The Most Popular Bartender Drinks Served at Various Events
As a bartender serving a diverse clientele at event venues, from weddings and showers to black tie galas and business functions, I have a firsthand view of the most commonly ordered drinks by both women and men. From classic cocktails like Long Island Ices and Manhattans to modern favorites like Malibu Bay Breezes and Moscow Mules, there's a wide range of preferences among my patrons. This article explores the prevailing drinks that have stood the test of time and those that have recently gained popularity, offering insights into the changing tastes of the public.
Popular Drinks for Women
When it comes to women, the choice of drinks is quite diverse, but there are consistent favorites that I see time and again:
White Wines: Currently, Pinot Grigio and Moscato remain the most popular options across all age groups. Cocktails: The Malibu Bay Breeze has been the hands-down favorite cocktail. For younger women, drinks like Vodka Club (pure vodka or a vodka cranberry with a splash of cranberry) are in high demand. The Cosmopolitan remains a classic choice for many women.Popular Drinks for Men
Men, on the other hand, have their own preferences, but there are some key popularities that I consistently see:
Cocktails: Simple classics like Bourbon and Coke and Whiskey and Ginger are making a comeback. Additionally, Vodka or Gin and Tonics and Old Fashions are gaining traction. Many men opt for a Vodka Martini extra dry, sometimes served straight or with herbs for a dirty martini. Older men often prefer a Manhattan. On the Rocks: Men tend to enjoy their whiskeys and scotches served straight up with ice, such as Jameson, Johnny Walker, Crown Royal, and Crown Royal Apple.Emerging Trends
The bartending world is ever-evolving, with trends changing rapidly. Some fad liquors and signature cocktails have become increasingly popular over the years, often driven by cultural and social factors:
Old favorites: The resurgence of classic drinks like the Long Island Iced Tea and Manhattan is noticeable. People are gravitating back to simpler, classic cocktails rather than more complex and involved drinks. New favorites: As mentioned, fad liquors like Titos, Crown Royal Apple, Moscato, and Moscow Mules are currently very popular. These drinks gained traction partly due to their appearance in social media, particularly Pinterest, where they often feature in wedding and event setups. Custom Signature Drinks: To cater to the demand, bartenders are increasingly creating custom signature drinks for weddings and events. This trend is particularly fueled by the popularity of custom bar signs on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. There's an opportunity for professional bartenders to tap into this market by offering custom cocktail options and branding them on unique bar signs.Conclusion
As a bartender, I have seen firsthand the ebb and flow of drink trends. While classic cocktails are making a strong comeback, there's also a vibrant interest in emerging trends andcustom signature drinks. By staying attuned to these preferences, bartenders can better serve their customers and create memorable experiences at events like weddings, showers, and business functions.