When you walk into a bar and order a drink, have you ever wondered about the ingredients or the kind of liquor used? One of the most common terms you’ll hear at any bar is “rail drink.” But what is a rail drink exactly, and how does it differ from other types of cocktails? In this article, we’ll dive deep into what rail drinks are, how they’re made, and why they’re popular in bars. Whether you’re a bartender learning the ropes or simply someone who enjoys a drink out with friends, understanding rail drinks will enhance your overall experience at the bar.
- What is a Rail Drink?
- Ingredients and Liquor in a Rail Drink
- Why Rail Drinks are Popular
- Budget-Friendly Cocktails and Economical Drink Options
- Bartending Basics for Rail Drinks
- Simple Cocktail Recipes You Can Make with Rail Drinks
- FAQ
What is a Rail Drink?
When you hear the term “rail drink,” you’re essentially referring to a cocktail made with the well or rail liquors at a bar. These liquors are typically the more inexpensive, standard options that a bar keeps on hand for quick, easy mixing. Rail drinks are usually simple, basic cocktails made from these liquors and are often more affordable than cocktails made with premium brands. But what makes rail drinks stand out from other types of cocktails?
Understanding Rail Liquor Selection
In a bar, rail liquors are often placed on a shelf behind the bartender known as the “rail,” hence the name “rail drink.” These liquors include well-known, popular brands that tend to be less expensive than top-shelf or premium liquors. Bartenders often use rail liquors to make cocktails that are quick to prepare and affordable for the customer. Since these liquors are considered the standard or budget-friendly options, they provide an excellent base for a variety of mixed drinks.
The selection of rail liquors can vary depending on the bar, but they typically include well-known brands of vodka, rum, gin, whiskey, and tequila. Each of these liquors can be mixed into several classic cocktails that many patrons enjoy on a night out. While the quality may not match premium brands, rail liquors still offer a satisfying drinking experience for most customers.
The Appeal of Rail Drinks in Bars
Rail drinks are popular in bars because they provide an inexpensive way to create cocktails. They are often the go-to drinks during happy hour or for budget-conscious patrons who still want a fun, enjoyable cocktail. Bars typically use rail liquors to offer basic drinks like gin and tonics, rum and cokes, or whiskey sours. These cocktails are fast to make, which is important in busy bars where efficiency is key to serving customers quickly.
Another reason why rail drinks are favored is that they can be a standard option on the menu, allowing bartenders to focus on serving drinks efficiently. For customers, ordering a rail drink means they are getting a straightforward, inexpensive cocktail without worrying about paying for expensive liquor brands.
Rail Drink Meaning and Different Types
The term “rail drink” can sometimes be confusing, but it essentially refers to any cocktail made with the less expensive liquors placed on the bar’s rail. These drinks can be made with any combination of liquors, mixers, and garnishes, which leads to a wide variety of possibilities. While rail drinks typically consist of classic cocktails such as vodka sodas, rum punches, or gin and tonics, they can also include more inventive concoctions depending on the bartender’s creativity.
Ingredients and Liquor in a Rail Drink
To truly understand rail drinks, it’s important to know the types of liquors used in their creation. As mentioned earlier, rail drinks are made from the more affordable liquors found behind the bar. But what specific ingredients are used to craft these cocktails, and how do they affect the flavor and experience of the drink?
Bar Standard Liquors and Their Role in Rail Drinks
When bartenders refer to bar standard liquors, they are talking about the liquors that are typically found on the “rail” shelf behind the bar. These are the go-to liquors for many basic cocktails and are often the ones used in rail drinks. Some of the most common rail liquors include:
- Vodka
- Rum
- Gin
- Tequila
- Whiskey
These liquors serve as the foundation of many simple cocktails and are often mixed with soda, tonic, fruit juices, or flavored syrups. The choice of liquor used in a rail drink significantly impacts the overall taste, but the key factor in rail drinks is their affordability and ease of use.
