As a bartender, I've seen my fair share of dinner parties. From intimate gatherings to large celebrations, there's nothing quite like the excitement of hosting a dinner party.
As the host, you're responsible for ensuring that your guests have a memorable experience from start to finish. That's why choosing the right cocktail is crucial.
A well-crafted cocktail can set the tone for the evening, whether you're going for a sophisticated vibe or something more laid back.
But with so many cocktails to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select just one. That's why I've put together a list of the best dinner party cocktails.
These cocktails are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a formal dinner party or a casual get-together.
They're easy to make, delicious, and guaranteed to impress your guests. From classic cocktails to modern twists, there's something for everyone on this list.
So, whether you're a seasoned bartender or a novice mixologist, get ready to take your dinner party game to the next level.
With these cocktail recipes in your arsenal, you're sure to host a party that your guests will be talking about for years to come. So let's get mixing!
1. White Wine Margaritas
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to serve at your next dinner party, look no further than the White Wine Margarita. This easy-to-make pitcher cocktail combines the best of both worlds by mixing tequila and white wine. At first, the combination may seem strange, but trust us, it just works.
The White Wine Margarita is a simple yet delicious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a girls' night in or a backyard barbecue. Plus, it's easy to make a large batch at once, so you can serve a crowd without spending all night behind the bar. If you're a fan of margaritas and wine, then you definitely need to give the White Wine Margarita a try.
2. Winter Moscato Punch
Winter Moscato Punch is a must-try cocktail for your next dinner party. This easy-to-make sangria is perfect for holiday gatherings and is sure to impress your guests. Made with a bottle of moscato wine and a few simple ingredients, this cocktail is both flavorful and refreshing.
The winter garnishes add a festive touch to the drink, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. Whether you're serving it with appetizers or your holiday meal, this cocktail is sure to be a hit. Be sure to add it to your list of must-try cocktails for your next dinner party!
3. Clover Club Cocktail
The Clover Club Cocktail is a classic cocktail that is sure to impress your dinner party guests. This sweet and tart concoction is made with gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and a foamy egg white. It's perfectly balanced and not too boozy, making it a great choice for any occasion.
The egg white gives the cocktail a lovely mouthfeel, and it's surprisingly food-friendly, making it a great choice for a pre or post-dinner drink. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves beautiful drinks with a short ingredient list.
4. Cosmo
The Cosmo is a classic cocktail that is perfect for a dinner party. It's a refreshing mix of sweet, sour, and tart flavors, made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
The tartness of the cranberry juice is balanced by the sweetness of the triple sec and the sourness of the lime juice, creating a unique and satisfying drink. It's easy to make and can be served to a crowd, making it a great choice for any occasion. Give the Cosmo a try and impress your guests with this classic cocktail!
5. Strawberry Wine Punch
If you are looking for an easy and crowd-pleasing cocktail for your next dinner party, then Strawberry Wine Punch is the perfect choice for you. This refreshing cocktail is a blend of strawberry daiquiri and wine, making it a delicious and fruity drink that everyone will love. It is also incredibly easy to make in a large batch, so you can spend more time enjoying the party and less time mixing drinks.
This cocktail has been featured on Country Living and Cosmo, and for good reason. It is perfect for any occasion, from Valentine's Day to July 4th celebrations. So, why not give this Strawberry Wine Punch a try at your next dinner party and impress your guests with this delicious and refreshing cocktail?
6. Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a classic and elegant drink that has been around since the 1930s. Made with vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a splash of cranberry juice, it is a perfect cocktail for a ladies night or a fancy dinner party.
The quality of the ingredients is key to making a great Cosmo, so it is recommended to use top shelf vodka like Grey Goose or Belvediere and a high-quality orange liqueur like Cointreau. The cocktail is best served in a chilled martini glass with a lemon twist garnish. If you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail to impress your guests, the Cosmopolitan is a great choice.
7. Peach & Thyme Spritz
The Peach & Thyme Spritz is a refreshing and fruity vodka cocktail that is perfect for a summer dinner party. The cocktail features a homemade peach and thyme simple syrup that infuses the drink with the delicious taste of fresh peaches. The addition of honey and thyme adds a subtle complexity to the cocktail that makes it anything but ordinary.
This easy-to-make pitcher-style cocktail is perfect for hosting a large group of guests as it allows them to serve themselves while still enjoying a customized drink. The Peach & Thyme Spritz is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to serve at their next dinner party.
8. White Wine Spritzer With Lemon, Rosemary & Ginger
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for your next dinner party? Look no further than the White Wine Spritzer with Lemon, Rosemary & Ginger. This light and fresh cocktail is perfect for summertime entertaining and is sure to impress your guests. The combination of white wine, soda water, lemon, rosemary, and ginger creates a tangy and hydrating drink that is not too sweet.
