Looking ahead, shifting consumer preferences and the emerging tastes of younger generations will shape the future of alcohol service. Whether you just started a bar or have been in the business for years, staying on top of shifting consumer preferences helps you remain relevant. In 2025, evolving attitudes toward alcohol consumption and brand practices will shape purchasing behavior and increase demand for new drinking experiences, driving demand for innovative and unique beverage offerings. As a bar owner or operator, you must stay informed about the latest trends to attract and retain customers and stay ahead of the competition. We’ll project the top upcoming bar trends and provide insights on how your business can adopt and incorporate them to enhance your offerings and customer experience.
Unique Flavors
In the dynamic landscape of the bar industry, the quest for innovation and creativity is ever-evolving. Bartenders constantly seek to push the boundaries by experimenting with new and unique flavor combinations. Customers, in turn, eagerly anticipate the opportunity to savor these inventive concoctions. Ingredients like ube can now be found in cocktails thanks to emerging products like ube cream liqueur. The current trend towards umami flavors has also piqued the interest of patrons, with bartenders incorporating ingredients like miso, soy sauce, and mushrooms to create savory drinks. In line with the growing interest in tequila and mezcal spirits, beers featuring a hint of lime have emerged as a popular choice.
Fat Washing
In 2025, fat washing will continue gaining momentum, with bartenders across the globe incorporating unique twists to add an extra layer of complexity to their signature drinks. By infusing spirits with fats, bartenders infuse cocktails with a velvety mouthfeel and a rich depth of flavor that sets them apart. As the trend progresses, bartenders are exploring the realm of vegan fat washing, catering to the growing demand for plant-based options. This process offers the same transformative results as traditional techniques, using ingredients sourced from plant-based sources. Among the most popular ingredients for vegan fat washing are sesame oil, coconut oil, and peanut butter.
Gen Z's Influence
As more members of Gen Z reach the legal drinking age and account for a larger percentage of alcohol consumers, their ideas and values will significantly impact the direction of the alcohol industry. Companies offering sustainable and ethically sourced products will see increased popularity, and new and innovative products will hit the market. Expect an increase in desire for local brands, with customers interested in supporting small businesses and their local economy. Now more than ever, offering a diverse selection of drinks and analyzing where your products come from presents a way to set yourself apart from other bars.
Mindful Drinking
Consumers are growing more conscious of their alcohol consumption and are willing to make changes to improve their overall well-being. However, this shift towards mindful drinking does not mean consumers are giving up on the social aspect of going to bars. Many consumers still enjoy the experience of socializing but are seeking alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages. This has led to a rise in demand for adaptogen drinks and low- or non-alcohol spirits in bar establishments. Some companies have even introduced premium canned water, allowing guests to make healthier decisions while still feeling like they are participating in the fun.
Premiumization/Experiential Drinking
As the cost of going out for drinks continues to rise, patrons seek ways to maximize their experience and get the most value for their money. This shift in consumer behavior has led to a rise in demand for cocktails crafted with premium ingredients and enhanced presentation. Bartenders looking to capitalize on this trend should consider experimenting with bold flavor combinations, eye-catching glassware, and innovative techniques that push the boundaries of traditional mixology. Not only do you want your drinks to taste good, but you want them to be interesting enough that your customers will share their experience with others, whether by posting a video on TikTok or sending a picture to their friend group.
Exploring New Brands
While traditional liquor and beer brands will always hold a place in the market, there is a growing openness to trying innovative and emerging brands. Customers are more willing to take a chance on something new, looking for products that offer a refreshing experience at the bar. These new brands are often characterized by their unique offerings, whether it be new styles of drinks, bold flavors, or unique branding. Pay attention to what customers are asking for, what you see other bars serving, and which drinks you see popping up on social media.
Embossed Ice
What sets embossed ice cubes apart is the intricate designs that adorn their surface, adding a touch of sophistication and artistry to your drinks. Whether it's a delicate floral pattern or a bold geometric shape, these designs give your cocktails a premium feel that makes a lasting impression. Crafting embossed ice cubes is easier than you might think. Some bars invest in ice cube stamps, equipped with a heated press that can imprint intricate designs onto the ice cubes in a matter of seconds. Others use an ice cube embosser, where all you need to do is place the ice cubes on the device and it will imprint them with your chosen design. Consider incorporating embossed ice into your signature cocktails or experimenting with new drinks that feature large embossed ice cubes.
Functional Garnishes
In keeping with the theme of making drinking a larger experience for your guests, not only do functional garnishes add to the flair of your drinks, but they are also edible. Functional garnishes like fresh herbs or olives have been used for generations, but now bartenders are expanding to offer new, fresh garnishes that take drinks over the top. By incorporating innovative and diverse functional garnishes into your cocktail menu, you can elevate the overall drinking experience for your customers and set your bar apart in the competitive landscape. Utilize edible flowers in your floral cocktails for an ornate look, meat straws in your bloody marys for a bold, savory touch, or uniquely cut citrus fruits for a playful and creative approach.
As the bar alcohol evolves and consumer preferences shift, you must stay on top of the latest bar trends. Keep a keen eye on the interests of younger generations, bartending techniques that can elevate your drinks, and innovative products being introduced to the industry. By educating yourself on what trends are projected to take off in 2025, you can position yourself for future success.
