Vodka, the little “sweetener” that everyone puts in all forms of drinks these days. Want to drink orange juice, add a little vodka. Want to drink apple juice, a lil vodka wouldn’t hurt, lol. Vodka has become one of the most versatile and popular spirit that can be used in a wide variety of cocktails. However, what are the actual vodka drinks to try when you go out drinking with friends or a loved one?
This can pose a problem especially if you’re an introvert or one that does not go out much. You do not want to appear ignorant or too innocent now, do you? Whether you are a vodka connoisseur or just looking to try something new, knowing the best vodka drinks to order at a bar can really help to improve your night out. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 15 of the best vodka drinks to order at a bar and good cocktails that you should definitely consider the next time you’re out with friends. From classic favorites to trendy new concoctions, there’s something for everyone.
15 Best Vodka Drinks To Order At Any Bar
1. The Classic Vodka Martini
A vodka martini is a timeless choice. It’s elegant, simple, and always in style. To make a classic vodka martini, you’ll need:
- Vodka
- Dry vermouth
- Lemon twist or olive for garnish
Ask the bartender to mix the vodka and dry vermouth in a shaker with ice, then strain it into a chilled martini glass. You can choose to garnish it with either a lemon twist or an olive, depending on your preference. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate a straightforward and refined cocktail.
2. Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule has made a significant comeback in recent years. Served in its iconic copper mug, this drink is refreshing and has a bit of a kick. It’s ingredients include:
- Vodka
- Ginger beer
- Lime juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
The bartender will combine vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice in a copper mug filled with ice. It’s then garnished with a lime wedge. The spicy ginger beer and zesty lime make this drink both invigorating and delicious.
3. Bloody Mary
If you’re in the mood for something savory, a Bloody Mary is the way to go. Known as the ultimate brunch cocktail, it’s also a great choice any time of day. Here’s what you need:
- Vodka
- Tomato juice
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce
- Salt and pepper
- Celery stick and lemon wedge for garnish
The bartender will mix vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. The drink is usually served over ice in a tall glass and garnished with a celery stick and a lemon wedge. Some bars also offer additional garnishes like olives, pickles, or even bacon. You can choose the one you prefer as well.
4. Cosmopolitan
Made famous by "Sex and the City," the Cosmopolitan is a stylish and fruity cocktail. It’s perfect for those who like a touch of sweetness. Ingredients include:
- Vodka
- Triple sec
- Cranberry juice
- Lime juice
- Lime twist for garnish
The bartender will shake the vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice with ice, then strain it into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime twist, and you have a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
5. Vodka Tonic
For a simple yet satisfying drink, you can’t go wrong with a Vodka Tonic. This is a classic highball cocktail that’s easy to drink. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vodka
- Tonic water
- Lime wedge for garnish
The bartender will pour vodka over ice in a tall glass and top it with tonic water. It’s garnished with a lime wedge. The crisp and slightly bitter tonic water complements the vodka perfectly, making it a refreshing choice.
6. Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is another straightforward option that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy citrus flavors. Ingredients are:
- Vodka
- Orange juice
- Orange slice for garnish
The bartender will mix vodka and orange juice in a glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange slice. The sweetness of the orange juice pairs well with the vodka, making it a bright and cheerful cocktail.
7. White Russian
If you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent, the White Russian is an excellent choice. It’s a rich and satisfying drink that’s perfect for dessert. You’ll need:
- Vodka
- Coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- Heavy cream
The bartender will pour vodka and coffee liqueur over ice in a glass and then top it with heavy cream. The result is a smooth and decadent cocktail that’s sure to please.
8. Lemon Drop Martini
For a tart and sweet option, try a Lemon Drop Martini. This drink is both refreshing and delicious. Ingredients include:
- Vodka
- Triple sec
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Lemon twist for garnish
- Sugar for rimming the glass
The bartender will shake vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain it into a sugar-rimmed martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist. The combination of tart lemon and sweet syrup makes this cocktail a delightful choice.
9. Black Russian
Similar to the White Russian but without the cream, the Black Russian is a bold and straightforward cocktail. Here’s what you need:
- Vodka
- Coffee liqueur
The bartender will mix vodka and coffee liqueur over ice in a glass. This drink is simple yet flavorful, perfect for those who enjoy the rich taste of coffee.
10. Sea Breeze
The Sea Breeze is a fruity and refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm weather. Ingredients include:
- Vodka
- Cranberry juice
- Grapefruit juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
The bartender will mix vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice over ice in a glass. Garnish with a lime wedge. The combination of tart grapefruit and sweet cranberry makes this a refreshing and balanced cocktail.
11. Greyhound
For those who love grapefruit, the Greyhound is a must-try. It’s simple, tart, and refreshing. Here’s what you need:
- Vodka
- Grapefruit juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
The bartender will pour vodka and grapefruit juice over ice in a glass. Garnish with a lime wedge. If you’re a lover of grapes and grapefruits, then the tangy grapefruit juice taste will make this drink both invigorating and delicious for you.
12. Vodka Collins
The Vodka Collins is a vodka-based twist on the classic Tom Collins. It’s light, fizzy, and refreshing. Ingredients include:
- Vodka
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Club soda
- Lemon slice and cherry for garnish
The bartender will shake vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain it into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon slice and cherry. The result is a refreshing and effervescent drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
13. Caipiroska
A twist on the Brazilian Caipirinha, the Caipiroska uses vodka instead of cachaça. It’s a fresh and zesty cocktail. Here’s what you need:
- Vodka
- Lime
- Sugar
- Ice
The bartender will muddle lime and sugar in a glass, then add vodka and ice. The result is a refreshing and citrusy drink that’s perfect for hot days.
14. Espresso Martini
For those who love coffee, the Espresso Martini is a must-try. It’s a rich and invigorating cocktail that combines vodka with the bold flavors of espresso. Ingredients include:
- Vodka
- Espresso
- Coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- Simple syrup
The bartender will shake vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup with ice, then strain it into a martini glass. The combination of caffeine and alcohol makes this a perfect pick-me-up drink.
15. Gimlet
The Vodka Gimlet is a simple and classic cocktail that’s both tart and sweet. Here’s what you need:
- Vodka
- Lime juice
- Simple syrup
- Lime wedge for garnish
The bartender will shake vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice, then strain it into a glass. Garnish with a lime wedge. This drink is crisp and refreshing, making it a great choice for any time of year.
Conclusion
When it comes to vodka cocktails, there’s something for everyone. Finding out what suits you among the top best vodka drinks to have at a bar is not so hard, trust me. Whether you prefer something classic and straightforward like the Vodka Martini or something fruity and refreshing like the Sea Breeze, knowing the best vodka drinks to order at a bar can help you enjoy your night out even more.
So, the next time you find yourself at a bar, or any occasion that warrants serving cocktails, don’t hesitate to try one of these delicious treats. Cheers!
All images are sourced from pixabay & Featured Image by Travis Rainey, Food Styling By Emilie Fosnocht
