When it comes to ordering drinks at a bar or restaurant, the terminology used can sometimes be confusing. One such term that often pops up is “straight up.” So, what exactly does it mean when you order a drink “straight up”? In the world of bartending, “straight up” and “up” are typically used to describe a specific way of preparing and serving a cocktail. Let’s dive deeper into the meaning behind these terms.
Shaken or Stirred, without Ice
When you order a drink “straight up,” it means that the cocktail will be prepared by shaking or stirring it with ice to chill and mix the ingredients. However, unlike a regular served-on-the-rocks drink, a straight up drink is strained into a stemmed glass, such as a martini glass, without any ice. This method ensures a smoother and more concentrated flavor profile, as the drink is not diluted by melting ice.
An Unmixed Liquor: Going “Straight”
In addition to the aforementioned preparation method, the term “straight” on its own is used to describe a different style of ordering a drink. When you order a liquor “straight,” it means that you’re requesting a single, unmixed pour of that specific spirit. This can include whiskey, vodka, tequila, or any other distilled liquor of your choice. Ordering a drink straight allows you to savor the pure flavors of the spirit without any water, ice, or mixers.
Versatility in Ordering
It’s worth noting that the terms “straight up” and “straight” can be used interchangeably depending on the establishment and the context. For instance, you could order a straight up whiskey or a whiskey straight, and both would imply the same thing—a single pour of whiskey without any mixers but served in a stemmed glass after being shaken or stirred with ice.
Popular Drinks Ordered Straight Up
Now that we understand what “straight up” means, let’s explore some popular drinks that are commonly ordered using this term:
1. Martini: An iconic cocktail made with gin or vodka, vermouth, and garnished with an olive or lemon twist.
2. Manhattan: A classic whiskey-based cocktail made with sweet vermouth, bitters, and a cherry garnish.
3. Daiquiri: A refreshing rum-based cocktail made with lime juice and simple syrup, served straight up for a crisp taste.
4. Margarita: A tequila-based drink made with lime juice and triple sec, often served straight up with a salt rim.
5. Cosmopolitan: A vodka-based cocktail combining cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec, often served straight up in a martini glass.
Conclusion
The next time you step up to the bar and want to order a drink “straight up,” you now know exactly what to expect. It signifies a cocktail that is prepared with ice, shaken or stirred, and then strained into a stemmed glass without any ice. If you prefer the pure essence of a spirit, ordering a drink “straight” means you’ll receive a single pour of that liquor without any mixers or dilution. With this knowledge in hand, you can confidently explore the world of cocktail ordering and enjoy your drinks just the way you like them.
