15 Most Popular Cocktails to Try Out in 2025

Hi, we are Equal Parts Cocktail Co. The reason we’re writing this blog is to provide you with an unbiased list of the best and most popular cocktails that will knock your socks off in 2025.

We’ve always believed that a great cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a story in a glass. Over the years, we’ve experimented with countless recipes and traveled far and wide in search of that perfect balance of flavors. 

Today, we’re excited to share our journey with the 15 most popular cocktails that have not only defined cocktail culture but also hold a special place in our hearts. Grab a shaker, your favorite cocktail glass, and join us as we walk you through our favorite drinks.

Here is a List Of the 15 Most Popular Cocktails Recipes in the US

1. Old Fashioned

You know, there’s something timeless about the old-fashioned. I still remember the first time I sipped one at a dimly lit bar with vintage decor—it was as if time had slowed down. You can make this classic cocktail for yourself, stir over ice some bourbon (or rye), a sugar cube (or simple syrup), a couple of dashes of bitters, and a twist of orange peel. Voila! 

You’ll know that you’ve made something amazing. This drink is simple yet sophisticated. If you ask me, it’s the perfect introduction to the world of cocktails.

2. Negroni 

My love affair with the Negroni began at my favorite Italian restaurant. Every time I stir a Negroni, I feel like I've been transported to a cozy Italian trattoria, where the conversation flows as freely as the drinks. To make one for yourself, you’ll need equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth - stirred over ice until properly chilled and diluted.

3. Margarita

No list of cocktails would be complete without the Margarita. Whether you are soaking up the sun on a lazy afternoon or hosting a party at home, this tequila classic always brings a burst of refreshing brightness. You can make this delicious cocktail for yourself with fresh lime juice, agave nectar, orange liqueur, and, of course, tequila (and a salted rim for that extra zing). It’s my go-to drink when I need a little taste of summer.

4. Manhattan

Well, the Manhattan has become the epitome of urban cool. I first encountered this cocktail in a sleek, upscale bar, where the aroma of rye whiskey mixed with sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters set the mood for a memorable evening. With each sip, this drink reminds me of crisp autumn nights and the soft glow of city lights. So, if you want to try out a sophisticated choice that never goes out of style, a Manhattan is the drink for you.

5. Mojito

Whenever I crave a cocktail that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a hot day, I reach for a Mojito. This refreshing drink is made with white rum, fresh lime juice, mint leaves, sugar, and club soda. It is light, invigorating, and perfect for summer gatherings. I love shaking the mint leaves right inside the shaker - then straining - so that every sip bursts with that unmistakable, garden-fresh flavor.

At Equal Parts Cocktail Co - our line of cocktail kits feature wildly creative

and fantastically delicious recipes. Every cocktail kit features both boozy and booze-free recipes.

6. Martini

Ah, the classic Martini — arguably the most iconic cocktail of all time. Whether you prefer it with gin or vodka, shaken rather than stirred, this drink exudes elegance. I have fond memories of stirring up martinis for my guests while they were engrossed in late-night conversations with friends in chic cocktail lounges. 

My Pro Tip: A classic garnish of a lemon twist or an olive makes all the difference, adding that subtle nuance of brine or citrus.

7. Cosmopolitan

Popularized in the ’90s and immortalized on TV, the Cosmopolitan holds a special place in our cocktail repertoire. It has a vibrant pink hue, thanks to the cranberry juice that’s shaken with vodka, orange liqueur (triple sec, cointreau) and fresh lime juice, it always makes me smile. It’s a perfect drink for your friends at get-togethers bringing in a playful and refined balance for a night out or a celebratory toast.

8. Bloody Mary

The Bloody Mary is more than just a cocktail—it’s a brunch tradition. I’ve always loved how this savory mix of vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, and a medley of spices can be as creative as it is classic. Over the years, I’ve experimented with garnishes ranging from celery sticks to pickled vegetables, making every Bloody Mary a unique, personalized experience.

9. Moscow Mule

There’s a reason I always make a Moscow Mule when I’m with friends on a chilly evening. When served in a striking copper mug, this cocktail blends vodka, spicy ginger beer, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice into a refreshing and slightly fiery mix. The zing of ginger and the cool tang of lime create a harmony that’s both invigorating and comforting.

10. Aperol Spritz

The Aperol Spritz can be your drink of choice when you need something light and celebratory. With its bright orange hue and effervescent mix of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, it’s a cocktail that instantly lifts the spirits.

I often find myself enjoying one on a lazy Sunday afternoon or at the start of a festive gathering—it’s like a liquid invitation to enjoy life.

