If you’re planning to set up a bar or simply looking to stock your home bar for a party, it’s handy to know what types of drinks tend to be crowd-pleasers. Providing a satisfying range of beverages can be the difference between an average night and a memorable one. Below you’ll find some of the most popular categories of drinks that you can offer at a bar, each appealing to different tastes and preferences.
Brewed Drinks
Beer is a staple in most bars around the world. With countless varieties, including ales, lagers, stouts, and IPAs, beer caters to a broad audience. Craft beers, in particular, have surged in popularity, offering unique flavors and artisanal qualities. Another brewed favorite is cider, which provides a fruity alternative to beer and comes in an array of styles from dry to sweet.
Spirits
The range of spirits available is vast, and they form the backbone of many classic and modern cocktails. Whiskey, vodka, rum, tequila, and gin are arguably the most frequently used in a bar setting. Whiskey enthusiasts may prefer single malts or blends, while vodka is valued for its versatility. Rum brings tropical flavors to the mix, reminiscent of beach holidays, while tequila is the base of lively drinks like margaritas. Gin, with its herbal notes, is essential for quintessential cocktails like the gin and tonic.
Cocktails
Cocktails are where a bartender’s skills truly shine. They combine spirits with mixers, fruit juices, and other flavorings to create both time-honored and innovative drinks. Popular cocktails include classics like the Old Fashioned, Martini, Mojito, and Cosmopolitan. Seasonal cocktails, which highlight ingredients that are fresh and available during different times of the year, can also be a draw for customers looking for something new and refreshing.
Wine
Wine is a sophisticated option that appeals to those looking for something beyond mixed drinks. A varied wine list often includes reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines, accommodating preferences and pairing well with different food options. For an upscale bar experience, including a selection of vintages from reputable vineyards can add a touch of elegance.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
It’s important not to forget about those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. Options range from soft drinks and mocktails to artisanal sodas and non-alcoholic versions of beers and spirits. These can provide a similar experience to their alcoholic counterparts without the alcohol, catering to designated drivers, non-drinkers, or anyone in the mood for something lighter.
Digestifs and Apéritifs
An often-overlooked category, these are drinks typically served before or after meals to stimulate or aid digestion. Apéritifs like vermouth, Campari, and Aperol are growing in popularity, often served neat or as part of a cocktail. Digestifs, such as amaro, port, or cognac, provide a warming and soothing end to a meal and can be a classy addition to a drink menu.
Exotic and Specialty Drinks
For an adventurous crowd, offering exotic and specialty drinks can set your bar apart. This could involve infusions, rare ingredients, or thematic creations that transport your customers to far-off locales. These could range from tiki bar classics like the Mai Tai or Pina Colada to more niche concoctions that use ingredients from around the world.
Providing a full range of drinks to suit every taste can be a considerable challenge, but focusing on these popular drink types can help ensure that every guest finds something that they can enjoy. From beers and wines to cocktails and mocktails, rounding out your bar offerings will help create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.