Last Updated on March 29, 2024 by Lydia Martin
I frequently go to a bar if I want to destress or socialize with people. If you’re down for some wild night out with friends, shots can deliver the perfect blend of flavor, excitement, and explosion of fun. Keep reading and take notes on the best popular shots to order at a bar on your next visit.
Learn more about Best Shots to Order at a Bar at Liquor Laboratory.
Top 15 Popular Shots To Order At A Bar
1. Bazooka Joe
This layered shot combines Bailey’s Irish cream, crème de banana liqueur, and blue curacao.
These drinking shots taste like bazooka bubble gum you grew up chewing but with a hint of a banana. Despite the bluish color of this drink, it still resembles the sweet pink gum you loved.
“Always do sober what you said you’d do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut.”
-Ernest Hemingway, Novelist
2. Peanut Butter & Jelly
The Peanut Butter and Jelly Shot is tasty, like the classic PB&J. Combine black raspberry liqueur, peanut butter whiskey or Irish cream, and optional raspberries.
It takes seconds to prepare but tastes incredible. It will give you the nostalgic feeling of your beloved childhood treat.
3. Pineapple Upside Down
This Pineapple Upside Down cake is a vodka-based shot that I frequently order at the bar.
Add the grenadine to a shot glass in making a Pineapple upside-down cake vodka shots. Mix vodka with the pineapple juice and ice. Gradually layer the pineapple juice and vodka over the grenadine to create the two-tone outcome.
4. Root Beer Barrel
Another liquor shots to order is the Root Beer Barrel, a signature shot that has two ingredients only: Root beer schnapps and beer. Mix the ingredients and pour them into shot glasses. Down in one gulp. As easy as that.
Some people add Bailey’s Irish cream or Jameson Irish whiskey, whipped cream, and turn it into a root beer float shot.
5. Tennessee Log Jumper
The Tennessee Log Jumper is a good shot that isn’t as complicated as its name.
You can have this sweet shot with four ingredients: 99 bananas liqueur, Island Blue Pucker liqueur, Red Bull, and pineapple sap to balance the strong flavor of the liquors.
This great shot, presented on highball glass, is named after the caffeine and sugary rush it carries.
6. Tootsie Roll Shot
My favorite childhood chocolate, Tootsie Roll, is one of those loved shooters. The tootsie roll shot is undeniably delicious because of caramel flavors, orange juice, coffee, and chocolate liqueur.
The recipes vary quite a bit depending on your preferences.
7. Water Moccasin
Water Moccasin is a fun shot drink named after a snake, and yes, it got a bite.
In making this shooter, you need whiskey or Irish cream, peach schnapps, lime juice or lemon juice, simple syrup, and triple sec.
This drink has a sweet-and-sour mix balance, and you’ll find it relatively easy to make. Combining peach schnapps gives out a fruitier flavor in the taste buds. Best with pretzels!
8. Cherry Cheesecake
These indulging Cherry Cheesecake shots are mysteriously similar to the dessert cherry cheesecake itself.
Often presented on manhattan cocktail glass, this drink is made from vanilla, cherry vodka, grenadine, cranberry juice, or pineapple juice.
I usually ask the bartender to add a butterscotch liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, and more cranberry juice because I have a sweet tooth.
Find some easy shots for bartenders in this list.
9. Chuck Norris
One of the famous shots is the Chuck Norris shot. Combining vodka or rum with a liquid ice energy drink and hot sauce (only if you like) makes it refreshing but with a nice kick.
You can top off more alcohol bases like Absinthe and hot sauce to make it more exciting. It’s perfect to drink with a hybrid cocktail glass.
10. Jägerbomb
Jägerbomb shot consists of two distinct flavor ingredients- Jägermeister shot and Red Bull energy drink.
The ‘Bomb’ is made by dropping a shot glass of Jägermeister in a larger glass half-filled with Red Bull.
But be careful to drop the shot glass not too high because it could break the half-filled glass. But is Jagermeister whiskey?
11. Kamikaze
The most iconic vodka shot is the Kamikaze shooter. The Kamikaze drink is made of vodka, triple sec, and lime or orange liqueur for the orange flavor.
Some people add some peach schnapps for other variations. Some people like to use sweetened lime juice, lemon juice, or lemon drop to balance the tanginess.
Make sure to shake it with ice and strain to remove any ice. Take a sip of the lime wedge after a double shot. You can also try Paloma Mix as a replacement.
12. Liquid Cocaine
Liquid cocaine shots have an addictive taste buds impression. But don’t get us wrong, it doesn’t have cocaine.
Some people said this shot’s supremacy is similar to cocaine based on the effects.
