For many years the bartender profession had been associated with words like ‘charming’, ‘pretentious’, ‘know it all, ‘ego driven’ and the list goes on… Some of these have obviously changed but the fact that a bartender can tell a lot about the person by their choice of a drink still holds some truth.

This ‘might’ not be a piece based on science or a guidance manual for picking a partner at a bar but a collection of fun observations. We asked an outstanding mixologist and a professional Bar and Restaurant consultant Jean Vital for his insights and here is the list.

Let us know if you can relate to any?

Negroni – Adventurous

One of the best-kept secrets.
It needs some practice for the non-bar people to enjoy but it is always a win.

Gin Martini – Pretentious

This is a scam. If you enjoy this type of drink you should start to book an appointment with AA. One of the most overrated drinks in London and is all about marketing. Cheap spirit drank straight and sold for a fortune. I got no respect for people who order those.

Vodka Martini – Also Pretentious
Not much can be added. Same as above.

Old Fashioned – Dull

For the people who don’t like the strength of whisk(e)y but the taste and flavour of it. It is a way to learn about the spirit. It can be fantastically made but very easily messed up.

Margarita – Party Animal

Easy going. The tequila quality matters a lot. Margarita is a pass-partout.

Cosmopolitan – Clueless

Cocktail for beginners. It is just a nice one if it is well done.

Aperol Spritz – Chic

The Campari company saviour! Nice and refreshing. Your Sparkling wine choice will make a huge difference if you want to elevate it. This cocktail will still be successful after we will all be gone.


Whisky Sour – Safe

Ordered by people who pretend to like whisky but definitely not.

Overall, it is nearly impossible to draw any direct conclusions about people’s character or traits simply from the choice of their drink. After all, it really depends on the context, place, company, atmosphere and whether it is before or after a meal, or has nothing to do with food at all. This piece is a collection of wit observations and a fun read so do enjoy your cocktails in any shape or form you like, no one will judge you for it (hopefully). Let us know if any other drinks should have made this list!

A huge thank you to Jean for the collaboration! 

-written by Dovile Daugelaite