Bar Trends: Stats and Trends Shaping 2024

When it's 10PM on a Friday night, your bar should be buzzing with the sounds of happy customers and clinking glasses. If it’s not, it might be time to shake things up with the hottest bar trends of 2024. That’s where we come in.

In this article, we’ll unpack the top 12 bar trends in 2024 and how your business can capitalize on them.

Ready to get your bar popping? Let’s dive in.

The top 12 bar industry trends in 2024

1. Pre-batched cocktails

At a busy bar efficiency and consistency are essential. As bartenders strive to deliver top-notch beverages while keeping up with the demands of a crowd, pre-batched cocktails have presented themselves as a trend.

At its core, a pre-batched cocktail is a beverage that has been partially or fully prepared in a large format in advance, rather than being assembled on the spot. This practice involves combining some or all of the ingredients beforehand, allowing the flavors to infuse and the cocktail to be dispensed quickly.

The following cocktails are popular choices for pre-batching:

• Sangria - This is a popular pre-batched beverage because it takes a lot of ingredients and is meant to be made ahead of time.

• Espresso martinis - Because of their high demand, many bars pre-batch their coffee liquor, vodka, and (optional) Bailey’s, and then add their cold brew or espresso before shaking.

• Margaritas - If you’re a tequila bar and serve hundreds of these on a busy night, pre-batching your house marg and your skinny marg can save your bartenders time. Simply shake and pour over fresh ice into your margarita glassware.

To learn more about pre-batched cocktails check out this guide.

2. CBD-infused drinks

CBD-infused cocktails are a new and exciting trend in the bar industry. Adding CBD to cocktails can create an experience without the high associated with THC, making it an attractive option for consumers looking to have more of a chill, relaxed night out.

Before diving into CBD-infused cocktails, it’s crucial for bar owners to be aware of their local regulations regarding CBD use. While CBD is federally legal in the United States under certain conditions, state and local laws can vary significantly. Ensure that you fully understand your region's guidelines before incorporating CBD into your menu to avoid any legal issues.

Jackson’s Restaurant offers this lovely hibiscus CBD cocktail.

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For bartenders looking to capitalize on this trend, it’s all about creating an experience that appeals to the health-conscious, relaxation-seeking crowd. Here are a few ways to do it:

1. Pairing with botanicals: CBD pairs well with herbal, floral, and citrus elements, which enhances its calming effects and complements the trend toward botanical cocktails.

2. Education is key: Guests might be curious or even hesitant about trying CBD cocktails, so bartenders should be ready to explain the benefits, legalities, and how the effects of CBD differ from THC.

3. Marketing the experience: Promote your CBD-infused cocktails as part of a broader wellness-focused experience at your bar.

By carefully navigating legal considerations and focusing on creative, wellness-centered experiences, bartenders can elevate their cocktail menus and tap into a unique, growing trend.

3. Non-alcoholic drinks

Mocktails and low-alcohol beverages are only expected to grow in popularity in the coming year, especially for Gen Z and Millennial drinkers. In fact, 38% of Gen Z drinkers are buying more non-alcoholic beverages than in the previous year, compared to 8% of Boomers, 15% of Gen X, and 25% of Gen Y.

These are trending because of the growing wellness movement. People want to enjoy the social aspects of drinking without the hangover. About 41% of Americans are trying to drink less in 2024, which is a 7% increase from 2023.

Hekate Cafe & Elixir Lounge is a convivial sober sanctuary. This is one of New York City’s OG alcohol-free bars. Hekate serves NA cocktails, 0 ABV beer & wine, & more!

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Bar operators can jump on this by offering creative, complex mocktails that feel just as exciting as regular cocktails, and maybe even developing a "light" cocktail menu to cater to the health-conscious crowd.

For a list of popular mocktails your bar can offer check out this article.

4. Innovative technology solutions

In 2024, technology continues to revolutionize bar operations, with handheld POS systems leading the charge. Solutions like Toast's handheld POS empower bartenders to take orders and process payments directly from the floor, reducing wait times and enhancing customer service. In fact, Via 313 saw a $10,000 increase in revenue per week thanks to efficiency through Toast handhelds.

With a reliable POS system in place, bars can ensure smoother transactions, more accurate inventory tracking, and a better overall guest experience.

Additionally, features like pre-authorization capabilities streamline the bar tab process. This allows bartenders to secure payments upfront while customers keep their tabs open, and keep their own credit cards, reducing the risk of lost revenue and improving efficiency behind the bar.

