Draw in summer crowds with a twist on classic cocktails

Cocktail fans are drinking out 25% more often than the average consumer, making it important to cater for their every desire. Those who drink cocktails are also more adventurous and are twice as likely to try new drinks, so it’s simply not enough to offer the same boring cocktails as every other bar. When creating a new cocktail menu keep in mind that men account for 45% of cocktail drinkers and 29% of drinkers now prefer to order skinny options. To help you create the perfect cocktail menu and give your customers something new to try we’ve compiled a list of ten cocktails guaranteed to please.

Rum & Tonic
With gin rising in popularity everyone’s already tried a gin & tonic but have they ever thought to try a rum & tonic? Like with gin, tonics highlight the different flavours of the rum giving a surprising harmony.

#rumandtonic is the perfect afternoon #refresher #flordecaña #7años #girlslunch

A post shared by Ashela Richardson (@ashelab) on Apr 20, 2016 at 12:20pm PDT

Tomato Mojito
Take the classic mojito and swap rum for tequila, add tomato and you’ve got an out of the box but enticing new drink. It may not be everyone’s drink of choice but It will definitely get them talking.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNZkXqcDQlU/?hl=en

Kiwi Margarita
We’re not in the 30’s anymore, its time for a rejuvenation of the traditional margarita. Simply add kiwi syrup and some of the fresh fruit to a regular recipe and you’ve got a fresh new flavour.

It's Friday eve! Thursday is my favorite day of the week because the anticipation for the weekend is REAL. if you guys can still find kiwi berries right now… these kiwi margaritas for the happiest hour are a must! . . . http://www.howsweeteats.com/2015/04/kiwi-margaritas/ . . . #f52grams #fwx #buzzfeast #eeeeeats #feedfeed #foodblogfeed #foodandwine #beautifulcuisines #bhgfood #marthafood #RSlove #thekitchn #bareaders #theeverygirl #foodblogeats #eatingfortheinsta #ABMfoodie #eattheworld #huffposttaste #lifeandthyme #thatsdarling #howsweeteats #pursuepretty #mywilliamssonoma #hautecuisines

A post shared by Jessica Merchant (@howsweeteats) on Mar 23, 2017 at 1:50pm PDT

Sangria Sparkler
Perfect for sharing this sangria variation is only 100 calories per serve, when made right. With a sweet but refreshing flavour the drink will be a hit, especially with those returning from a Spanish getaway.

I don't think you're ready for this jelly #miami #sparklingsangria #yesplease

A post shared by C H £ R Y L £ £ (@itsmecherylee) on Jun 25, 2017 at 10:22am PDT

Pear Martini

Not as dry as the original but just as elegant the pear martini is still just as easy to make, tricking your customers into thinking their ordering a much classier drink.

When the bestie suggest we try a new bar. #somanyrepublicans #hayadams #dc #bar #bestie #pearmartini #latergram

A post shared by Mario Dasilva (@mndasilva) on Mar 31, 2017 at 12:15pm PDT

Basil Bloody Mary
Pair with a sharing platter of dips, cheese and meats to really sell this Bloody Mary alternative. The unique flavour the basil gives will be a delightful surprise to those game enough to try.

#basilbloodymary

A post shared by Hector Perez (@happyendingsmixologist) on Aug 6, 2016 at 8:09pm PDT

Dark & Stormy
Not all cocktails need to be fruity, the Dark & Stormy made with ginger and rum will please even the pickiest of customers and can even be a great substitute to beer.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUPy97olE5d/?tagged=darkandstormy&hl=en

Blueberry Mint Juleps
Blueberries are full of healthy nutrients and rich in antioxidants, a great selling point for this twist on mint juleps. Who can say no to a nutritious cocktail!

Today's Mint Julep Recipe Blueberry Mint Juleps yield: makes 1 serving, is easily multiplied total time: 10 minutes ingredients: 2 1/2 ounces bourbon 1 ounce mint simple syrup 1 ounce mint blueberry puree crushed ice fresh mint leaves mint simple syrup 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup water 1 bunch of mint leaves blueberry mint puree 2/3 cup fresh blueberries 2 tablespoons mint simple syrup directions: Combine bourbon, mint simple syrup and mint blueberry puree together and shake or stir well. Pour over crushed iced and serve with extra mint leaves. mint simple syrup Combine sugar, mint and water together in a small saucepan and heat over high heat until boiling, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and cook for another minute or so, then set aside to cool completely. Remove mint before using. You can do this ahead of time and store it in the fridge! blueberry mint puree In a mini food processor or blender, combine blueberries and mint simple syrup until pureed. #mintjulep #blueberrymintjulep #bourbon #kentuckyderby #mintjulepoftheday

A post shared by Salisbury Gift & Garden (@salisburygiftandgarden) on May 1, 2016 at 3:41pm PDT

Skinny Bikini
Another low calorie option for those still waiting to go on holiday is the skinny bikini. Infused with tropical flavours the great taste will have customers returning for more even after their vacation.

Ok it's called a skinny bikini, and contains cranberry and coconut vodka…. Have I been out of the loop for awhile, I didn't know about coconut vodka!!! But I'd like some!!! Loving the glass too!!! #summerlovin #summercocktails #skinnybikini #cranberry #coconutvodka #cooldrinkingglass

A post shared by Treasured Memories By Carla (@life_lockets_by_carla) on Sep 18, 2014 at 4:32am PDT

Smashed Raspberry Lemonade Cocktail
Why have ordinary lemonade when you can have this raspberry flavoured cocktail instead? The fun flavours and colours make an easy upsell with the option to offer a non-alcoholic option.

#smashedraspberrylemonade

A post shared by @_feliciaaa21 on Feb 28, 2014 at 6:37pm PST