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The most popular cocktails are popular for a reason. They have been loved for many years by people from all over the world. They are often included in all-inclusive drink packages in hotels and on cruise ships or mentioned as part of the adult beverage trends. They are the common cocktails that any bartender can make.
Whether or not you have a Negroni, Dirty Martini, or Cosmopolitan on your bar or restaurant’s menu, certain customers will be ordering them. That’s the beauty of the common cocktails - you can order them anywhere, as long as the beverage inventory allows it.
Despite the current cocktail trends or your desire to serve unpopular cocktails, it’s great to know where the different cocktail drinks come from. In this article, we want to dive deeper into the origins of the bar drinks people know and love.
The drink menu design can be strongly influenced by the different regions cocktail recipes come from. Such interesting information can also be used in creative ways for your online and offline restaurant marketing campaigns.
Common Cocktails from Around the Globe
Some of the most common cocktails (see: what are cocktails) come from North and South America. They are served at countless restaurants, bars, hotels, cruise ships, country clubs, etc. Many of them even have their own canned versions now, just like canned wine.
These drinks have won the hearts of the public with their taste and aromas. Whether the cocktail garnish is one of the classic options or not, these common cocktails are usually bestsellers. You won’t go wrong if you create a unique spin-off that will fit better the concept of your bar or restaurant.
Key Takeaway: The common cocktails we know and love today have come from all over the world. Some can be had all year round, while others are the preferred cocktail for a specific season. What’s true for all of them is that they are simple, yet tasty and beautiful.
Margarita - Mexico
The world-famous Margarita comes from Mexico. Made with tequila as a base, there’s no surprise here. Research the best tequila brands if you want to make the most delicious Margaritas around. The other cocktail ingredients include lime juice and triple sec.
You can serve it in the typical glassware or experiment a bit with something antique, colorful, or totally unexpected in terms of shape and style.
Piña Colada - Puerto Rico
This delicious tropical cocktail comes from Puerto Rico and has a nice rum base. Mixed with coconut cream, as well as pineapple juice, this cocktail is a favorite of many people from all areas of the world. It’s a great summer cocktail to have near the pool or the beach, too.
Mojito - Cuba
Who doesn’t love a good Mohito? It’s a staple for almost every bar and restaurant’s summer menu. It’s a white rum drink with lime juice, mint leaves, sugar, and soda water. This refreshing drink deserves all the attention it gets!
Sangria - Spain
One of the best wine cocktails in the world is Sangria. The unique aromas and flavors of red or white wine combine perfectly with oranges, apples, lemons, and other fruits. When you add brandy and sweetener to the mix, you get a drink that’s perfect for brunch (see: what is brunch) and dinner, all year round!
Negroni - Italy
The Italian people gave the world a lot of enjoyable beverages and the Negroni is one of them. It’s a cocktail with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari that stuns with its simplicity and fresh flavors.
Moscow Mule - United States
Despite the name, Moscow Mule is a cocktail that comes from the US. It’s a refreshing blend of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. The drink is typically served in a copper mug that keeps it cold and fresh longer.
Gin and Tonic - United Kingdom
The people from the United Kingdom are well known for their love for the gin and tonic recipe. A simple yet tasty and beautiful drink, the G&T as they like to call it, can be garnished with lime or lemon. Some variations include cucumber but no matter what you use, the result will be amazing.
Daiquiri - Cuba
This simple Cuban cocktail has so many variations, which makes it so popular all over the globe. From Hemingway Daiquiri to Peach Daiquiri, Watermelon Daiquiri, Cherry Daiquiri, Banana Daiquiri, and Strawberry Daiquiri - there are countless versions to choose from. The Daiquiri drink offers refreshment and allows for versatility.
Made with white rum, simple syrup, and lime juice, this is a cocktail that deserves a place on any seasonal menu!
Sazerac - United States
A New Orleans classic, the Sazerac includes rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and bitters. The cocktail is a close cousin of the Old-Fashioned, which is another well-known and appreciated drink worldwide.
Irish Coffee - Ireland
Made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with whipped cream, this warming cocktail is a classic in Irish pubs. It’s considered one of the best winter cocktails to have. So if you are changing your beverage menu for the upcoming colder months or your business is in the mountains, this is a must-have beverage to serve.
French 75 - France
A Champagne-based cocktail with gin, lemon juice, and sugar, the French 75 is named after a World War I artillery piece. It’s a sophisticated and refreshing option that can be enjoyed all year round.
Porto Tonico - Portugal
A great cocktail from Portugal that needs more attention is the Porto Tonico. The cocktail is made with white port wine and tonic water, often served with a lemon twist. Yet another amazing drink to serve in the hot weather!
Lychee Martini - Asia
A version of Martini that comes all the way from Asia is the Lychee Martini. A fruity cocktail with lychee liquor or syrup, with vodka and a bit of vermouth. This cocktail definitely deserves a spot in a cocktail menu, especially if you are in charge of building different types of menu for a cruise ship line. Research the best gin for Martini before you start serving it.
Calamansi Cooler - Philippines
Made with calamansi juice (a citrus fruit), rum or gin, and soda, this Filipino cocktail is a tangy and refreshing choice. This cocktail pairs well with seafood dishes, sushi, salads, and spicy cuisine. So if you are running a restaurant with Asia food, this would be a great drink to have on the menu.
Frequently Asked Questions about Common Cocktails from Around the World
Curious to know more? Read the answers to these frequently asked questions!
Was the Moscow Mule Created in Russia?
The Moscow Mule was actually created in the United States, in the Los Angeles area. This happened back in the 1940s. The "Moscow" in the name likely comes from the association with vodka.
What Makes a Cocktail a “Classic”?
A cocktail is considered a classic when it has stood the test of time and remains popular. Typically, the classic, famous cocktails are simple and people from all over the world enjoy them throughout different seasons. They show up on lists of call drinks.
Which Country Created the Most Cocktail Drinks?
The United States has a huge influence on the world of cocktails. Most of the common cocktails come from the US. Cities like New Orleans, New York, and San Francisco have been pivotal in cocktail history.