Mixers and Extras for Rail Drinks
In addition to the standard liquors, rail drinks also require mixers and other ingredients to complete the cocktail. Some common mixers used in rail drinks include tonic water, cola, lemonade, ginger ale, and cranberry juice. These mixers are essential for balancing the flavors of the liquors and creating a refreshing drink.
Garnishes are another important element in a rail drink. Simple garnishes like lime wedges, lemon slices, or olives add a burst of flavor and visual appeal to the cocktail. These elements can elevate the overall experience of a rail drink without adding significant cost.
Economical Cocktail Mixes
One of the key features of rail drinks is their simplicity. With only a few base liquors and mixers required, these drinks are easy to prepare and budget-friendly. Some examples of popular rail drinks include:
- Rum and Coke
- Whiskey Sour
- Gin and Tonic
- Vodka Cranberry
- Tequila Sunrise
These cocktails are not only affordable but also easy to customize. Bartenders can swap out mixers or adjust proportions to create unique variations while keeping the overall cost low.
Why Rail Drinks are Popular
Rail drinks have become a staple in bars for a variety of reasons. From their affordability to their efficiency in serving large numbers of customers, rail drinks offer both bars and patrons a wide range of benefits. Let’s explore why these drinks remain a popular choice in bars worldwide.
Cost-Effective for Customers
One of the main reasons rail drinks are so popular is that they are often much cheaper than cocktails made with premium liquors. For those who want to enjoy a drink without breaking the bank, a rail drink is an excellent option. Bars typically offer rail drinks at a lower price point, especially during happy hour, making them accessible to a wide audience. For budget-conscious customers, ordering a rail drink ensures they get a satisfying cocktail at a lower cost.
Quick and Easy to Make
Rail drinks are also popular because they are simple and fast to prepare. Bartenders can easily whip up a rail drink with minimal ingredients, allowing them to serve more customers in a shorter amount of time. This efficiency is crucial in busy bars where speed is key. Whether it’s a Friday night crowd or a packed happy hour, rail drinks offer bartenders a quick solution for making cocktails without compromising on taste.
Versatility and Variety
Despite being made with standard liquors, rail drinks are highly versatile. Bartenders can mix and match different ingredients to create a wide range of flavors and styles. From refreshing highballs to sweet and tangy cocktails, rail drinks can be tailored to suit any taste. This variety makes rail drinks a go-to choice for bars looking to offer a broad selection of drinks at an affordable price.
Budget-Friendly Cocktails and Economical Drink Options
One of the biggest draws of rail drinks is that they offer a wide range of budget-friendly cocktail options. Customers can enjoy classic drinks without paying a premium for top-shelf liquors. For those looking to stick to a budget while still having a good time, rail drinks are the perfect choice. Let’s look at how rail drinks offer great value without sacrificing quality.
Affordable Yet Enjoyable Cocktails
While rail drinks are typically made with more economical liquors, they are still enjoyable. Drinks like the Vodka Soda, Rum Punch, and Whiskey Sour are all great examples of affordable cocktails that deliver great taste without the hefty price tag. By using standard liquors and common mixers, these cocktails provide the perfect balance of flavor and affordability.
Happy Hour and Special Offers
Many bars offer happy hour specials featuring rail drinks at a discounted price. This makes it even more affordable for customers to enjoy their favorite cocktails without overspending. Whether you’re out with friends or enjoying a solo drink, happy hour deals on rail drinks ensure you can stretch your budget further while still having a great time.
How Rail Drinks Benefit Bars
For bars, offering rail drinks is a way to serve quality cocktails at an affordable price. Since these drinks are quick and easy to make, bartenders can serve more customers in a short amount of time. This improves the bar’s overall efficiency, especially during busy times like weekends or holidays. Additionally, offering a wide selection of affordable rail drinks helps attract a diverse crowd, from casual drinkers to more adventurous cocktail enthusiasts.
