Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Ah, the Old Fashioned – a timeless classic that never goes out of style. This iconic whiskey-based cocktail has captivated taste buds for centuries, and if you’ve ever wondered what an Old Fashioned tastes like, you’re in for a treat. But knowing how to order an Old Fashioned like a pro can elevate your drinking experience to new heights. In this clever and informative article, we’ll guide you through the ins and outs of ordering an Old Fashioned with confidence, whether you’re at a swanky cocktail bar or your favorite neighborhood watering hole.

Table of contents
How To Order an Hold Fashioned
First, you need to decide what type of whiskey you want in your Old Fashioned. Bourbon is the traditional choice, but you can also use rye, rye whiskey, or even Scotch whisky. If you are not sure what type of whiskey you like, ask your bartender for a recommendation.
Once you have chosen your whiskey, you need to decide what type of bitters you want. Angostura bitters are the most common choice, but you can also use orange bitters, Peychaud’s bitters, or even chocolate bitters.
Next, you need to decide how sweet you want your Old Fashioned. Most Old Fashioneds are made with sugar, but you can also use simple syrup or even honey. If you are not sure how sweet you want your Old Fashioned, ask your bartender for a recommendation.
Finally, you need to decide what garnish you want. The traditional garnish for an Old Fashioned is an orange peel, but you can also use a cherry, a lemon twist, or even a pineapple wedge.
Script: How To Order an Old Fashioned
Here is a sample script of how you can order an Old Fashioned:
“I’ll have an Old Fashioned, please. Bourbon, Angostura bitters, a little sweet, and an orange peel.”
this is a simple script for ordering an Old Fashioned Drink
Your bartender will then make your Old Fashioned and hand it to you. Enjoy!
Here are some tips for ordering an Old Fashioned
- Be specific about what you want. Don’t just say “I’ll have an Old Fashioned.” Tell your bartender what type of whiskey you want, what type of bitters you want, how sweet you want your Old Fashioned, and what garnish you want.
- Be patient. Making an Old Fashioned takes time. Don’t expect your bartender to whip one up for you in 30 seconds. Be patient and enjoy the process.
- Be prepared to pay a premium. Old Fashioneds are not cheap. Be prepared to pay at least $10 for an Old Fashioned at a bar.
- Have fun! The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that is meant to be enjoyed. So relax, sip your drink, and enjoy the moment.
Choose Your Whiskey
When ordering an Old Fashioned, the first decision you’ll need to make is the type of whiskey you prefer. Traditionally, rye whiskey is used in an Old Fashioned, but bourbon has become a popular choice as well. If you’re unsure about the differences between these two whiskeys, our article on the Difference between Rye Whiskey and Bourbon will help you make an informed decision.
Specify Your Sweetener
The Old Fashioned’s sweetness comes from sugar or simple syrup, depending on the bartender’s preference or your request. If you have a preference for either granulated sugar or simple syrup, make sure to mention it when ordering. You can also ask for alternative sweeteners, such as agave nectar or honey, if you’re looking for a unique twist on the classic.
Choose Your Bitters
Angostura bitters are the traditional choice for an Old Fashioned, but there’s a whole world of bitters out there to explore. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can request orange, chocolate, or even cherry bitters to add a different dimension to your cocktail. Don’t be afraid to ask your bartender for recommendations – they’ll be happy to help you find the perfect bitters for your taste.
Garnish Preferences
The standard garnish for an Old Fashioned is an orange peel, which adds a touch of citrus aroma and flavor to the drink. However, some bartenders might also include a cherry, while others may use a lemon peel. If you have a specific garnish preference, be sure to mention it when placing your order.
Customize Your Ice
The type of ice in your Old Fashioned can make a big difference in the overall experience. You can choose between a single large ice cube, which melts slowly and maintains the cocktail’s integrity, or crushed ice, which provides a colder and more diluted drink. Be sure to specify your preferred ice style when ordering.
Compare and Contrast
Now that you’ve mastered ordering an Old Fashioned, why not try other classic whiskey cocktails? The Manhattan is another timeless favorite that showcases the rich flavors of whiskey, and you can read about the differences between these two iconic drinks in our Manhattan vs. Old Fashioned article. Comparing the flavors and styles of various whiskey cocktails can help you refine your palate and discover new favorites.
And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to ordering an Old Fashioned like a seasoned pro. Remember, communication is key when ordering a cocktail, so don’t hesitate to let your bartender know your preferences. The more specific you are about your desired ingredients and presentation, the more likely you are to enjoy a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned that suits your taste. Cheers to your newfound knowledge, and happy sipping!
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The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that is made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a garnish. It is a simple drink to order, but there are a few things you should know to make sure you get the perfect Old Fashioned.
Bourbon is the traditional choice for an Old Fashioned, but you can also use rye, rye whiskey, or even Scotch whisky. If you are not sure what type of whiskey you like, ask your bartender for a recommendation.
Angostura bitters are the most common choice for an Old Fashioned, but you can also use orange bitters, Peychaud’s bitters, or even chocolate bitters.
Most Old Fashioneds are made with sugar, but you can also use simple syrup or even honey. If you are not sure how sweet you want your Old Fashioned, ask your bartender for a recommendation.
The traditional garnish for an Old Fashioned is an orange peel, but you can also use a cherry, a lemon twist, or even a pineapple wedge.
Simply tell your bartender what type of whiskey you want, what type of bitters you want, how sweet you want your Old Fashioned, and what garnish you want. Your bartender will then make your Old Fashioned to your specifications.
Old Fashioneds are not cheap. Be prepared to pay at least $10 for an Old Fashioned at a bar.
There are many great bars that serve a good Old Fashioned. Ask your friends for recommendations or check online reviews.
Some other classic cocktails include the Manhattan, the Martini, and the Whiskey Sour.
One trend in the cocktail world is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Another trend is the use of craft spirits.
Use high-quality ingredients, such as bourbon, bitters, and sugar. Use fresh fruit for the garnish. And don’t overmix the drink.