the menu. While many modern versions include pineapple or orange juice and a dark rum float, the original is a more balanced, rum-forward cocktail that is less about fruit juice and more about the elegant interplay of rum, citrus, and almond. 

Basic ingredients:

• White rum
• Dark rum
• Lime juice
• Orange curacao
• Orgeat syrup

30. Vesper Martini

For your sophisticated drinkers, this is the one. It's famous because it's James Bond's drink—a mix of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc. It's sharp and strong, with a really clean finish. It's the perfect choice for someone who appreciates a potent, no-nonsense cocktail.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Vodka
• Lillet Blanc

31. Corpse Reviver No. 2

This is a fun one. The name alone gets people curious.  It’s a lively, citrusy drink with some herbal flavor from the absinthe. It’s a great drink to suggest for someone who wants to start their night with something zesty and refreshing.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Cointreau
• Lillet Blanc
• Lemon juice
• Absinthe (rinse)

32. Last Word

This is a real bartender’s favorite. It’s got gin, green, Chartreuse, and lime, and the flavors are bold and interesting yet balanced perfectly. It's a great conversation starter and shows that you know your cocktails.

Basic ingredients:

• Gin
• Green Chartreuse
• Maraschino liqueur
• Lime juice

33. Brandy Alexander

This is your go-to dessert cocktail. It's like a milkshake for grown-ups. Creamy, sweet, and rich with brandy, crème de cacao, and cream. It’s the perfect way to finish a meal, and it feels like a total indulgence.

Basic ingredients:

• Brandy
• Creme de cacao
• Cream

34. Zombie

The Zombie cocktail gets its name from its incredibly high alcohol content, which is famously known for making the drinker feel “like the walking dead.”The Zombie is a classic tiki cocktail. It got layers of different rums, citrus, and spices. It's super strong, so it’s for someone who wants a bold, flavorful drink that packs a serious punch.

Basic ingredients:

• Light rum
• Dark rum
• Overproof rum
• Lime juice
• Pineapple juice
• Grenadine

35. Fog Cutter

This one is a tiki heavy-hitter. It’s got a wild mix of rum, gin, and brandy, and it's definitely not for the faint of heart. It's intense and layered, and it's a perfect drink for people who know their cocktails and want to try something powerful.

Basic ingredients:

• Dark rum
• Light rum
• Passion fruit juice
• Lime juice
• Simple syrup

36. Blue Lagoon

This one’s all about fun and color. It's bright blue, sweet, and citrusy with vodka, blue curacao, and lemonade. It’s the kind of drink that feels like a party just by looking at it.

Basic ingredients:

• Vodka
• Blue curacao
• Lemonade

37. Irish Coffee

Irish Coffee is the go-to for those who want a little warmth and a kick. It’s just hot coffee mixed with Irish whiskey and topped with fresh cream. It’s cozy, smooth, and perfect for dessert or on a chilly night.

Basic ingredients:

• Hot coffee
• Irish whiskey
• Brown sugar (optional)
• Fresh cream

38. Whiskey Sour

A Whiskey Sour is one of those essential, fundamental cocktails. It's just whiskey, lemon juice, and a little sugar. It’s a great entry point for people new to whiskey, but it's also a reliable, delicious option for anyone who wants a classic drink that's both sweet and tart.

Basic ingredients:

• Bourbon or rye whiskey
• Lemon juice
• Simple syrup (or sugar)
• Egg white (optional, for texture)

39. Screwdriver

A Screwdriver is a total no-brainer. It's just vodka and orange juice. Simple, classic, and always in demand. It's the perfect easy-drinking option for anyone who wants something familiar and refreshing.

Basic ingredients:

• Vodka
• Orange juice

40.  Tequila Sunrise

This colorful classic features tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, which gives it that beautiful layered “sunrise” look. It’s simple, refreshing, and always eye-catching.