5. SMS marketing

SMS marketing is a growing initiative in the bar industry, allowing operators to engage with their customers directly through text messaging. By sending promotions, event updates, and personalized offers straight to customers' phones, bars can build stronger connections and encourage repeat visits.

According to Sender, 78% of consumers prioritize text messaging over other phone activities like social media (66%) and emails (50%). The brand goes out to find that SMS campaigns have a 98% open rate and a 10.66% click-through rate, significantly higher than email.

Many bars are using SMS marketing to share drink specials, invite regulars to exclusive events, or remind patrons about happy hours and themed nights. Bar operators can capitalize on this trend by building a customer database, crafting targeted messages, and offering exclusive deals through SMS campaigns to drive foot traffic and foster loyalty.

To get started with Toast’s SMS Marketing tool today check out this FAQ article.

6. Unique drink menus

In 2024, bar menus are anything but ordinary. Here are some innovative ways to display your offerings to improve customer experience:

No menus: Some bars are ditching menus entirely, opting for a more personalized experience. Instead of handing out a list of drinks, bartenders engage with guests to create custom cocktails based on their preferences. This trend builds a sense of exclusivity and encourages interaction between staff and patrons, making the experience feel tailored and memorable.

For example, Attaboy has no menu. Instead, guests explain to the bartender what they’re in the mood for and trust the pros.

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Extensive, stand-out menus: On the other end of the spectrum, some bars embrace the idea of extensive, over-the-top menus. These menus are packed with creative, themed cocktails and unique ingredients, catering to adventurous guests looking to try something new. From infusions and smoke effects to whimsical glassware, bars with these menus turn each drink into a theatrical experience.

For example, Paradise Lost is a tropical-themed bar in the East Village of Manhattan with an extensive Tiki menu. There’s something for everyone on this menu from Mai Tais to “The Void’s Call Cooler”.

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QR Code Menus: Many bars have adopted QR code menus, which allow customers to access the menu digitally through their phones. This option is eco-friendly, easy to update, and allows for dynamic content, such as featuring seasonal cocktails or highlighting specials. It also saves on printing costs and streamlines the ordering process.

Toast data recently showed that 26% of respondents said that the small print is their least favorite thing about a QR code. We also found that 66% of respondents prefer menus that include photos of the dishes. So, pro tip, make the font large and add some pictures to gain your customer’s approval.

7. Ready-to-drink cocktails

Ready-to-drink (RTD) options are trending because they offer high-quality cocktails in a grab-and-go format. They're perfect for venues wanting to offer a quick yet premium drink experience without the wait.

According to IWSR, RTDs was the only major category to record volume growth (+2%) in 2023, alongside a strong +6% uptick in value.

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One standout in this category is the spiked iced tea segment. Surfside, for example, saw explosive growth in 2023, selling 1.3 million cases—a staggering 563% increase from its debut year, according to Forbes and Sponsor United. Even more impressive, Surfside achieved this while initially being available in only seven states, before expanding into 47 by the end of last year.

Bars can lean into this trend by offering a variety of ready-to-drink cocktails from High Noons, to Surfsides, and White Claws. Keep these in your refrigerators next to your bottled beer for easy storage so guests can easily see your selection. Consider offering buckets of these packaged cocktails to easily upsell.

8. Happy hour

Happy hour remains a timeless marketing strategy for bars, but in 2024, it's evolving with creative twists. Traditionally a period of discounted drinks and appetizers, happy hour has become a prime opportunity for bars to drive foot traffic during slower times. Many bars are now extending happy hours beyond the usual 5–7 p.m. window, offering late-night or even weekend specials to attract different crowds.

Bars are also using themed happy hours, like "Margarita Mondays" or "Wine Wednesdays," to create signature experiences that keep patrons coming back regularly. Special events, such as trivia or live music, are often paired with happy hour deals to make it more than just a discount—it’s an experience.

A10 Kitchen offers $5 drinks and $22 pitchers!

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To capitalize on this trend, bar operators should look at their slow periods and introduce themed or extended happy hours that appeal to their target audience. Offering exclusive happy hour menus with unique cocktails or small bites can also set a bar apart, encouraging repeat visits and boosting sales during traditionally off-peak times.

To build happy hour menus with menu-specific pricing on your Toast POS System, check out this helpful article.