The recipe is easy to adapt to individual tastes and serving sizes, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you're sipping on this spritzer on a hot day or enjoying it with friends at a dinner party, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and add it to your list of go-to cocktail recipes?
9. Tom Collins
Tom Collins is a classic gin cocktail that is perfect for any dinner party. This refreshing drink is made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda. It's easy to make and always a hit with guests. The name "Tom Collins" comes from a popular practical joke from the late 1800s.
The cocktail is named after the joke and has been a favorite ever since. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer night or for entertaining guests. If you're looking for a quick and easy cocktail that is light and refreshing, then the Tom Collins is the perfect choice.
10. The Perfect Cosmo
If you're looking for a fun and fruity cocktail to serve at your next dinner party, look no further than "The Perfect Cosmo." This classic drink is a delicious blend of tart cranberries, sour limes, and sweet citrus vodka, with just a hint of Cointreau for added complexity.
The playful pink color makes it a great choice for any celebration, from brunch to bridal showers. While it may seem complicated, the recipe is actually quite simple, with just four quality ingredients. So why not shake up a batch of "The Perfect Cosmo" and impress your guests with your bartending skills?
11. Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a delicious post-dinner cocktail for coffee lovers. Made with just four ingredients, it's shaken until frothy with a beautiful foam top.
The combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup creates a sweet and creamy cocktail. The espresso beans on top represent health, wealth, and happiness. It's a must-try cocktail that is sure to impress your guests at your next dinner party.
12. French 75
The French 75 is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any dinner party. This refreshing and chic cocktail is made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne. It is both citrusy and invigorating, making it a crowd-pleaser. The combination of gin and champagne gives it a fancy touch, while the lemon and simple syrup add a sweet and sour flavor.
It is easy to make and can be served in champagne flutes with a lemon twist garnish. This cocktail is not only delicious but also won't break the bank. It is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests with a sophisticated and refreshing drink.
13. Elderflower Martini
The Elderflower Martini is a must-try cocktail that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This light and refreshing drink is a perfect balance of flavors, not too sweet and not too tart. The combination of gin, vodka, and elderflower liqueur creates a unique and delightful taste that is sure to impress your guests at any dinner party.
The addition of homemade sweet & sour mix and a squeeze of lime juice adds a tangy twist to this classic cocktail. Whether you are a fan of elderflower or not, this cocktail is a must-have on your list of drinks to try. So, why not surprise your guests with this delicious and refreshing Elderflower Martini at your next dinner party?
14. Strawberry Margarita Punch
Looking for a fun and festive cocktail to serve at your next dinner party? Look no further than the Sparkling Strawberry Margarita Punch. This delicious and easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from New Year's Eve to Cinco de Mayo.
Made with fresh strawberries, lime juice, tequila, and champagne, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. And if you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, simply skip the tequila and champagne and use club soda or sparkling cider instead. So why not add a little sparkle to your next dinner party with this delicious cocktail?
15. Tropical Rum Punch
Looking for a cocktail that will transport you to a tropical beach? Look no further than the "Tropical Rum Punch." This delicious summer cocktail recipe is perfect for any party or poolside sip. With a mix of cranberry juice, orange juice, peach schnapps, and coconut rum, layered with oranges, pineapples, limes, and strawberries, this drink is a showstopper.
The layers of sunset colors make it not only delicious but also visually stunning. Plus, you can leave out the alcohol for a kid-friendly version. Pair it with cute party supplies such as bamboo straws and hibiscus flowers for a Luau party. Trust us, this rum punch recipe is worth the effort and will be a hit at any dinner party.
16. Pomegranate Ginger Paloma
The Pomegranate Ginger Paloma is a perfect cocktail for any holiday party. It is a fizzy, minty, and gingery drink with a sweet pomegranate flavor and a touch of tequila. The cocktail is made with a simple syrup that can be easily doubled or tripled for a large batch of drinks.
The special Christmas touch to this cocktail is the ginger beer, which adds a killer ginger flavor that screams the holidays. The Pomegranate Ginger Paloma is a unique twist on the classic Paloma and is sure to impress your guests. It is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking to add some festive, fun, and boozy drinks to their dinner party.
17. Lemon Shandy
Lemon Shandy is a simple yet refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any summer party. Made with your favorite beer and lemonade, this cocktail is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet and sour flavors makes it a perfect drink to enjoy on a hot summer day.
You can even switch up the recipe by substituting ginger beer or ginger ale for the lemonade, or by making an Apple Cider Shandy for fall parties. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or a casual get-together with friends, Lemon Shandy is a must-try cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
18. Vodka Spritzer
The Vodka Spritzer is a simple and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any dinner party. With only three ingredients, this drink is easy to make and even easier to drink. It's a great option for those who want a light and refreshing cocktail that won't overpower the flavors of their meal. This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the pool or as the signature drink at your next party.
