A great event isn’t just about the venue, décor, or guest list—it’s about the experience. And nothing enhances an experience quite like the perfect cocktail. Whether you’re hosting an elegant wedding, a high-energy corporate gathering, or a laid-back backyard celebration, serving the right drinks sets the tone for the evening and leaves a lasting impression on your guests at any event in Austin.
At Bar La Maison, we know that cocktails are more than just beverages—they’re conversation starters, ice-breakers, and signature elements of an event’s ambiance. That’s why we’ve curated this list of seven must-have cocktails that will elevate any event in Austin, blending timeless classics with modern twists.
Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into the must-have cocktails for your next event.
1. The Austin Mule – A Texas-Inspired Classic
Why It Works: A refreshing, locally inspired take on the traditional Moscow Mule, this cocktail is crafted with Texas spirits and infused with flavors that celebrate Austin’s unique culture.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Texas-distilled vodka (Tito’s Handmade Vodka is a great choice)
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Mint sprig and lime wedge for garnish
Best For:
- Corporate mixers
- Rooftop cocktail parties
- Summer weddings
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Serve in a copper mug for the best temperature retention and an authentic experience.
2. The Hill Country Old Fashioned – A Sophisticated Classic
Why It Works: The Old Fashioned is timeless, and this Texas-inspired version swaps out traditional ingredients for bold local flavors that elevate the drinking experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Texas bourbon (Garrison Brothers or Still Austin Whiskey)
- 1 sugar cube (or ½ oz simple syrup)
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Orange peel and Luxardo cherry for garnish
Best For:
- Upscale weddings
- Black-tie galas
- Whiskey-lovers’ events
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Stirred, not shaken! This cocktail is all about technique—slow stirring allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. The Prickly Pear Margarita – A Vibrant Texas Favorite
Why It Works: The prickly pear margarita offers a stunning magenta color, a smooth balance of sweet and tart, and a Texas twist on the beloved margarita.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz premium tequila (Casamigos Blanco or Dulce Vida Organic Tequila)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
- 1 oz prickly pear syrup
- Tajín or salt rim
- Lime wheel for garnish
Best For:
- Outdoor weddings
- Summer events
- Birthday parties
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Add a splash of mezcal for a smoky twist that makes this margarita even more memorable.
4. The Smoked Maple Manhattan – A Bold Statement Cocktail
Why It Works: Combining the rich warmth of whiskey with a touch of smoky sophistication, this cocktail is perfect for cooler weather or evening events where a touch of drama is welcomed.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey (WhistlePig or Rittenhouse)
- ¾ oz sweet vermouth
- ½ oz maple syrup
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange peel and cherry for garnish
- Optional: Smoked rosemary sprig for presentation
Best For:
- Luxury weddings
- VIP corporate events
- Fundraisers
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Use a smoking gun to infuse the cocktail with hickory or cherry wood smoke for a next-level sensory experience.
5. The Lavender French 75 – A Floral & Elegant Showstopper
Why It Works: Light, bubbly, and effortlessly elegant, the Lavender French 75 is the perfect cocktail for weddings, bridal showers, and upscale gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin (Hendrick’s or The Botanist)
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz lavender syrup
- 2 oz Champagne or sparkling wine
- Lemon twist for garnish
Best For:
- Weddings
- Garden parties
- High-end brunch events
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Pair with mini macarons or light hors d’oeuvres for a truly refined guest experience.
6. The Mezcal Paloma – A Smoky Citrus Delight
Why It Works: A Paloma is already a refreshing crowd-pleaser, but swapping in mezcal adds a sophisticated smoky depth that enhances the drink’s bright grapefruit notes.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz mezcal (Del Maguey Vida or Montelobos)
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz agave syrup
- 2 oz club soda
- Grapefruit slice and rosemary sprig for garnish
Best For:
- Trendy cocktail parties
- Outdoor festivals
- Networking events
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Add a grilled grapefruit garnish for an extra layer of smokiness and visual appeal.
7. The Espresso Martini – The Perfect Late-Night Pick-Me-Up
Why It Works: When the party’s in full swing and guests need a caffeine kick, the Espresso Martini keeps the energy high while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh espresso
- ½ oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Coffee beans for garnish
Best For:
- Late-night receptions
- New Year’s Eve parties
- After-dinner cocktail hours
Pro Tip from Bar La Maison: Use freshly brewed espresso to achieve the perfect frothy top layer when shaken.
Final Takeaways
Cocktails aren’t just beverages—they’re experiences that enhance your event’s energy and elegance. At Bar La Maison, we bring bespoke mixology, interactive drink stations, and stylish mobile bars to make your event in Austin truly unforgettable.
Ready to plan your perfect event? Contact Bar La Maison today and let’s craft a cocktail menu that will wow your guests!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I customize these cocktails to fit my event theme?
Absolutely! Bar La Maison specializes in custom cocktail menus tailored to your event’s theme and style.
2. What if I have guests who don’t drink alcohol?
We offer craft mocktail versions of all our cocktails, ensuring everyone can enjoy a beautifully crafted drink.
3. How do I know how much alcohol to provide for my event?
A general rule: 2 drinks per guest for the first hour, then 1 per hour after. Our team can help estimate quantities based on your guest count.
4. Can I feature a signature cocktail at my event?
Yes! Many hosts choose a signature drink that reflects their personality, wedding theme, or brand identity.
5. How far in advance should I book a mobile bar service?
For peak seasons (spring, summer, holidays), we recommend booking at least 3-6 months in advance to secure availability.