Bartending Basics for Rail Drinks
For those new to bartending or anyone looking to refine their skills, knowing how to make rail drinks is a must. These drinks are fundamental to bar operations, and mastering them can set a bartender up for success. Let’s take a closer look at the basics of bartending with rail drinks.
Simple Techniques for Making Rail Drinks
Making rail drinks is all about simplicity. The most common techniques used for making rail drinks are shaking, stirring, and pouring. Depending on the drink, a bartender may need to shake the ingredients with ice to chill and mix them, or simply stir the ingredients for a smoother texture. Regardless of the method, bartenders must ensure that the drinks are well-mixed and served at the right temperature.
Tips for Serving Rail Drinks Efficiently
Efficiency is key when it comes to rail drinks. To serve customers quickly, bartenders should familiarize themselves with the standard rail drink recipes and have the ingredients ready to go. Using speed rails—smaller versions of the bar rail that hold frequently used liquors—can make it easier for bartenders to access the necessary ingredients in a hurry. Speed is crucial when serving a crowd, so preparation and organization are vital.
Creative Variations of Rail Drinks
Even though rail drinks are often basic, bartenders can get creative with them. By experimenting with different mixers or adding fresh fruits and herbs, bartenders can create unique variations of traditional rail drinks. For instance, adding a splash of ginger beer to a rum and coke can give it a refreshing twist. By thinking outside the box, bartenders can offer customers new and exciting flavors without straying too far from the standard rail drink formula.
Simple Cocktail Recipes You Can Make with Rail Drinks
If you’re looking to try your hand at mixing rail drinks at home or want to know what drinks to order at a bar, here are a few simple recipes you can rely on.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic rail drink that’s both refreshing and tangy. To make it, combine 2 oz of whiskey, 3/4 oz of lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with a cherry or lemon slice. This drink is perfect for anyone who loves a balance of sweet and sour flavors.
Rum and Coke
For a super easy yet satisfying drink, a Rum and Coke is a staple. Simply fill a glass with ice, pour in 2 oz of rum, and top it off with cola. Stir gently, and you’re ready to enjoy. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a simple, no-fuss cocktail.
Gin and Tonic
Another simple and refreshing rail drink is the Gin and Tonic. To make it, fill a glass with ice, add 2 oz of gin, and top it off with tonic water. Stir well, and garnish with a lime wedge. This drink is ideal for those who appreciate crisp, herbal flavors.
When it comes to managing your bar, keeping track of your inventory and drink sales is important. Consider using Biyo POS, a powerful point-of-sale system that can help you streamline operations, track your rail liquors, and optimize your sales for better profitability. Biyo POS simplifies your bar’s operations, ensuring that you can efficiently serve rail drinks and more while keeping everything running smoothly.
FAQ
What is the difference between a rail drink and a top-shelf drink?
A rail drink is made with standard, budget-friendly liquors placed on the bar’s rail shelf, while top-shelf drinks are crafted with premium liquors. Rail drinks are more affordable, while top-shelf drinks typically have a higher price tag due to the quality of the liquor used.
Are rail drinks strong?
Rail drinks can be just as strong as any other cocktail, depending on the ingredients and the bartender’s pouring technique. The alcohol content is determined by the amount of liquor mixed with other ingredients like mixers and garnishes.
Can I make my own rail drinks at home?
Yes, making rail drinks at home is easy! All you need are standard liquors like vodka, rum, or whiskey, and mixers such as cola, tonic, or fruit juices. Simple recipes like a Rum and Coke or Vodka Cranberry are perfect for home bartenders.
Are rail drinks served at happy hour?
Yes, many bars offer rail drinks at a discount during happy hour. This is a great time to enjoy budget-friendly cocktails without breaking the bank.
What are some popular rail drink recipes?
Popular rail drink recipes include the Whiskey Sour, Rum and Coke, Gin and Tonic, and Vodka Cranberry. These are simple, classic drinks that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
