Cocktail Trends of 2024: What’s Shaking in NYC Bars

As we head into 2024, New York City’s vibrant cocktail scene continues to evolve with exciting new trends that are transforming the way we drink. From sustainability-focused cocktails to the resurgence of low-ABV beverages, the creativity of bartenders in the city knows no bounds. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these are the cocktail trends you’ll want to keep an eye on when you step into NYC’s finest bars, including venues like Roof at Park South and Sweetbriar.

1. Sustainability Behind the Bar

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s become a standard in many of New York’s top bars. Bartenders are increasingly mindful of reducing waste, reusing ingredients, and creating eco-friendly drinks without sacrificing flavor. For example, citrus peels that would normally be discarded are being repurposed as garnishes or flavor infusions.

At Roof at Park South, you’ll find innovative, sustainable cocktails where bartenders use locally sourced, organic ingredients and focus on minimizing waste​. Similarly, many bars now prioritize reusable metal straws, biodegradable coasters, and even upcycling cocktail ingredients like herbs and fruits.

What to Try: Look for cocktails that highlight local, seasonal ingredients and bars that use creative methods like dehydrated fruit garnishes or compostable cups.

2. The Return of Low-ABV Cocktails

Health-conscious drinking continues to shape the cocktail landscape in 2024. Low-ABV (alcohol by volume) cocktails, which feature spirits like vermouth, sherry, or amari, are a perfect choice for those looking to sip responsibly without sacrificing taste. These drinks allow you to enjoy complex flavors with a lower alcohol content, making them ideal for a longer, more relaxed evening out.

Bars like Sweetbriar are offering drinks that showcase low-ABV ingredients while maintaining flavor and sophistication​. Perfect for a leisurely dinner or casual meet-up, low-ABV cocktails provide all the enjoyment of traditional cocktails without the high-octane buzz.

What to Try: Aperitifs like the Aperol Spritz remain a fan favorite, but look for unique offerings that mix vermouth with fresh juices or light sparkling wine.

3. Spirit-Free Cocktails

As the demand for non-alcoholic beverages grows, many top-tier cocktail bars are responding with spirit-free alternatives that are just as flavorful and complex as their boozy counterparts. Gone are the days of settling for a simple soda or juice—today’s mocktails feature layers of botanical infusions, house-made syrups, and craft mixers that can rival any classic cocktail.

At Roof at Park South, you’ll find a range of carefully crafted non-alcoholic options like the Pick Me Up, a blend of coffee, soda, and herbal amaro​. Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol or simply want to try something new, these spirit-free cocktails are a fantastic choice.

What to Try: Look for mocktails that incorporate herbs, spices, and exotic fruits for a full-bodied drinking experience without the alcohol.

4. Botanical and Herb-Infused Cocktails

Herbal and botanical infusions have become a hallmark of mixology in 2024. With a growing interest in natural ingredients, bartenders are turning to fresh herbs, edible flowers, and botanicals to add depth and aroma to their drinks. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also create stunning presentations that are perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

At Sweetbriar, you might encounter cocktails with fresh basil, lavender, or rosemary, paired with complementary spirits to highlight the flavors of the restaurant’s wood-fired dishes​. The use of botanicals and herbs adds a refreshing twist to traditional cocktails and elevates the overall drinking experience.

What to Try: Keep an eye out for gin-based cocktails that highlight the spirit’s natural botanicals, or drinks that feature herbal infusions like thyme, mint, or elderflower.

5. Global Ingredients and Cultural Fusion

In 2024, NYC bartenders are increasingly embracing global flavors, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures to create cocktails with a worldly twist. Expect to see ingredients like yuzu from Japan, mezcal from Mexico, and spices from the Middle East incorporated into cocktails, bringing a new level of complexity to your drink.

At Roof at Park South, the globally inspired cocktail menu includes drinks like the Smoky Melons, which combines watermelon puree with mezcal, agave, and lime​. This trend reflects the city’s multicultural culinary landscape, and it allows drinkers to explore flavors from around the world without leaving their barstool.

What to Try: Order cocktails featuring ingredients like matcha, tamarind, or cardamom for a global spin on your usual favorites.

6. Frozen Cocktails with a Twist

While frozen cocktails have long been a summer favorite, 2024 has taken them to the next level with elevated versions that go beyond the classic frozen margarita or daiquiri. Bartenders are now incorporating unexpected ingredients, like spiced rum, coconut cream, or even cold brew coffee, to create rich and indulgent frozen drinks that are perfect for a hot day.

The famous Frozé at Roof at Park South is a must-try, blending rosé with raspberry simple syrup and lime for a refreshing yet flavorful drink​. These updated frozen cocktails offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional slushy drinks, making them ideal for any rooftop or beachside bar visit.

What to Try: Look for frozen cocktails that incorporate fresh fruit purees, high-quality spirits, and unique flavors like coffee or coconut.

7. Craft Cocktails on Tap

To meet the high demand for craft cocktails without sacrificing quality, many bars in NYC are now offering cocktails on tap. This allows bartenders to batch their signature drinks in larger quantities, ensuring consistency in flavor while speeding up service during busy nights. You’ll find everything from classic Negronis to innovative new concoctions on tap, giving you the opportunity to try something new without the wait.

Bars like Sweetbriar are increasingly experimenting with on-tap cocktails, ensuring that guests can enjoy a perfectly mixed drink in a fraction of the time​. This trend marries convenience with craftsmanship, allowing for the same high-quality cocktail experience in a more efficient way.

What to Try: Ask the bartender about any on-tap cocktails for a quick and consistent drink that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

8. Interactive Cocktail Experiences

Beyond simply sipping your drink, many NYC bars are offering interactive cocktail experiences, allowing guests to engage in the process of cocktail creation. Whether it’s selecting your own garnishes or learning to make the drink yourself, these experiences add a personalized touch to your night out. The Art of the Cocktail classes are a prime example, offering a hands-on mixology experience where guests can get behind the bar and craft their own cocktails​.

What to Try: Join an Art of the Cocktail class or visit a bar that offers customizable cocktail options, allowing you to tailor your drink to your personal tastes.

The cocktail scene in New York City continues to grow in creativity and innovation. Whether you’re interested in sustainable drinks, low-ABV options, or exploring global ingredients, 2024 offers a wealth of new flavors and experiences for cocktail lovers. Visit venues like Roof at Park South or Sweetbriar to explore these exciting trends and enjoy some of the finest drinks NYC has to offer.