What Are The All-Time Favorites and Most Popular Drinks at The Poker Table?

If you have ever played casino games at brick-and-mortar casinos, you've probably noticed several glasses on the poker table. Even in movies, poker players always enjoy a few rounds of drinks while playing their hands. Refreshments are part of the entertainment players expect to enjoy on a fun night at the casino.

Refreshments help to take off the edge and give you a boost in confidence when playing poker. Even so, having a clear and focused mind is important when placing your wagers. So what are the most popular drinks that players order when playing Texas Hold 'em and other poker variations?

Whiskey

In most movies that feature poker, you can see the players holding whisky glasses and cigars in their hands as they play. Bourbon and American whiskey are the most common drinks on a poker table as the drinks were brewed to be savored, making them perfect for this intense and entertaining game.

A small amount of whiskey is served in glasses, sometimes with ice cubes – which dilutes it and allows the players to enjoy it in small sips while appreciating its aroma and purity. That ensures the players keep a clear mind as they aren't likely to get intoxicated.

Highballs

This two-ingredient cocktail contains two to three ounces of alcohol and a large amount of a non-alcoholic mixer, normally around six ounces. The cocktail is typically in a tall glass over ice and has become quite popular among poker players due to its refreshing taste and low alcohol content.

Most casinos serve different varieties of highballs, including:

• Screwdriver – Consists primarily of orange juice and vodka, although there are different variations worldwide.
• Vodka and cranberry juice – This sweet and slightly tart cocktail originates from Massachusetts and is common in late-night poker games.
• Rum and coke – This affordable cocktail is a fan favorite on the poker table as it's ideal for players who want to focus on their bankroll.
• Gin and tonic – This classic drink is favored by poker players who like to keep it simple and elegant. The drink is served in a rocks glass or highball, and it's typically garnished with a slice of cucumber or lime wedge.  

Cocktails

Poker players who prefer something more glamorous and sweeter will choose a cocktail. The sugar content in most cocktails helps the players to stay alert and engaged, even when they've been playing for hours.

Common casino classic cocktails at poker tables worldwide include martinis, margaritas, super refreshing mojitos, pina Coladas and Bloody Marys.

Energy drinks

While most people associate energy drinks with online casino players, there's no doubt they receive their fair share of attention from poker players in traditional casinos. Players who prefer non-alcoholic drinks choose energy drinks, coffee and tea as they're an excellent way to remain focused and engaged. High-caffeine drinks have been shown to boost memory, mental performance and brain function.

How to choose a drink

Whether you like playing online or in land-based casinos, here are tips for choosing a great drink to enjoy while you place your wagers:

• Stay away from hard liquor or dilute hard drinks to maintain a sharp mind when playing.
• Avoid drinks you've never tried before and reserve them for the after-gambling party.
• If you like cocktails, try the casino's special, as it's likely to be the drink most favored by players.
• Coffee, tea and water are often free in most land-based casinos. That makes them a great choice for your bankroll and mental clarity.