120+ Famous Drinks You Must Try

Drinks are integral to our daily lives, from refreshing sodas to sophisticated cocktails.

Across cultures and occasions, certain beverages have risen to iconic status, beloved for their flavor, history, and versatility.

In this list, we will go through famous drinks, from classic soft drinks to bold cocktails and comforting warm beverages, each with its unique place in the drinks world.

Explore this List of Famous Drinks

1. Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola is arguably the most famous soft drink in the world.

Known for its signature taste and iconic red label, Coca-Cola was invented in 1886 and has become a global symbol of refreshment.

Whether enjoyed alone or used as a cocktail mixer, this carbonated drink is a favorite across generations.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Soft Drink
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Carbonated water, sugar, caramel, caffeine
Popular Variants	Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar

2. Pepsi

Pepsi, another major player in the soft drinks industry, offers a slightly different flavor profile from Coca-Cola, with a bit more sweetness and a citrusy aftertaste.

First introduced in 1893, Pepsi has grown into one of the most recognizable beverage brands worldwide, often in friendly rivalry with Coca-Cola.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Soft Drink
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Carbonated water, sugar, caramel, caffeine
Popular Variants	Diet Pepsi, Pepsi Zero Sugar

3. Mojito

The mojito is a refreshing cocktail with roots in Cuba.

Made with white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, this drink is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and minty.

Mojitos are often enjoyed in the summertime or on warm, tropical vacations.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	Cuba
Key Ingredients	White rum, mint, lime, sugar, soda water
Popular Variants	Strawberry Mojito, Pineapple Mojito

4. Margarita

Margaritas are one of the most popular cocktails globally.

They are made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec and are often served with a salted rim.

This tangy, refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather and pairs well with Mexican cuisine.

Margaritas can be served on the rocks, frozen, or straight up, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	Mexico
Key Ingredients	Tequila, lime juice, triple sec, salt
Popular Variants	Frozen Margarita, Strawberry Margarita, Spicy Margarita

5. Piña Colada

The Piña Colada is a tropical cocktail with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice.

This sweet and creamy drink is synonymous with beach vacations and tropical getaways.

First created in Puerto Rico, the Piña Colada has become a symbol of relaxation and fun.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	Puerto Rico
Key Ingredients	Rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice
Popular Variants	Frozen Piña Colada, Mango Piña Colada

6. Lemonade

Lemonade is a classic and refreshing beverage made from lemon juice, water, and sugar.

This simple yet delicious drink is a summer favorite, often served cold with ice.

Lemonade perfectly balances tartness and sweetness when enjoyed plain or with added fruits like berries or mint.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Soft Drink
Origin	Egypt (early versions), modern lemonade worldwide
Key Ingredients	Lemon juice, water, sugar
Popular Variants	Strawberry Lemonade, Sparkling Lemonade, Mint Lemonade

7. Iced Tea

Iced tea is a chilled beverage made from brewed tea leaves.

It can be sweetened or unsweetened.

Often served with lemon or fruit flavors, iced tea is a go-to drink for hot weather.

Its versatility and refreshing taste have made it popular worldwide, particularly in the southern United States.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Soft Drink
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Brewed tea, water, sugar (optional)
Popular Variants	Sweet Iced Tea, Lemon Iced Tea, Peach Iced Tea

8. Espresso

Espresso is a strong, concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans.

Originating in Italy, this bold beverage is the base for many popular coffee drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos.

Espresso is typically served in small shots and is beloved for its intense flavor and quick caffeine boost.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Coffee
Origin	Italy
Key Ingredients	Finely ground coffee beans, hot water
Popular Variants	Single Shot Espresso, Double Shot Espresso

9. Cappuccino

Cappuccino is a popular coffee drink with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam.

It offers a balanced flavor with a rich, creamy texture.

Often enjoyed in the morning, cappuccinos are a staple in cafes worldwide, particularly in Italy, where they originated.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Coffee
Origin	Italy
Key Ingredients	Espresso, steamed milk, milk foam
Popular Variants	Iced Cappuccino, Flavored Cappuccino (vanilla, caramel)

10. Latte

A latte is a smooth, milky coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, often topped with a small amount of foam.

Lattes are a favorite for coffee lovers who enjoy a mild, creamy beverage.

Adding various syrups or flavors, such as vanilla or hazelnut, allows lattes to be customized to suit any taste.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Coffee
Origin	Italy
Key Ingredients	Espresso, steamed milk, milk foam
Popular Variants	Vanilla Latte, Iced Latte, Mocha Latte

11. Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail with whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

Often served over ice, this drink strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour, making it a favorite for whiskey lovers.

Some variations also include a frothy egg white to add a smooth texture.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup
Popular Variants	Traditional Whiskey Sour, Bourbon Sour, Egg White Whiskey Sour

12. Bloody Mary

The Bloody Mary is a savory cocktail made with vodka, tomato juice, spices, and seasonings, including Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and celery salt.

Often garnished with celery stalk or olives, this drink is a popular choice for brunch.

It is believed to have healing properties and is usually enjoyed as a “hangover cure.”