The best part? You can easily mix up a large batch and let your guests serve themselves. If you're a fan of fruity cocktails, there are endless ways to customize this classic drink. So why not give the Vodka Spritzer a try at your next dinner party and see for yourself why it's a crowd-pleaser?
19. Vesper Cocktail
The Vesper Cocktail is a classic drink invented by James Bond in Casino Royale. It's a unique twist on the traditional vodka martini, with a dominant gin flavor.
The Lillet Blanc gives it a fruity note, and Tanqueray #10 or Plymouth are great substitutes for the gin. Overall, the Vesper Cocktail is a great addition to any dinner party, and its unique history and flavor are sure to impress your guests.
20. Muddled Strawberry Basil Cocktail
The Muddled Strawberry Basil Cocktail is a refreshing and perfect cocktail for summer evenings spent outdoors. It's a paleo-friendly cocktail recipe that uses fresh strawberries, basil, lime, and vodka. The drink is sweetened with honey, which brings out the strawberry flavors.
The combination of strawberry and basil is a match made in heaven and gives the cocktail a unique and delightful taste. The recipe is easy to follow, and you can adjust the honey to your liking. If you're looking for a healthy and delicious cocktail recipe for your dinner party, the Muddled Strawberry Basil Cocktail is a must-try.
21. Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail
Looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve at your next dinner party? Look no further than the Fig Thyme Shrub Cocktail. This cocktail is the perfect mix of tangy and sweet, with a surprising note of herby flavor from the fresh thyme. The shrub mixture, made from sugar, vinegar, and figs, creates a deliciously tangy and addictive "drinking vinegar" that can be used in a variety of beverages.
This vodka-based cocktail is easy to make and keeps well in the fridge for a couple of weeks, making it the perfect option for any host looking to have cocktails at-the-ready. If you're a fan of vinegary, tangy flavors, you'll love this unexpected and refreshing cocktail.
22. Winter Wonderland Cocktail
The Winter Wonderland Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy and flavorful cocktails. With its snowy appearance and mouth-watering taste, this martini variation is perfect for any winter-themed party or cozy night by the fire. Made with white chocolate liqueur, vanilla vodka, creme de cacao, and light cream, this cocktail is a potent sipper that will leave you wanting more.
One of the best things about this cocktail is that it can be made in a big batch, making it perfect for hosting a party. If you're looking for a delicious and festive cocktail to impress your guests, the Winter Wonderland Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
23. Classic Singapore Sling
The Classic Singapore Sling is a cocktail that is perfect for those who love fruity and refreshing drinks. This gin-based cocktail has a complex flavor that is sweet, tart, bitter, fruity, and bubbly all at once. With an impressive list of 8 ingredients, including cherry liqueur, Benedictine, grenadine, and Cointreau, this cocktail is not for the faint of heart.
It was invented in Singapore around 1915 and has since become a classic cocktail that is sure to impress your dinner party guests. While it may be a challenge to make, the end result is a stunning drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
24. Encanto Cocktail
The Encanto Cocktail is a charming and magical gin martini inspired by the popular Disney movie of the same name. This shimmering cocktail is perfect for any celebration and is made with white rum and Empress Gin, which gives it a beautiful violet color.
The lilac hue comes from Butterfly pea blossom, making it a unique and delicious drink. The cocktail is topped with a glittery rim made with clear honey and pink sanding sugar, adding an extra touch of charm. Overall, the Encanto Cocktail is a delightful and easy-to-make drink that is sure to impress your guests at any dinner party.
25. Cranberry Gin Cocktail
The Cranberry Gin Cocktail is a delicious and festive drink that is perfect for any dinner party. Made with cranberry juice, gin, and a splash of triple sec, this cocktail is a twist on the classic Vodka Cranberry with Lime. The addition of gin gives the drink a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberry juice.
The orange-flavored triple sec adds a subtle sweetness, while the ginger ale gives the drink a refreshing fizz. The garnish of orange slice and fresh cranberries adds a festive touch to the cocktail, making it perfect for any holiday gathering. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to serve at your next dinner party, the Cranberry Gin Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
26. Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz
The Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz is a perfect cocktail recipe for those who love a refreshing drink with a touch of sweetness. This cocktail features a homemade pear and vanilla simple syrup combined with gin and soda water, creating a perfectly balanced flavor that is both gorgeous and delicious.