9. Sustainability

Sustainability is a growing trend in the bar industry, with many operators adopting practices to reduce their carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly initiatives.

About 95% of consumers say they are trying to take some action to live sustainably.

Bars are also integrating sustainable practices into their drink offerings. Many are using locally sourced spirits, seasonal produce for cocktails, and minimizing food waste by incorporating overlooked ingredients into their menus. For example, Olmsted in Prospect Heights’ menu depends on the produce available seasonally and local vendors.

Additionally, some are implementing energy-efficient appliances and promoting zero-waste events to further reduce their environmental footprint.

Bar operators can capitalize on the sustainability trend by embracing these practices, not only to appeal to environmentally conscious customers but also to reduce costs in the long run.

10. Using social media marketing

Social media marketing has become an essential tool for bar operators looking to engage with customers and build brand awareness. With apps like Instagram and TikTok, bars can share vibrant visuals, behind-the-scenes content, drink specials, and events to capture the attention of their target audience.

Toast data found that 42% of respondents prefer social media to search engines (Google, Yelp, etc.) when trying to discover new restaurants and bars.

User-generated content is another powerful tool, with many bars encouraging guests to post photos of their menu items and tag the bar for a chance to be featured on the official page, creating a sense of community and buzz around the brand.

Dolly’s Swing & Dive posts events they host with other local businesses to get the whole community together.

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To capitalize on this trend, bar operators should consider developing a consistent content strategy that aligns with their brand voice and target audience. About 84% of respondents prefer to see photos of food and drinks served on a restaurant's social media page. Posting regularly and collaborating with local influencers or businesses can help extend reach to new customers. Social media marketing offers an affordable and effective way to drive foot traffic and enhance the overall bar experience.

To learn more download our Social Media Guide.

11. Unique glassware & presentation

In 2024, the way drinks are presented has become just as important as the drink itself. Bars are embracing the trend of unique glassware and presentation to elevate the drinking experience and make cocktails more visually appealing.

According to an article on Cocktailhire, “The visual appeal of a cocktail is as crucial as its taste. A beautifully presented drink is an invitation to enjoy, a prelude to the sensory experience that awaits. The color, the garnish, and even the glassware contribute to the first impression a cocktail makes.” - Stu Hoyland, Founder of Cocktailhire.

This trend isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about creating a memorable experience for patrons. A thoughtfully presented drink can become a talking point or can encourage customers to share their experience on social media.

Check out these beautiful cocktail presentations at HiLot.

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To capitalize on this trend, bar operators can invest in eye-catching glassware and presentation tools that align with their brand's theme or vibe. Offering signature drinks that feature innovative glassware or presentation techniques can also set a bar apart from its competition.

12. Health-conscious drinking

Health-conscious drinking is a growing trend in the bar industry, as more consumers seek lower-calorie or low-sugar cocktails. This shift likely reflects a broader focus on wellness and mindful drinking. Bars are responding by offering lighter, lower-sugar cocktails, as well as kombucha-based concoctions.

The global hard kombucha market size was valued at $40.1 million in 2021 and is projected to reach $262.78 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 23.23% from 2022 to 2030.

To capitalize on this trend, bar operators can diversify their drink menu to include a range of health-conscious options that appeal to a wider audience. Incorporating fresh, organic ingredients like herbs, citrus, and fresh juices can add flavor and nutritional value. Think options like a skinny marg!

According to a GlobalData Global Consumer Survey, 46% of consumers are influenced by how a product will impact their health when searching for alcoholic drinks.

Offering "healthier" drink options not only meets the demand for mindful drinking but also positions bars as forward-thinking and inclusive, appealing to a growing demographic of health-conscious consumers.

Set your bar up for success

The bar scene in 2024 is all about experience and catering to changing tastes. From the rise of mocktails to top sustainable practices, there's plenty of innovation to go around. Bar owners and operators who embrace these trends can create unique experiences that keep customers coming back for more.

In order to get the word out there about your new offerings, make sure to check out our article on Bar Marketing Ideas.

Related bar resource:

• 50+ BEST Cocktail Name Ideas: How to Choose Cocktail Names

• A Bartender's Guide to Pre-Batched Cocktails

• Free Bartender Training Checklist

• Free Bar Manager Duties Checklist

• Free Bar Opening Calculator

• Free Opening a Bar Checklist

• Free Bar Opening & Closing Checklist

• Free Bar Menu Templates