At a Glance:

• From neat to up, learn the language of ordering classic cocktails with finesse.
• Explore advanced orders like Perfect and Dirty to add flair to your cocktail repertoire.
• Impress with expert moves like double shots and top-shelf selections, showcasing your cocktail prowess.

It’s the end of the day, and you’re out with some buddies at your favourite cocktail bar. You’re feeling confident, happy, and ready to unwind. But then it happens: the barman asks for your order, and your mind goes blank.

Suddenly, your hard-earned confidence is gone, and all you can think about is chocolate milk (why?!). You stammer out a simple “Gin and tonic,” and as the barman brings your uninspired pick, your pals roll their eyes and move away.

But do not be afraid! It does not have to be this way. With a little expertise, you can go from a cocktail novice to the toast of the bar. Here’s your cheat sheet for ordering drinks like a pro—with a fun twist.

The Basics: Nailing the Classics

Neat

A drink served plain is alcohol in its purest form, with no mixers or ice, just the spirit. Ordering a drink neat is equivalent to stating, “I appreciate the finer things in life.” It’s the ideal approach to appreciating the nuances of premium spirits. Consider it the equivalent of eating a beautiful piece of dark chocolate. Plain is a classic choice for the discerning drinker, with its origins in Middle English.

On The Rocks

If tidy is too bold for you, try “on the rocks.” This just indicates that your drink will be served over ice. It’s an excellent technique for keeping your beverage chilled and somewhat diluted, making it more pleasant. Whether it’s whisky, tequila, or a margarita, ordering anything on the rocks provides an air of elegance.

Up

When you want your drink cool but not iced, you order it “up.” This means that the cocktail is first chilled with ice before being strained into a stemmed glass. It’s the recommended method for serving traditional cocktails like martinis and Manhattans. It’s the cocktail equivalent of wearing a tuxedo: exquisite and ageless.

Back

A back, or chaser, is a non-alcoholic beverage served alongside a shot of strong liquor. It’s there to soothe the burn and enhance the flavour. Water, soda, and even pickle brine are popular backs for the daring. It’s a useful skill to have in your back pocket (pun intended) for those difficult occasions.

Setting the Bar: Stepping up Your Game

Well

Well drinks are made with the bar’s lowest spirits options. They are the house brands, typically hidden away. While there’s nothing wrong with ordering a good drink, knowing your brands and ordering by name—such as a Tanqueray and tonic—demonstrates that you know what you’re doing.

Dry

Dry refers to the amount of vermouth in a cocktail, particularly martinis. A dry martini contains less vermouth, allowing the gin or vodka to show through. This is the ideal method for customising your drink to your specific preferences.

Perfect

A great cocktail contains equal amounts of dry and sweet vermouth. Ordering a Manhattan excellent rather than sweet provides a wonderful twist. It’s a professional action that demonstrates you value the delicate balance of flavours.

Dirty

Want to add a twist to your martini? Order it nasty. This entails adding olive brine, which provides your beverage with a savoury, somewhat salty kick. It’s an acquired taste, but it elevates the elegance of your order.

Master the Expert Moves:

Double

When one shot isn’t enough, try a double. This does not imply a larger drink, only double the strength. It’s like saying, “I mean business.” Use this cautiously, especially if you are just starting.

Tall

On the other hand, a tall drink has the same quantity of alcohol as well as an extra mixer and is delivered in a larger glass. It’s a fantastic way to keep the celebration going without overdoing it. Consider it a long-term pacing strategy.

Flip

A flip is a cocktail made with a whole egg, resulting in a creamy, frothy texture. It’s a historically significant drink from the 17th century, making it an unusual and one-of-a-kind choice. Impress your pals with this traditional flip recipe!

Top Shelf

Finally, if you’re feeling fancy, choose for the top shelf. This is the greatest spirits the bar has to offer, and while it is slightly more expensive, the quality is worth it. Ordering top shelf demonstrates that you value finer goods and aren’t scared to indulge.

With this knowledge, the next time you find yourself at the bar, you may take a confident step forward. Impress the barman, enchant your pals, and drink with confidence. Order your favourite cocktail like a pro. Cheers!!!