The cocktail is garnished with a very thinly sliced pear slice and a vanilla sugar rim, adding an extra level of pizazz to the drink. The recipe is vegan-friendly and can be made ahead of time for a party. Overall, the Pear Vanilla Gin Fizz is a must-try cocktail that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
27. The Pink Squirrel
Looking for a unique and indulgent after-dinner drink for your next dinner party? Look no further than The Pink Squirrel! This retro cocktail is a candy-colored delight made with crème de noyaux liqueur, giving it a delicate pink hue and almond essence.
It's a bit of a specialty splurge, but one sip will transport you to nostalgia and melted ice cream. The Pink Squirrel is a great choice for Valentine's Day or any occasion where you want to serve a pink drink. Don't miss out on this classic cocktail!
28. Gin Fizz
The Gin Fizz is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. This refreshing drink is made with gin, fresh lemon juice, and sugar syrup, all topped off with soda water. The addition of egg whites gives it a frothy top and a smooth mouthfeel.
The Gin Fizz is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a fancy dinner party or a casual get-together with friends. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress your guests. So why not mix up a batch of Gin Fizzes for your next dinner party and let your guests enjoy this timeless classic?
29. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Originating in Wisconsin, this cocktail has become a staple in bars across the country. Made with either brandy or bourbon, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a strong and flavorful drink.
The addition of soda is optional, but it adds a refreshing touch to the drink. Garnished with an orange wedge and a cherry, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing. If you're a fan of whiskey cocktails, the Old Fashioned is a must-try. Its simplicity and timeless appeal make it a great addition to any dinner party.
30. Pomegranate Mimosa
If you're looking to add some sparkle to your dinner party, a Pomegranate Mimosa might be just what you need. This festive cocktail is perfect for the holiday season, with its beautiful, bubbly appearance and delicious taste.
Made with dry sparkling wine and in-season pomegranates, it's a refreshing alternative to the classic orange juice mimosa. Plus, it's easy to make and won't break the bank, with affordable options for sparkling wine. So, if you're looking for a fun and festive cocktail to impress your guests, give the Pomegranate Mimosa a try.
31. Mojito
The Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail that has gained worldwide popularity for its refreshing taste and easy-to-make recipe. It's a perfect drink for a dinner party, as it's light and refreshing, and can be made in large batches for a crowd. The combination of fresh mint, lime juice, white rum, and club soda creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
The Mojito is a versatile cocktail that can be made with variations like adding fruits or using different types of rum. It's a perfect drink for a summer party or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail.
32. Blueberry Gin Fizz
The Blueberry Gin Fizz is a perfect cocktail for a fancy dinner party. Made with homemade blueberry syrup, this cocktail is both delicious and visually stunning, with its dark and intense color. The recipe is simple and easy to make, with only four ingredients needed for the syrup.
The leftover blueberry chunks can be used to make a Zero-Waste-Jam, making this cocktail recipe not only delicious but also sustainable. If you're looking to impress your guests with a unique and creative cocktail, the Blueberry Gin Fizz is definitely worth a try.
33. Paloma Cocktail
The Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for any dinner party. This grapefruit-flavored tequila cocktail is a great low-calorie alternative to margaritas. With only 175 calories per serving, it is a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious cocktail.
The drink can be made with grapefruit soda, grapefruit sparkling water, or even a Mexican soda called Jarritos for a more authentic flavor. The Paloma Cocktail is a great choice for those who want a simple yet tasty drink that pairs well with tacos or any other dinner party dish. With its sweet and refreshing taste, the Paloma Cocktail is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.
34. Vodka Sour
The Vodka Sour is a classic cocktail that is perfect for easy sipping at a dinner party. Made with a simple formula of vodka, lemon or lime juice, and a sweetener, this cocktail is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste. It's a blank canvas that can be transformed into a sophisticated drink like the Cosmopolitan or a thirst-quenching drink like the Moscow Mule.
The Cherry Vodka Sour is a popular variation of the classic Vodka Sour, which adds grenadine to the mix. With its clean, neutral flavor, vodka is a go-to liquor for any cocktail enthusiast. Whether you're a fan of sour drinks or looking for a refreshing cocktail to serve at your next dinner party, the Vodka Sour is definitely worth trying.
35. Blackberry Gin Cocktail
The Blackberry Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and fruity drink that combines sweetened blackberries, gin, and prosecco. The addition of a sprig of thyme adds an herbaceous note that balances out the sweetness of the blackberries.
It's easy to make and can be made with or without alcohol. This cocktail is perfect for any dinner party and is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing drink.
36. Italian Paloma
The Italian Paloma is a refreshing twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. Made with tequila, grapefruit, orange, lemon juice, and Campari, this zingy cocktail has a beautiful pink color and a bitter-sweet taste. The addition of Campari gives it an Italian flare and works wonderfully with the other bitter flavors in the drink.
This cocktail is perfect for spring and summer parties and comes in under 200 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, the Italian Paloma is definitely worth a try!
