Most Popular Bar Shots in the UK for Your Menu

Shots have long been a staple of British nightlife, as punters love the sense of celebration and occasion. For operators, they're more than just quick serves—they are high-margin items with low pour cost and high perceived value. They're ideal for packed nights or when staff are stretched, encouraging social orders and boosting spend per head.

With UK consumers increasingly seeking both classic and innovative drinks, getting your shot selection right can help you stand out in a competitive market.

Top 10 Most Popular Shots in UK Bars

1. Jägerbomb

The Jägerbomb is still the go-to order on a big night out. That mix of Jägermeister and energy drink flies out in pubs, clubs, and student bars up and down the country.

2. Lemon Drop

A zingy combination of vodka, lemon juice, and sugar. Its sweet-sour balance makes it one of the most approachable shots for mixed groups.

3. Kamikaze

The Kamikaze packs a sharp, tangy punch with vodka, triple sec, and lime juice.

4. B-52

A striking layered shooter of Kahlúa, Baileys, and Grand Marnier. Its visual appeal makes it a favourite on social media.

5. Tequila (Classic, Slammer & Rose)

From the ritual of salt, tequila, and lemon, to the fizzy Tequila Slammer, and the creamy strawberry-flavoured Tequila Rose, this family of shots remains one of the UK's most popular and versatile categories.

6. Slippery Nipple

A sweet-and-smooth layered shot of Sambuca and Irish cream. Popular in the UK for its playful name and distinctive look.

7. Sourz Shots

Bright, colourful, and lower ABV than spirits, Sourz has become a staple in UK bars for groups looking for fruity rounds without the burn.

8. Baby Guinness

A mini pint lookalike made from coffee liqueur and Irish cream. Eye-catching, smooth, and one of the most consistently ordered novelty shots in UK pubs and bars.

9. Sambuca

Anise-flavoured and often served with three coffee beans for "health, wealth, and happiness." A mainstay in UK bars and often ordered late at night.

10. Irish Car Bomb

A boozy combination of Irish whiskey, cream liqueur, and stout. Still a favourite for hearty rounds in pubs and Irish bars across the UK.

Fancy shaking up your bar menu with a few shots your guests won’t see everywhere else? Check out this video from UK bartender Dr. Cork, where he mixes and tastes 10 off-beat shooters — from Peppermint Patty to the cheeky Fuzzy Jagger and the punchy Superman Shot.

Guest Preferences: What the Data Shows

According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025, several trends show how shots can drive business growth. 

The data reveals that 44% of UK consumers prefer casual dining and bars as their main dining experience. With 63.5% of diners noticing price changes on menus, shots offer a useful tool for maintaining perceived value whilst protecting margins. 

When 38.5% of guests say they're more likely to order "house favourites" when called out on menus, highlighting your most popular shots becomes an easy win. Our advice is to showcase your house favourites by featuring best-selling shots on menus or chalkboards. Bundle for groups with shot paddles or "rounds for five" offers. 

With 47.5% likely to post on social media if a venue's interior is visually appealing, pairing photogenic shots with Instagrammable backdrops creates viral potential. You should also train staff to serve them with style to encourage social sharing.

Legal Requirements to Consider

Throughout the UK, the sale of alcohol is restricted and pubs, restaurants, shops and other premises must be licensed by the local authority under the Licensing Act 2003. 

Having shots on your menu means keeping things above board. In the UK, spirits like gin, rum, vodka, and whisky have to be poured in standard measures (25ml or 35ml) under the Alcohol Measures Regulations 1995. 

The Licensing Act 2003 also makes it clear that you can’t promote shots in a way that pushes excessive drinking. And don’t forget Challenge 25 — always check ID for anyone who looks under 25.

For the most current guidance, refer to the UK Government's alcohol licensing information at gov.uk/guidance/alcohol-licensing.

Final Pour

Shots remain one of the most powerful tools in a UK bar's arsenal, and your menu should balance right between timeless favourites and fun crowd-pleasers

They’re quick to serve, deliver healthy margins, and guests love them for the ritual as much as the taste.