Are you a budding barkeep looking to brush up on your cocktail knowledge? Maybe you’re a savvy owner doing research for your next drink menu. Whatever the case, it’s time to get schooled in mixology with Uncovering Exciting Cocktail Recipes from around the World! It’s like drinking around the world at Epcot, but better, ‘cause I’m your host!
Here we’ll uncover all of the secret ingredients and strategies needed for perfecting as many country classic concoctions, all with help from the pros at Local Bartending School.
Stick around as we take you through some serious sipping around the world, from Canada to China—bottoms up!
Drinks All Around the World
What are the Most-Sought After Flavors on Earth?
Move over regional cocktails, we’re taking a bit of time for some global favorites!
It seems bartenders around the world have figured out what’s trending; here’s what a little bartender research has found:
- Mojitos are number one on the list, with a whopping 56% of countries searching for this fruity blend of rum, mint, sugar, lime, and soda water.
- The timeless classic Martini follows closely in popularity.
- Mimosas came in at number three in popularity.
So if you’re ever confused about what to order when your bartender asks which country cocktail you’d like – go for a mojito – because the data shows, the odds are in your favor for your guest loving it!
Get In, Bartender. We’re Making Cocktails (Around the World)
United States - Margarita
A classic tequila-based cocktail made with triple sec and lime juice, this is a favorite when it comes to ordering a drink in America.
This cocktail has been around for decades on decades on decades, but its origin story is still shrouded in mystery (much like where the manager goes during the rush). Whether you choose to add salt, sugar or nothing at all, the refreshing combination of tart lime and sweet triple sec make this beverage one of the favorites here for us in the United States.
Mexico - Margarita or Paloma: The World May Never Know, So Your Guest Will Decide
We covered Margaritas earlier when we explored the great U.S. of A.
Next up on our journey, we’re looking at a Mexican favorite that is perfect for enjoying on sunny days at your local taqueria or cantina. Palomas are made with tequila and grapefruit juice, and topped off with soda water for a light and bubbly kick. If your guest is looking for a spicy variation to really zest things up, try adding a pinch of chili powder or fresh jalapeno slices for an extra spicy punch!
UK - Gin and Tonic
There’s nothing like a Gin and Tonic in the summertime, and as stats show, it’s the country’s most-sold cocktail.
But if you want to make an extra special G&T that’ll keep the punters coming back for more, follow these tips. Use premium gin, fresh lime juice, and a good quality tonic water to really do the classic cocktail justice.
Add cucumber slices or juniper berries for added flavor, bonus points, and a happy guest!
Molecular mixology is also gaining momentum, which has bartenders making country cocktails with every imaginable twist. So if you’re looking to wow your customers with something new, get creative with some inspiration form our friends across the pond.
Spain - Sangria
Sangria is here to stay because of how good it tastes and how easy it is to make.
Bartenders should know that Spain’s favorite cocktail isn’t just delicious, but also super simple!
Start with a good red wine base and add whatever juicy fruit you have on hand. Throw in any sweet liqueur for extra flavor, and top off with some sparkling soda, and mirar! You’ve created a Spain-approved crowd-pleaser.
As for bar owners, don’t forget those group cocktails are in high demand – sangria included! All around the world cocktails come in large batches meant to share, so bringing in colorful and creative pitchers of sangria can definitely score you some more patrons looking for some quality cocktails from a variety of cultures.
Italy - Bellini
The next time you’re looking for something to add some pizzazz to your cocktails menu, explore recipes from cocktails from all around the world – like the bellini!
Bellinis are cocktails from Italy that have become increasingly popular in the U.S. in recent years, too. If your guest is sick of mimosas at brunch, they may like bellini to switch things up.
Some fun facts about these cocktails; they get their signature pink hue from red peach juice and can be made with a variety of fruits such as mangoes and strawberries too!
Our Italian bartender friends have created a combination of Prosecco, peach puree, and sometimes other fruit juices to create this bubbly concoction.
Although there is debate about the exact origin, it’s believed to have been invented in the 1930s at Harry’s Bar in Venice.
To make a great batch of bellini’s yourself, begin by adding 1 part peach puree and 2 parts prosecco in a glass. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try making yours with frozen fruits or even a few drops of liqueur!
Another variation of the Italian favorite you might want to try is to serve it frozen (aka blended).
France - Mauresco
Aurélie Panhelleux, a bar owner, isn’t exaggerating. Pastis proudly stands as a beacon of French culture, dating all the way back to the early 1800s when a soldier had the revolutionary idea of mixing absinthe and water.
Since then, it’s become an iconic French experience.
Mauresco is a French cocktail that has been around for centuries.
Though the original version was made with absinthe, modern iterations usually contain gin, pastis (an anise-flavored liqueur), lemon juice, orgeat syrup, and fresh dill. We love adding our own twist to cocktails from all around the world and our favorite way to enjoy Mauresco is with a hint of lime or mint.
