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14 Most Popular Cocktails to Try

Exploring the most popular cocktails offers a fantastic selection for any occasion. Customers often go for these drinks because they’re both classic and incredibly satisfying. Among the favorites, you’ll find options that suit all tastes, from the refreshing zest of a Mojito to the deep, complex flavors of an Old Fashioned. Each cocktail on the list stands out for its unique blend of ingredients, making them timeless choices for anyone looking to enjoy a well-made drink. These selections have proven their worth through consistent popularity. For a guide to creating or ordering these timeless favorites, this roundup is unbeatable.

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Margarita

classic margarita cocktail

The Margarita, a timeless classic in the world of cocktails, stands as a testament to the artistry and popularity of mixology. This iconic libation features smooth Blanco Tequila and vibrant Triple Sec Orange Liqueur, complemented by tangy Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice and natural sweetness from Agave Nectar. The Margarita has inspired mixologists worldwide, resulting in a broad range of fascinating possibilities for cocktail lovers.


Manhattan

manhattan cocktail

Discover the legendary Manhattan, one of the most well-liked libations, and its ageless elegance. This timeless concoction creates a flavorful harmony by blending silky Bourbon with decadent sweet vermouth. A few drops of orange and Angostura bitters give depth and complexity, while ice adds a cool chill. The Manhattan’s success is due to its sophisticated flavor, adaptability to any situation, and capacity to enthrall both whiskey connoisseurs and cocktail connoisseurs.


White Russian

image of a White Russian cocktail. The drink is served in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice cubes. It shows distinct layers, with clear vodka at the bottom, a middle layer of dark coffee liqueur, and a top layer of smooth, creamy white heavy cream. The glass is on a wooden bar counter with a cozy, dimly lit bar ambiance in the background. The cocktail is garnished with a few coffee beans on the cream layer, adding an elegant touch.

Its luxurious but approachable aspect is the reason the White Russian has remained so popular throughout history. Its uncomplicated yet pleasing flavor has ensured its status as a classic among both professional and amateur bartenders. It’s become a crowd-pleaser at all sorts of parties, from backyard barbecues to black-tie affairs.


Dirty Martini

dirty martini cocktail with bottles of ingredients in the background

A Dirty Martini, an irresistible blend of vodka, dry vermouth, and olive juice, is a palate-stimulating delight. Unlike many sweet cocktails, this drink carries a smooth, savory profile with a tinge of bitterness, making it ideal for those seeking a different kind of refreshment. Perfect for evening gatherings or a quiet nightcap, it’s a cocktail that leaves a lasting impression.


Mimosa

mimosa cocktail on a bar

A mimosa is a pleasant citrus beverage that also has a hint of sophistication and festivity to it. Champagne’s clean, bubbly flavor works beautifully with orange juice’s sweet and sour undertones to create a flavor that is both refreshing and luxurious. Today, the mimosa is synonymous with celebratory breakfasts, chic brunch affairs, and sunny garden parties.


Espresso Martini

espresso martini cocktail

Enter a world of caffeinated bliss with the Espresso Martini, a cocktail that delights the senses with its rich and invigorating taste. The combination of the espresso’s intensity and the smoothness of vodka creates a velvety texture that coats the palate with a sense of decadence. It became a well-liked option for people looking for an elegant fusion of strong tastes with a caffeine spike.


Old Fashioned

bourbon old fashioned

Embark on a nostalgic journey with the Old Fashioned, a timeless classic that entices with its sophisticated and well-balanced taste. Savor the enduring fascination of the Old Fashioned, a drink that combines the intricacy of bitters, the richness of bourbon, and the sweetness of sugar to produce a really outstanding libation. This classic cocktail appeals to both seasoned connoisseurs and those venturing into the world of mixology for the first time.


Bloody Mary

bloody mary drink

The Bloody Mary’s taste is a splendid balance of savory, tangy, and spicy elements. This legendary drink is made from a blend of ingredients that have been found to operate in perfect harmony with one another, creating a flavor that is both tart and delicious. Raise your glass and toast the Bloody Mary, a cocktail that has stood the test of time as a go-to for those in need of a strong, revitalizing drink.


Gimlet

Alcoholic Lime and Gin Gimlet with a Garnish

Discover the refreshing allure of the gimlet, a cocktail that entices the palate with its vibrant and tangy flavors. This drink strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, offering a refreshing and invigorating libation that delights the senses. The Gimlet is a wonderful companion that may be enjoyed whether lounging by the pool, entertaining guests at dinner, or just going out and having fun.


