Bartenders reveal what they really think of 16 popular drink orders

Marilyn La JeunesseJun 13, 2020, 01:54 IST

Some drinks are more frustrating for bartenders to make than others.Virginia Sherwood/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty

Insider asked current and former bartenders about their thoughts on some popular cocktail orders.
Mojitos are a great choice, but they can be frustrating for bartenders to make in bulk.
Oftentimes bartenders are happy to make a whiskey ginger or vodka soda, since they're easy to prepare and difficult to mess up.
Bartenders praised margaritas for being fun and versatile drinks.

Ordering a drink at a bar can be daunting, especially when there are so many options to choose from.

That said, bartenders have a lot of thoughts on common cocktail orders — and it may not be surprising that some are more welcome than others.

Here's what bartenders really think about common cocktail orders, plus a few of their suggestions for ordering them.

Long Island iced teas are a polarizing drink order.

Long Island iced teas are known for being strong because they contain multiple kinds of alcohol. photosimysia/Getty Images

An Old Fashioned is a wise order if you want to ease your way into the world of dark liquors — but don't expect these to taste the same at every bar.

Old Fashioneds often contain bourbon. iStock

A martini is a solid drink choice, especially if your order is specific.

There are many ways to order a martini. AP Photo/Eric Risberg

Gin and tonics are a great go-to drink to order.

When ordering a gin and tonic, consider requesting a specific type of gin. ahirao_photo/Getty Images

Some bartenders like when adventurous orderers request the "dealer's choice." Just be sure to let them know some flavors you enjoy.

When ordering the "dealer's choice," let the bartender know what sort of drinks you enjoy. Marilyn La Jeunesse

Bartenders who spoke to Insider seem to agree that mojitos are a great choice, though they're somewhat annoying to make.

Mojitos can be a bartender's worst nightmare. alfredo ravanetti/Shutterstock

Whiskey gingers are usually a safe order at any bar.

Whiskey gingers are made with just two ingredients. Shutterstock

A New York sour is a refined and elegant cocktail order.

A New York sour mixes bourbon and red wine. Shutterstock

A Bloody Mary is a brunch staple, and if you like it you may enjoy other savory cocktails.

Bloody Marys often come garnished with celery. shutterbugger / iStock

Ordering a Sazerac outside of New Orleans won't be the same.

A Sazerac has just a few ingredients. Judi Bottoni/AP

Margaritas are a classic party cocktail, and some bartenders say this drink signifies someone's trying to have a good time.

Margaritas come in many flavors. yagmradam/Getty Images

These bartenders agree that vodka sodas are simple and hard to get wrong.

A vodka soda served in a highball. Shutterstock/Brent Hofacker

For some bartenders, daiquiris are an underrated drink.

Daiquiris only require a few ingredients. Getty

Bartenders have mixed feelings about Negronis.

The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail. Tom Murray / Insider

Sangria is a flavorful alternative to a standard mimosa at brunch.

Sangria is a popular brunch order. Piotr Jaczewski/Getty Images

There are a few variations of the cosmopolitan, and it's a classic for a reason.

Cosmopolitans are known for their vibrant color. bogdanhoda/Shutterstock

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