To make the perfect Mauresque according to cocktails experts in France, start with 1 ½ oz. gin, ¼ oz. pastis, ¾ oz. lemon juice, mix in ½ oz. orgeat with freshly chopped dill (filtered!), then add ⅓ oz egg white into a shaker full of ice. Shake it up to perfection and serve it in a coupe glass.
Germany - Michelada
Germany’s famous cocktail, the Michelada, is a mixologist’s delight or downfall.
While its mystery ingredients may vary from recipe to recipe, the traditional version consists of bright lager beer mixed with tomato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and lime juice. The result? A zesty concoction that packs a ton of flavor in one glass.
Long prized for their bold taste and refreshing quality, Micheladas are definitely not for the lighthearted – when it comes to flair and attitude, this drink takes the podium. So brave Germans (or non-Germans!) guests eager to take their palate on an adventure should start sipping on this popular treat.
Canada - Caesar
The Caesar cocktail isn’t just popular in Canada – it’s a cultural icon. Canadians have their own distinctive version of the bloody mary cocktail. Inventive, delicious, and quintessentially Canadian.
It’s often said that if you’re going to make a Caesar, you have to do it like a true Canuck.
So here are the top tips for making the perfect Caesar:
start with warm tomato juice and add Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco and salt for some kicks; finish off with vodka, celery salt and a lime wedge for tangy goodness.
Bartenders, tell your customers and regulars about how we owe the popularity of the Caesar to Walter Chell from Calgary. He was inspired by his friend’s suggestion to “create something unique”.
That’s why the Caesar will always stand out!
Australia - Coffee-Based Martinis (Like an Espresso Martini)
Want to make like an Aussie and provide a caffeine buzz in style? You can do that by suggesting one of Australia’s most popular cocktail trends, coffee-based martinis!
From classic espresso martinis to salted caramel versions if you’re feeling fancy, there’s a flavor combination for everyone.
You should know that the Australian bar culture is super friendly. So if you’re going to be serving it up Aussie style, you’re best to do it with a smile.
The Impact of Australian Bar Culture
Emma had just moved to Australia, and she was excited to explore the new country. After a few days of sightseeing, she decided it was time for her first night out in Australia. She went to a bar near her hotel, ready for an adventure.
But what Emma found when she arrived at the bar left her speechless: everyone there was so friendly! Every person who walked by greeted her with a smile or nod of their head; even staff members welcomed her warmly as soon as she stepped inside the door.
At first, Emma couldn’t believe how nice everyone was being – after all, this wasn’t something that happened often back home! But then again, maybe this is how people were in Australia? She felt grateful that such kindness existed here and began talking with some of the other patrons at the bar.
As they talked about life in Australia and shared stories from their own travels around the world, Emma started feeling more connected than ever before – not only with these strangers but also with herself. It seemed like no matter where you go on Earth, people are always ready to extend warmth towards one another if given half a chance.
By the end of the night, Emma felt thankful for having gone out and meeting new people – something which had been hard for her since moving overseas but now seemed much easier thanks to all those kind Australians at the bar!
Let Your (Country) Flag Fly!
There’s nothing that quite screams country pride quite like hanging a flag up to fly in the wind.
But since we are bartenders, there’s only so much we can do. And that, my friends, is to make cocktails and shots that look like flags.
So before we get going, check out this video where you can see how each country’s shot was actually made.
Though, I am calling bull**** on Turkey’s flag. Watch the video to see what I mean!
Cocktails with Country’s Flag Recipe in the Video:
- Kurdistan
- Iraq
- Syria
- Indonesia
- Kuwait
- Turkey
- India
- UAE
- Brazil
- Argentina
- China
United States of America
If you’re looking for a patriotic shot, look no further than the good old USA. This flag-inspired shot is made with vodka, blue Curacao, and grenadine, and is sure to get you feeling festive.
Canada
Show your Canadian pride with this red and white shot. It’s made with vodka, cranberry juice, and white Creme de Menthe, and is the perfect way to show your love for your northern neighbor.
Mexico
This tequila-based shot is perfect for Cinco de Mayo or any other time you’re feeling festive. It’s made with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, and is sure to put a smile on your face.
Brazil
This Brazilian-inspired shot is made with cachaca, passion fruit juice, and lime juice. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Brazil without having to leave your home.
Bonus! Easy Flag Shots You Can Make Today
- Canada
- Ireland
- United Kingdom
- Italy
- France
Now You’re Ready for Cocktail Sales that are Out of this World!
Whether you’re looking for something fruity like a Paloma or something packed full of liquor like a German Bloody Mary—these international favorites will leave your guests wanting more no matter where you’re bartending!
Bar owners, are you want to start making these delicious drinks for your bar today? Sign up for lessons from Local Bartending School today; they’ll teach you and your team how to create incredible cocktails just like these ones! All while pouring the right amount each and every time so your costs are smooth sailing.
So why not take your bar game global? Let us know which international cocktail was your favorite! We’re always checking comments here or even on social! Links are below for you.
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