If you’re the type of person who walks up to a bar and stares blankly at the rows of spirits and wines wondering what might take your fancy, here’s our no-fail guide to ordering the right drink at the bar every time.

The best drinks to order at a bar

Don’t want to waste a single sip on a badly made drink next time you visit a bar. No matter the mixologist’s skills, the range of drinks on hand or the length of the menu, there are some drinks that are always a safe bet at any watering hole.

Whether you’re seated on a chesterfield lounge in a cosy bar in London, standing in a sleek New York bar with a city skyline view, at a rooftop bar overlooking Sydney Harbour, or at a remote pub with a limited selection of drinks, here’s the drinks that are always a good choice.

The negroni

A befitting pre-dinner tipple containing gin, campari and red sweet vermouth, the negroni is a no-fail, simple cocktail that is easy to mix and easier to drink.

The sidecar 

Brandy, triple sec and lemon juice combine in this effortless yet delicious beverage that all bartenders will know how to make, (and can hardly get wrong).

The mojito  

With the help of a bunch of fresh mint, the mojito is always a safe bet. Fresh lime juice, sugar, soda water and white rum mingle to taste like a tropical holiday.

The gin fizz

A splash of gin, lemon juice, a little sugar syrup, sparkling water, ice and a slice of lemon is all that’s needed to create this refreshing sip. Some bars will opt to include eggwhites – so it’s best to specify if you’d like this addition or not.

A bold red wine 

When the mood strikes, a solid drop of red wine, like a cabernet sauvignon or a shiraz, is often one of the safer bets on an unfamiliar wine menu. And, if in doubt, you can request a taste of your choice of wine before you commit to a glass.

If in doubt, ask your friendly bartender to recommend their favourite cocktail on the menu.