The shot consists of Jägermeister, peppermint schnapps, cinnamon schnapps, and overproof rum. [1]
This bitter yet delicious shot is a crowd-pleaser that will make you yearn for more.
13. Mad Dog
This Mad Dog shot can be mad by name, but you will be thrilled when you try it. With raspberry syrup, vodka, and Tabasco, this drink can be a shot of startling twists.
The sweetness of the raspberry syrup balances the sting of vodka.
The Tobasco heat notes prevent the raspberry from being too sugary. If you don’t like Tabasco, you can leave it as an option.
Read: White Gummy Bear Shot Guide
14. Melon Ball
A melon ball is a no-hassle vodka shooter. And it can be one of the tastiest shots because of its fruity flavor.
The shot is made of a tropical melon fruit flavor, vodka, Melon liqueur, and orange or pineapple fruit juice. But how can you take a shot without tasting it?
15. Mind Eraser
The mind-eraser shot is a coffee-flavored cocktail. This shot has three simple ingredients: coffee liqueur or Kahlúa, vodka, club soda, or lemon-lime soda.
“Have fun drinking shots, but drink responsibly”
-Liquor Laboratory
It’s not a literal mind eraser when you drink it. On the contrary, it has a unique intensifying bite that you will remember.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the most popular shots?
When it comes to popular shots, the choices are diverse, reflecting the varied tastes and preferences of patrons at bars and clubs around the world. These shots often combine distinctive flavors and are typically served in small glasses, making them easy to consume quickly. Some of the most sought-after shots include:
Tequila Shot: A quintessential favorite, the tequila shot is often enjoyed with a wedge of lime and a salt rim. The sharpness of the tequila combined with the citrusy tang of the lime and the salt provides a classic and invigorating experience.
Jägerbomb: This dynamic shot involves dropping a shot of Jägermeister into a glass of energy drink, such as Red Bull. It’s favored for its unique combination of herbal and sweet flavors, along with the added boost of caffeine.
Kamikaze: Made with equal parts vodka, triple sec, and lime juice, the Kamikaze shot delivers a zesty and refreshing burst of flavor. Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it a popular choice for those seeking a quick and enjoyable shot.
B-52: This visually stunning shot features layers of Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier, creating a striking visual effect. Each layer contributes its distinct flavor, resulting in a harmonious and indulgent taste experience.
Lemon Drop Shot: Combining vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup, the Lemon Drop shot offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. It’s often served with a sugar-coated lemon wedge to enhance its citrusy flavor profile.
Washington Apple: With its blend of Crown Royal whisky, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice, the Washington Apple shot is celebrated for its crisp and fruity taste. It’s a popular choice among those who enjoy a balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Irish Car Bomb: This unconventional shot involves dropping a shot glass filled with Irish whiskey and Irish cream liqueur into a half-pint of Guinness beer. It’s renowned for its rich and creamy texture, along with its robust and complex flavor profile.
What drinks are best for shots?
Choosing the right drinks for shots largely depends on personal preference and the desired flavor profile. However, certain types of spirits and mixers are well-suited for creating enjoyable shot experiences:
Clear Spirits: Vodka, tequila, and gin are popular choices for shots due to their versatility and relatively neutral flavor profiles. They can be enjoyed straight or combined with mixers to create flavored shots.
Liqueurs: Flavored liqueurs such as Jägermeister, Rumple Minze, and schnapps add depth and complexity to shots. They come in a wide range of flavors, from fruity and sweet to herbal and spicy.
Citrus Juices: Lemon or lime juice can add a refreshing tartness to shots, balancing out the sweetness of liqueurs or the heat of spirits. They’re often used to create zesty and invigorating shot combinations.
Energy Drinks: Mixing shots with energy drinks like Red Bull can provide an added boost of caffeine and sweetness, making them popular choices for those looking for an extra kick.
Fruit Juices: Some shots incorporate fruit juices such as cranberry or orange juice for a naturally sweet and vibrant flavor. These juices can complement the other ingredients in the shot, adding depth and complexity to the taste profile.
What are standard shots at a bar?
When it comes to standard shots at a bar, there’s a wide array of options to suit every taste and preference. These shots are often enjoyed by patrons looking for a quick and convenient way to savor their favorite spirits. Here are some additional details about the standard shots commonly found at bars:
Rum Shot: Rum shots come in various forms, including white, dark, and spiced rum. Each type offers a unique flavor profile, ranging from the light and crisp taste of white rum to the rich and complex notes of dark rum. Spiced rum shots, infused with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, provide an extra layer of warmth and depth. Rum shots can be enjoyed neat, allowing the distinct flavors of the spirit to shine, or with a splash of cola for a classic and refreshing combination.