For every cocktail kit we ship, we plant a tree.

Every. Single. One.

11. Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is ideal for the evenings when you crave a little caffeine kick in your cocktail. It never disappoints. Combining the rich flavors of coffee liqueur with vodka, and a shot of freshly brewed espresso, it’s the perfect pick-me-up after dinner. With each sip, you’ll feel a delightful blend of smooth, bold coffee notes and a subtle boozy warmth.

12. Piña Colada

Even if you are not on a tropical vacation, a Piña Colada can whisk you and your crew to a sandy beach with a gentle ocean breeze. This velvety concoction of rum, cream of coconut, pineapple juice and lime juice is on the sweeter side, yet irresistibly tropical. 

It’s my ultimate escape in a glass, especially when I need a little vacation vibe in the middle of a hectic week.

13. Daiquiri

The classic Daiquiri is a study in simplicity—just rum, lime juice, and a touch of sugar. I appreciate its balance of tart and sweet flavors, and it’s a cocktail that I can enjoy anytime, whether I’m relaxing at home or celebrating with friends. It’s a timeless recipe that showcases how a few quality ingredients can create pure magic.

14. Caipirinha

Originating from Brazil, the Caipirinha is a cocktail that packs a punch with its bold flavors. You can be a bartender and make one for yourself with cachaça, fresh lime, and sugar. I love its rustic simplicity and the way it evokes the vibrant street culture of Brazil. It’s a drink that reminds me to embrace life with a bit of funky zest and spontaneity.

15. Whiskey Sour

Last on the list, but certainly not least, the Whiskey Sour. It is one of the most popular drinks and offers a perfect balance of sweet and sour that I find irresistible. With its mix of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup (often with an egg white shaken in), this cocktail is both refreshing and complex. 

It’s a drink that brings comfort on cooler evenings and always feels like the right choice when I need a little warmth in my glass.

Final Thoughts on the Most Popular Cocktails in the U.S - 2025

Each of these 15 cocktails carries its own story, flavor, and history—and each one has played a part in shaping our own cocktail journey. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious beginner, we hope this list inspires you to explore new recipes, experiment with your ingredients, and, most importantly, enjoy every sip along the way. 

Cheers to the art of cocktail making and to many more delicious adventures!

Why You Need A Signature Cocktail For Your Brand

(Blog & Cocktail Collaboration with the Amazing Duo Collective To Celebrate National Cocktail Day!)

Does this question even need to be asked? We knew there was no better way to celebrate National Cocktail Day than by creating our very own signature cocktail. Luckily, our client Equal Parts Cocktail Company was all in! Now we are on a mission to spread the importance of signature cocktails everywhere from personal brands to special events and just-for-fun occasions. Plus, stay tuned, because we are sharing our signature cocktail recipe below!

Why You Need A Signature Cocktail

Have you ever been to an event where a signature cocktail was served? Maybe it was a wedding, cocktail party, networking event or special birthday celebration. Regardless of where it was, you likely felt impressed and immediately needed to get your hands on that cocktail!

We are always looking for ways to stand out and make a splash from Instagram to Pinterest. We want marketing that differentiates us and makes us unique. And we want events where the experience itself spreads like wildfire — in a good way! What better way to make these events or your brand alone, unique and memorable? If that didn't convince you... here's a few more reasons why you need a signature cocktail in your life:

• Showcase your unique personality

• Stand out and make a memorable mark on your audience

• Be fun and relatable on all levels from corporate networking events to bachelorettes

• It's an amazing opportunity to collaborate and partner with new people and businesses

• You can save yourself some money — for events specifically, close the open bar and serve this instead!

How The Signature Cocktail Collaboration Came To Be

If this is inspiring you, then we figured you might want to see a little behind the scenes of how this whole signature cocktail idea came to life. A while back we worked with Equal Parts Cocktail Company on an SEO strategy for their virtual cocktail events during the pandemic. We absolutely loved working with Simeon and we knew our audience would love this content too. After all, beverages are engrained through our brand already with our Tuesday Tips & Sips newsletter! So, we simply asked if he could create a personalized Duo beverage for us. He already knew our personality and along with a few additional questions around our beverage and drink preferences, he created the cocktail of our dreams!

Of course none of this could come to life without our brand photographer, Julie Greer Photography. And obviously, she too needed a personalized beverage. With the magic of her studio and a few amateur mixologists, we created our signature cocktails!

We know what you are thinking — "enough already, just give us the cocktail recipes!" We won't keep you waiting any longer! Grab all the ingredients and directions below to make our signature cocktails all thanks to Equal Parts Cocktail Company! Cheers!