Daiquiri

Classic Lime Daiquiri Cocktail with a Garnish

Enjoy the exotic tastes of the Daiquiri, a tropical cocktail made with light rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and ice. The Daiquiri’s taste profile is a perfect marriage of tangy lime and delicate sweetness. It strikes a refreshing and invigorating balance, offering a cocktail that is both revitalizing and satisfying. Embark on a journey of tropical delight with this timeless cocktail that transports you to sun-kissed shores and breezy palm trees.


Mojito

classic mojito cocktail on a table in the sun

Step into the vibrant world of the mojito, one of the most popular cocktails that never fails to delight with its refreshing and invigorating flavors. The Mojito’s taste is a tantalizing combination of tangy lime, invigorating mint, and the crispness of white rum. Because of its cooling effects, this drink is particularly well-suited for hot summer days and parties.


Moscow Mule

A chilled copper mug on a rustic wooden bar top, filled with a fizzy, ginger-lime cocktail. Ice cubes float on the surface, and the drink is garnished with a lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint. The scene is warmly lit, with a cozy, inviting atmosphere, reflecting the refreshing and lively essence of a Moscow Mule cocktail. The background suggests a lively bar environment, with subtle hints of other bar essentials and a soft focus to keep the attention on the Moscow Mule.

The Moscow Mule, one of the most popular cocktails, combines premium vodka, zesty lime juice, and spicy ginger beer. This invigorating blend creates a refreshing and balanced libation that has captivated cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. Served in a signature copper mug, it’s a classic choice for those seeking a flavorful and iconic drink.


Negroni

orange negroni cocktail on countertop

The Negroni is an enduring favorite that has become a timeless classic. Its delicate combination of gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and a hint of orange zest is what gives it its ageless appeal. Enjoy the refined appeal of a Negroni and appreciate the skill of the mixologist who created it.


Cosmopolitan

A cosmopolitan cocktail in a martini glass, garnished with a lime slice, displayed elegantly on a bar. The scene is set in a sophisticated bar environment, with soft, ambient lighting enhancing the rich colors of the cocktail. The drink is the focal point, with its vibrant pink hue standing out against the darker background of the bar. The glass is clear and classic in style, filled with the cocktail, and a neatly cut lime slice rests on the rim, adding a touch of freshness. The bar surface is polished, reflecting the light and adding depth to the image.

The Cosmopolitan drink has a delicious taste that is both sweet and sour at the same time. The vodka serves as a smooth and neutral foundation, highlighting the other flavors. The orange flavor of the Cointreau and the natural sweetness of the cranberry juice make for a delicious combination, while the addition of fresh lime juice makes the drink tart and revitalizing. The Cosmopolitan is a stylish and sophisticated choice that continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts with its timeless appeal.


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A classic Bloody Mary cocktail, served in a casual brunch setting. The cocktail is presented in a tall glass, showcasing its rich, red tomato juice base and seasoned with a mix of spices and garnishes, including a celery stick, a lime wedge, and olives. The glass has a salted rim, adding texture and flavor. The backdrop features a relaxed, sunny outdoor patio with comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely brunch. Soft natural lighting enhances the vibrant colors and textures of the Bloody Mary, making it a focal point of a delightful daytime gathering.

14 Most Popular Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
5 from 2 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Most Popular Cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
Discover the most popular cocktails that are loved and enjoyed by people worldwide.

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14 Most Popular Cocktails to Try
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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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A Japanese Whisky Cocktail, served in an elegant whisky glass. The cocktail has a smooth, amber hue, characteristic of the fine quality of Japanese whisky. It's garnished with a simple twist of lemon or a delicate cherry blossom, adding a touch of refined subtlety. The glass is set on a minimalist wooden bar counter, under the soft, diffused lighting of a sophisticated lounge, highlighting the cocktail's pure and serene appearance. In the background, there's a subtle display of Japanese whisky bottles and sleek, modern bar accessories, creating a scene of refined simplicity and elegance. The image captures the essence of a tranquil and sophisticated cocktail experience, emphasizing the delicate and nuanced flavors of the Japanese Whisky Cocktail.

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A Blue Hawaiian cocktail, served in a tall, curvaceous hurricane glass. The cocktail is a vibrant blue, reminiscent of tropical seas, made from a blend of rum, blue curacao, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. It's garnished with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry, adding a playful and colorful touch. The glass is set on a beach bar counter, with a backdrop of a serene tropical beach, palm trees, and a clear blue sky, enhancing the cocktail's exotic and refreshing appearance. In the background, there's a display of tropical fruits and beach bar essentials, contributing to a scene of ultimate vacation relaxation. The image captures the essence of a fun and tropical cocktail experience, emphasizing the bright and refreshing spirit of the Blue Hawaiian.

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