Basic ingredients:

• Tequila
• Orange juice
• Grenadine

Legal regulations for serving alcohol in the U.S.

There are a lot of the best bars in America nowadays and with them comes a wide variety of drinks to order at a bar. However, alcohol service is highly regulated, where the rules vary by federal, state, and local jurisdictions. 

Here’s an overview of the key regulations:

1. Minimum Legal Drinking Age (MLDA)

The National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 established the legal age to purchase and publicly possess alcohol in the United States at 21 years. This federal law aimed to reduce alcohol-related traffic accidents among young drivers aged 18 to 20 years old.

2. Licensing requirements

Businesses must obtain the proper liquor license to sell wine, spirits and well drinks  or serve alcohol. Common types include: 

• On-premise license: For establishments where alcohol is consumed on-site (bars, restaurants, clubs).
• Off-premises license: For stores that sell alcohol to be consumed elsewhere (liquor stores, grocery stores, convenience stores).
• Combination license: Some states allow a license that covers both on-premise and off-premise sales.

3. Server responsibilities (Dram Shop Laws)

According to the Legal Information Institute, dram shop laws make alcohol-serving establishments legally responsible if they serve visibly intoxicated or underage customers who subsequently cause harm.

In most jurisdictions, liability is limited to injuries or damages suffered by third parties, though some states allow the intoxicated guest themselves to pursue claims for their own injuries.

4. Bring Your Own Bottle (BYOB) policies 

When a bar allows guests to bring their own alcohol onto the premises instead of ordering from the drink menu in your bar, the business can become legally responsible for anything that happens as a result, such as overconsumption, accidents, or underage drinking. 

Always make BYOB policies clear in writing, including any legal disclaimers, rules for consumption (like no underage drinking), and corkage fee if possible. That way, both staff and guests know the boundaries.

5. Hours of sale

According to Toast POS, last call times differ significantly across the United States, though most states generally set it at 2:00 AM.

Tips for creating a safe and peaceful bar

Many owners have successfully managed bars and alcohol-serving establishments; however, the industry cannot ignore that unruly or aggressive customers can sometimes disrupt the atmosphere and ruin the experience for others.

1. Use a smart order management system 

Order management is proactive in that it’s not just built for operations, but also designed to genuinely help people. 

• Food warning options: you can add warnings for items that contain alcohol, and even show the alcohol percentage in each drink. That way, people know exactly what they’re ordering and can make informed choices.

• Waiter call-button: Imagine a situation at a table with two customers, Friend 1 has had too much to drink and wants a glass of hot water to cool off. With a smart digital menu’s one-tap restaurant waiter call button, Friend 2 doesn’t have to leave the table, shout, or go to the counter. Help arrives quickly and discreetly, keeping everyone safe and comfortable.

2. Hire professional security

Bouncers or security personnel help manage entry, prevent underage drinking, and handle aggressive behavior.

3. Establish clear house rules

Your security team and house rules must work in coordination. Ensure your rules are clearly established to avoid misunderstandings between customers and security staff. For example, if minors are not allowed (as required by law), this policy must be strictly enforced fairly and without bias. 

4. Use security cameras 

Place this in strategic locations to monitor activity without invading privacy. Staff should remain vigilant and intervene early if a situation escalates. 

5.  Offer safe transportation options

You can partner with ride-sharing services and taxi companies. Make it easy for your guests to get home safely after a night out. Helping customers leave responsibly shows that you care about their well-being. 

Make your bar the go-to spot for top drinks in 2025

Ultimately, the perfect drink isn't just about what's in the glass; it's about the feeling it gives you. The drinks to order at a bar must remind people of fun core memories. 

When exceptional cocktails are paired with a welcoming and secure environment, your venue becomes more than a place to grab a drink. It becomes the go-to destination where customers feel comfortable, confident, and cared for.

By embracing innovative menu management and thoughtful service, you create an experience that keeps guests coming back, making your establishment the place to be in 2025.