THE DUO 75

(French 75 & Herb Duo)

Duo Collective Signature Cocktail

Cocktail Ingredients:

1.5 oz. gin

0.75 oz. lemon juice

0.75 oz. simple syrup

2 oz. dry sparkling wine

Fresh rosemary

Fresh thyme

We also love to use local when we can, so for this we tried Far North Spirits Solveig Gin (p.s. it was amazing!)

Cocktail Recipe Instructions:

Place two 2-inch sprigs of rosemary into a cocktail shaker and press firmly on them with the end of a muddler to release some of their essential oils. 

Add to the shaker three 2-inch sprigs of thyme along with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and plenty of ice (about 1/2 to 2/3rds of the cup with ice cubes). 

Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to allow ice to further extract flavor from the herbs (this technique is called a royal shake - when the ice is used to extract flavor from a solid). 

Double strain (pour through a standard cocktail strainer AND a fine mesh strain to remove all herb fragments and ice) into a chilled champagne flute. Top with 2 oz. of a dry sparkling wine. 

Garnish with a duo of herbs - a sprig of rosemary nicely laced with a sprig of thyme - along with a small peel of lemon or grapefruit (either quarter sized and round, or a long narrow strip).

Recipe Twists & Variations:

Twist #1 - try toasting the rosemary sprigs over an open flame prior to placing them into the shaker - for a smokey variation.

Twist #2 - for the wine, try substituting a sparkling rosé

PICTURE PERFECT

(Pomegranate Mojito)

Julie Greer Photography Signature Cocktail

Cocktail Ingredients:

1.5 oz. rum

0.75 oz. fresh lime juice

0.5 oz. simple syrup

1 oz. pomegranate juice

1 oz. club soda

Mint

Pomegranate arils

Cocktail Recipe Instructions:

Add to a cocktail shaker the rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and 8-10 plucked mint leaves along with plenty of ice (about 1/2 to 2/3rds of the cup with ice cubes).

Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to allow ice to further extract flavor from the herbs (this technique is called a royal shake - when the ice is used to extract flavor from a solid). 

Double strain (pour through a standard cocktail strainer AND a fine mesh strain to remove all herb fragments and ice) into a Collins glass (tall, narrow glass). Add the pomegranate juice and club soda, then fill glass with fresh ice cubes.

Garnish with a lovely bouquet of fresh mint sprigs and a few (or many) pomegranate arils. Straw optional & enjoy!

How To Work With Equal Parts Cocktail Company

There are so many ways you can work with Equal Parts Cocktail Company regardless of where you are located. So take a peek below and be sure to follow them on Instagram and obviously tell all your friends!

Cocktail Catering for Local Minnesotans

We specialize in signature craft cocktails, utilizing fresh, homemade ingredients - highlighting flavor profiles that will resonate with your personal style, palate and event day.

Virtual Cocktail Classes For Everyone!

We offer a wide variety of virtual cocktail classes that can be customized to fit any event, with the added option to send cocktail kits to your guests!

Cheers, Friends!

Zoom Happy Hour: How to Host the Best Virtual Event for Your Team

Office culture has been forever changed thanks to the pandemic. While many workers have eased into a new work environment within their homes, what’s missing from the new model is the conviviality of getting together with co-workers and work friends for after-hours bonding, blowing off steam, and building employee morale. Without the ability to pop your head inside someone’s office door or awaiting happy-hour on the building’s first floor, it’s not nearly as easy as it once was to set up some post-work events. Even while working remotely, or spread out in pods, it’s still possible to set up time to bond, enjoy a beverage, and build a fun reward for employees. Here’s how to plan a fantastic remote happy hour over Zoom. 

1. Set the Time & Vibe: Set up a calendar invite, but pay close attention to the language and your tone. A simple invite for drinking will suffice, however adding a theme or timely reason for the event will pull people in more readily, and set the stage for relaxation and fun. Timing is best at the end of the work day, but before dinner time. A 4pm happy hour in an office that usually works until 5:30 is perfect. Anything later than an hour after the work day typically draws fewer attendees (and could feel like a chore - when this is fun!).
   

2. Add a Guest List: The best happy hours include a team of at least three and up to 12 people. Larger groups can make it more difficult for free-flowing conversation, and can make some feel less engaged.
   

3. Choose a Platform: Pick the best meeting software. It’s best to use the same platform everyone has downloaded. Free Zoom holds allure, but there is no bigger bummer than losing the link thanks to the 40 minute time limit.
   

