The best cocktails for gaming

One of the best things about entertainment and leisure is that when combined, they enhance one another. Just like going to the movies is best enjoyed alongside a big bag of popcorn, playing games — whether that’s at the casino or from the comforts of home, goes well with a cocktail.

In this article, we showcase some of the latest and greatest cocktails that go along with gaming. From the classics to those that are the most on trend for 2024. Read on to find out more.

The Martini

James Bond has been known to frequent casinos from time to time, and he’s also a fan of the martini (shaken, not stirred). The traditional martini combines gin and vermouth with lemon or olive, but these days many opt for a vodka option instead.

Enjoyed in a sleek, tall stemmed glass, this cocktail is a firm favourite of people around the world, and goes well with some of the more classic casino games like roulette or blackjack. It’s a particularly strong drink, so if you’re not a fan of alcohol it might be best to stay clear!

A Margarita

Bring the taste of Mexico to your gaming experience! Margarita’s combine the sweet, salty and sour flavours of lime, tequila and triple sec for a drink that truly excites the taste buds.

Margarita’s are ideal if you’re hosting a casino night at your house as they make for a delicious drink to serve and are definitely a crowd pleaser. Or try pairing them with a game of bingo slots for even more fun while playing.

Espresso Martinis

This caffeine-fuelled twist on the martini has also become a firm favourite. Perfect for coffee lovers, it combines vodka with espresso, coffee liquor, espresso and sugar syrup. These drinks go well after dinner, but also work as a pick me up for a long gaming session. And unlike the classic martini, the sweetness balances out the sharpness of the alcohol flavour, making them a great option to serve at parties.

Negroni

Negronis have bursted in popularity over the past few years and for good reason. With equal parts sweet vermouth, gin and Campari, this slightly sour, botanical Italian cocktail feels sophisticated and tastes great too.

For a hot summer’s day playing poker, try the Negroni Sbagliato — which takes the Negroni recipe and tops it with prosecco!

Moscow Mule

Another cocktail that’s become on trend over the past few years is the Moscow Mule. Always served in a copper mug, this refreshing drink combines spicy ginger beer with vodka and lime juice. It makes a good option for social gatherings and more casual events, and is a great option if you’re hosting a games night at your home.

Plus it’s easy to make, so you don’t have to worry about spending too much time in the kitchen when people ask for seconds (and thirds).

Old Fashioned

There are some classic cocktail options that never go out of style, and always make their way to the menu. The Old Fashioned definitely has to be one of them. A combination of whiskey, bitters, sugars and orange zest, served in a lowball glass, this drink just screams sophistication.

Old Fashioneds go perfectly with a variety of games, whether you’re playing cards with friends or sitting around a roulette table. They’re perfect for spinning and the strength means a couple will go a long way. If you’re new to Old Fashioned, it’s worth taste testing some whisky to make sure you enjoy it, as the flavour is quite strong within the drink.

Beer and Wine

While they don’t actually qualify as cocktails, beer and wine make for great options when it comes to gaming. There’s now a huge range of beers to enjoy that suit almost everyone — from strongly-flavoured and high percentage craft beers, to easy-drinking lagers and delicious alcohol free options. It’s always good to have a few varieties on hand, or try a new one if you haven’t yet, with so many inventive breweries out there these days.

Wine also makes for a great drink and is a must-have to have on hand if you’re hosting a games night. Always have a red and white option available, with sauvignon Blanc being a popular choice for white and Merlot an easy-drinking red.