Tequila Shot: Tequila shots are a popular choice among patrons looking for a lively and spirited drinking experience. Typically served with a wedge of lime and a salt rim, tequila shots offer a dynamic flavor profile that balances the sharpness of the tequila with the tangy citrus of the lime and the savory bite of the salt. For an added element of excitement, some bars offer “Tequila Slammer” shots, where the tequila is slammed down on the table to release carbonation before being swiftly consumed. Tequila shots are known for their festive and celebratory nature, making them a staple at bars and social gatherings.
Gin Shot: Gin shots appeal to those who appreciate the botanical complexity and herbal notes of this versatile spirit. Whether enjoyed straight or with a splash of tonic water, gin shots offer a refreshing and invigorating drinking experience. The juniper-forward flavor of gin is complemented by a variety of botanicals, such as coriander, citrus peel, and angelica root, creating a harmonious and aromatic taste profile. Gin shots are often served chilled, allowing the crisp and clean flavors of the spirit to shine through.
These standard shots provide a snapshot of the diverse range of spirits available at bars, allowing patrons to explore and enjoy a variety of flavors and drinking experiences. Whether sipping on a classic rum shot or savoring the bold flavors of tequila, these standard shots are sure to delight and satisfy even the most discerning drinkers.
What is the most ordered bar drink?
The most ordered bar drink varies depending on personal preference, cultural trends, and the type of establishment. However, some drinks consistently rank among the most popular worldwide.
One of the perennial favorites is the classic Martini, typically made with gin and vermouth, though vodka martinis have gained significant popularity as well. Another beloved choice is the Margarita, a refreshing blend of tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, often served with a salt rim.
For those who prefer something simpler, the humble beer remains a top choice, with various types and styles catering to different tastes. Additionally, cocktails like the Mojito, Old Fashioned, and Cosmopolitan consistently rank high in popularity.
What are common shots?
Shots, or shooters, are small servings of spirits or mixed drinks meant to be consumed quickly in a single gulp. There’s a wide variety of common shots enjoyed by patrons at bars and parties worldwide. Some popular options include:
Tequila Shot: A classic choice, often served with salt and a lime wedge. Tequila shots can be enjoyed straight or with a flavored variation.
Vodka Shot: Vodka is versatile and can be enjoyed straight, chilled, or with various flavored additions like fruit or spices.
Whiskey Shot: Whether it’s bourbon, scotch, or Irish whiskey, this spirit is commonly enjoyed as a shot due to its robust flavor profile.
Jägerbomb: A high-energy shot made by dropping a shot glass of Jägermeister into a glass of energy drink. It’s known for its stimulating effect.
Kamikaze: This shot combines vodka, triple sec, and lime juice, offering a tangy and potent taste.
B-52: Layered shots are visually striking, and the B-52 is a popular example, comprising Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier.
Slippery Nipple: A creamy and sweet shot made with Baileys Irish Cream and Sambuca, often topped with a cherry.
These are just a few examples, but the world of shots is vast and diverse, with options to suit every palate and occasion.
What is a good first shot?
For someone trying a shot for the first time, it’s essential to choose something that’s not overly strong or intense in flavor. A good first shot should be approachable, easy to drink, and perhaps even a bit fun. Here are a few recommendations:
Lemon Drop: This shot combines vodka, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, often with a sugared rim. It’s refreshing and not too strong, making it a popular choice for beginners.
Apple Pie Shot: A flavorful and sweet option made with equal parts apple cider and cinnamon whiskey, often served with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Fireball: While it has a bit more kick than some other options, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky is popular among those new to shots due to its sweet and spicy flavor reminiscent of cinnamon candy.
Kamikaze: As mentioned earlier, the Kamikaze is a balanced and tangy shot that goes down smoothly, making it a good choice for beginners.
Chocolate Cake: This shot tastes remarkably like its namesake dessert, typically made with vodka, hazelnut liqueur, and a sugared lemon wedge. It’s sweet and indulgent, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Ultimately, the best first shot depends on individual taste preferences, so it’s worth exploring different options to find what suits you best. Additionally, it’s essential to drink responsibly and be aware of one’s alcohol tolerance.
Final Verdict: Best Shots to Order at a Bar
The popular shot drinks we listed will persuade you to go and visit your favorite bar. But the fun doesn’t stop there. You can also have one in your home either by using a cocktail set or ready-to-drink cocktails. You don’t even need a special occasion.
You can mix and match the flavor of your choice. And believe us, you won’t regret it if you try one.
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