4. Create Engagement: Keep your fun from feeling like Forced Family Fun Time by creating opportunities for engagement (this will also save you from the dreaded dead eyes or awkward talk-overs). Designate yourself Cruise Director and check in with everyone as they’ve dialed in. Ask everyone where they are and what they’re drinking. See if you can draw a correlation between the work day and the kind of drink. (For example: Light beer: super easy flow work day with some satisfying accomplishments. Old Fashioned: Every client meeting was like pulling teeth, requiring a good dose of grandpa’s cough medicine. Gin and Tonic: You came to party. Wine: yoga pants dress code. Jägermeister: no morning meetings planned now, or ever.)
   

5. Go Pro: To really amp up the experience, plan a virtual cocktail class with the happy hour. Equal Parts Cocktail Co. can kick off the party - and take the pressure off - by walking everyone through how to make a classic cocktail. With straightforward instructions, useful tips, and the ease created by a professional bartender, conversations flow much more smoothly and the bonding experience of learning something new sets the stage for even better team building.

Schedule your teams’s virtual happy hour event now!

Virtual Cocktail Party

Wedding rescheduled? Let’s ring in your day that should have been in a special new way, with a Virtual Cocktail Party!

Even though your date has changed, that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate your original date too! 

Gather your bridal party, family, close friends, faraway friends (or everyone!) and celebrate your original wedding date by throwing a Virtual Cocktail Party with Equal Parts Cocktail Company.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Equal Parts has continued to serve our clients in new and unforeseen ways, as we all struggle to connect from a distance. Virtual Cocktail Classes have been a blessing in disguise. They’ve been an amazing way to connect with guests far and wide and spend some unforgettable time together temporarily-forgetting all the news that has made simple joy so difficult to hold onto.

We will guide you and your guests through the history of bartending and cocktails, discussing a few key techniques for making killer cocktails at home. We’ll chat about ice, dilution, citrus, bar tool etiquette, etc.  

We’ll shake cocktails, we’ll stir cocktails, we’ll laugh, we’ll drink, we’ll be merry —while you wait a little longer to get married ;)

Each guest will be provided with a short list of ingredients to have on hand before the event (think a few lemons or limes, ice, sugar, favorite spirit). This, plus a computer or tablet and decent internet connection and we’re ready to cheers the happy couple!

Treat yourself to an evening you and your guests will never forget.  

Featured on Forever Bride. Read more here.

Hi, how are you? I’m Simeon, and I’ll be your bartender.

Even now, after years of presenting myself this way, I still get a thrill every time a guest or client puts their faith in me. This is your moment, and I have the opportunity to help make that moment of your life memorable. I never take that trust for granted, I push myself to create fantastic cocktail experiences for my guests and clients.

For me, bartending at its true core is simply hospitality. Sure, we’re here to mix you that perfect cocktail, but before that we’re here to welcome you and serve you with our very best attitude, knowledge and smiling faces. Our job is to treat you as we would treat a guest in our own home.

I’ve always felt this is what makes bartending so special. We, as bartenders, get to stand (we’re always standing, like, seriously…always) in front of you and remain there throughout your entire experience. We’re here to greet you, we’re part of your introduction to the bar/space, your ordering process, your small talk, and your farewell. We’re right here with you from first sip to last drop.

The restaurant & bar industry has been a part of my life for 19 years. From slapping together sandwiches at the Minnesota State Fair during high school, to bussing tables, to cleaning fryers…you name it. The last eight years have have been spent behind the bar. 

I first had the opportunity to tend bar for private parties a little over four years ago. I was also taking business management courses at the time, and tasked with creating a business-on-paper as the semester project. My love for private event bartending was blossoming, as was my determination to set out on my own one day, and become my own boss. In that moment an idea dawned, create a mobile cocktail business that could elevate the drinking culture of private events in Minnesota. This was no school assignment, it was a new calling.

In March of 2018 my wife and I formed the new business (funny story, it was that same exact week that we found out she was pregnant with our first child!).

The last 21 months has been a rollercoaster of emotions, to say the least….and to say it in a cliche way;) We’ve prepared for parenthood, brought a business out of its infancy, and welcomed an actual infant into the world….and we’re still grinning from ear to ear.

Special event bartending is like regular bartending turned up to eleven. All the highs of regular bartending are amplified by the fact that we’re always, day in and day out, graced with opportunities to share people’s special occasions with them. And while doing so, take all of the stress, guesswork and actual work off of their shoulders so that they (and their guests) can sit back, relax and be taken care of.

Thanks for listening, I sincerely hope to be serving our finest beverage and hospitality at an event near you soon:)

Cheers!
-Simeon