Nothing says ‘Summer’ like a cold, refreshing drink. For those hot days and nights, a well-planned drink menu can set the tone for any summer party. From backyard barbecues to outdoor weddings, some drinks just taste better in the hot months of summer.
When creating a summer drink menu, drink specials, or personalized wedding beverages there are a few points to keep in mind.
The menu should:
- Be small, 3-4 options will do
- Include drink descriptions and/or ingredient lists
- Offer mocktails and cocktails
The drinks should:
- Be light, refreshing, and cold
- Have creative, descriptive names
- Feature local ingredients when possible – particularly in-season produce
- Lower costs by utilizing the same ingredient more than once and eliminate the need for a fully stocked bar
Successful summer drink menus incorporate local goods, in-season flavors, and marketing techniques to form the perfect trifecta of beverage offerings. Limiting drink options to just those that can be made with the summer menu ingredients can help cut down on costs and take pressure of bartenders.
Summer drinks often feature unique combinations of standard ingredients. For obvious reasons, popular flavors include:
- Berries
- Mint
- Lemon
- Cucumber
- Watermelon
- Peach
Typical summer drink alcohols include tequila, vodka, and rum. For non-alcoholic drinks, lemonade, ginger soda, and club soda reign. Take any combination of these flavors and mixers, then add your own unique twist to make your summer menu stand out.
Creating a special summer drink menu is a fast and easy way to jump on the eat local bandwagon. Grab your chef coat or bartender apron, head to the farmer’s market, and get inspired by the colors and flavors of summer!