What is the bar lingo for no ice?

Answered by Michael Weatherspoon

When it comes to bar lingo, there are a few different terms that can be used to indicate that a drink should be served without ice. One common phrase is “neat.” This term is typically used when ordering a spirit or liquor straight from the bottle, with no ice or mixers added. For example, if you were at a bar and wanted a glass of whiskey without any ice, you could simply order it “neat.”

Another term that is sometimes used is “straight up.” This phrase is often used when ordering a cocktail that has been shaken with ice and then strained into a glass. The term “straight up” implies that the drink should be served without ice, but still chilled from the shaking process. This is commonly used for drinks like martinis or margaritas.

Using these terms can help you communicate your preferences to the bartender clearly and efficiently. It's important to note that different regions and establishments may have their own variations of bar lingo, so it's always a good idea to clarify your order if you're unsure.

In my experience as a sommelier and brewer, I've encountered many situations where customers have requested drinks without ice. One memorable occasion was when a customer came into the bar and asked for a glass of , neat. He explained that he preferred to savor the flavors of the Scotch without the dilution that ice can bring. It was interesting to see how specific he was about his preference and how much he appreciated the purity of the spirit.

Understanding bar lingo can also be beneficial when you're behind the bar yourself. As a brewer, I've had the opportunity to work with bartenders and observe their interactions with customers. It's important for bartenders to be knowledgeable about these terms and be able to confidently serve drinks without ice when requested. This ensures that customers receive the drink exactly as they desire, enhancing their overall experience at the bar.

To summarize, when it comes to ordering a drink without ice, the bar lingo terms “neat” and “straight up” are commonly used. “Neat” indicates a spirit or liquor served straight from the bottle, while “straight up” refers to a cocktail shaken with ice and strained into a glass. Using these terms can help both customers and bartenders effectively communicate and ensure that drinks are served to the customer's specifications.