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Vodka, tomato juice, spices, Worcestershire sauce
Popular Variants	Classic Bloody Mary, Spicy Bloody Mary, Virgin Mary (non-alcoholic)

13. Martini

The Martini is a sophisticated cocktail made with gin and dry vermouth, often garnished with an olive or a lemon twist.

This classic drink is often associated with cocktail culture and the famous James Bond movies.

The Martini can be customized with vodka instead of gin or served dirty with olive brine.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Gin, dry vermouth, olive, or lemon twist
Popular Variants	Vodka Martini, Dry Martini, Dirty Martini

14. Gin and Tonic

Gin and Tonic is a refreshing cocktail made by mixing gin with tonic water, often garnished with a slice of lime.

This simple yet satisfying drink is loved for its crisp, slightly bitter flavor.

Gin and Tonic is popular for warm weather and has a long-standing history in British colonial culture.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	England
Key Ingredients	Gin, tonic water, lime
Popular Variants	Classic Gin and Tonic, Cucumber Gin and Tonic, Elderflower Gin and Tonic

15. Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a comforting warm drink mixing cocoa powder, sugar, and milk or water.

This sweet and creamy beverage is perfect for cold weather and is enjoyed worldwide.

Hot chocolate is a favorite treat for children and adults, whether topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Hot Drink
Origin	Mesoamerica (early versions)
Key Ingredients	Cocoa powder, milk, sugar
Popular Variants	Classic Hot Chocolate, Mexican Hot Chocolate, White Hot Chocolate

16. Chai Tea

Chai Tea, also known as Masala Chai, is a spiced tea from India.

It is made by brewing black tea with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

This warm, aromatic drink is enjoyed with milk and sweetened to taste, offering a comforting and flavorful experience.

Chai is a popular drink worldwide, often served in cafes or made at home.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Hot Drink
Origin	India
Key Ingredients	Black tea, milk, spices (cardamom, cinnamon, ginger)
Popular Variants	Classic Chai, Iced Chai Latte, Vanilla Chai

17. Smoothie

Smoothies are thick, blended drinks from fruits, vegetables, and a liquid base such as juice, yogurt, or milk.

They are popular for breakfast or as a healthy snack and are often customized with various ingredients, such as protein powder, nuts, or seeds.

Smoothies are refreshing and nutritious and can be tailored to various dietary preferences.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cold Drink
Origin	United States (modern smoothie culture)
Key Ingredients	Fruits, vegetables, juice, or milk
Popular Variants	Green Smoothie, Berry Smoothie, Protein Smoothie

18. Milkshake

A milkshake is a sweet, creamy beverage blending ice cream with milk and flavorings such as chocolate syrup or fruit.

This indulgent drink is a popular choice for dessert or a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Milkshakes come in various flavors and can be topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, or candy.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cold Drink
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Ice cream, milk, flavorings (chocolate, vanilla, etc.)
Popular Variants	Chocolate Milkshake, Strawberry Milkshake, Oreo Milkshake

19. Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned cocktail has whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a citrus twist.

This simple yet elegant drink is one of the oldest recorded cocktails, and it remains a favorite for those who appreciate strong, balanced flavors.

The Old Fashioned is often garnished with an orange peel and a cherry, making it sophisticated. 

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Whiskey, bitters, sugar, citrus peel
Popular Variants	Bourbon Old Fashioned, Rye Old Fashioned, Smoked Old Fashioned

20. Negroni

The Negroni is a bold, bitter cocktail made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

This Italian classic is known for its bright red color and strong, complex flavor profile.

Often enjoyed as an aperitif, the Negroni has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for its balanced yet intense taste.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	Italy
Key Ingredients	Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth
Popular Variants	Classic Negroni, Boulevardier (with whiskey), White Negroni

21. Rum Punch

Rum Punch is a fruity, tropical cocktail with rum, fruit juices, and sweetness.

This colorful and refreshing drink is perfect for beach vacations and summertime gatherings.

Its flavors come from various ingredients like orange, pineapple, and grenadine, making it a popular choice at parties and festivals.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	Caribbean
Key Ingredients	Rum, fruit juices, grenadine
Popular Variants	Caribbean Rum Punch, Jamaican Rum Punch

22. Sangria

Sangria is a Spanish punch made with red or white wine, fresh fruit, and a brandy or orange liqueur splash.

This fruity and refreshing drink is a staple at summer parties and outdoor gatherings.

Sangria can be customized with various fruits like oranges, apples, and berries, making it visually appealing and delicious.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	Spain
Key Ingredients	Wine, fruit, brandy
Popular Variants	Red Sangria, White Sangria, Sparkling Sangria

23. Mai Tai

The Mai Tai is a tropical cocktail with rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur.

Known for its fruity and tangy flavor, it is a classic tiki drink that originated in California but became synonymous with Hawaiian culture.

This vibrant cocktail is often garnished with a lime wedge and mint, adding to its exotic appeal.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United States (California)
Key Ingredients	Rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, orange liqueur
Popular Variants	Classic Mai Tai, Pineapple Mai Tai

24. Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a bold and energizing cocktail that combines vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and a touch of sweetness.

This sophisticated drink is the perfect mix of coffee and cocktail, offering a rich, smooth flavor with a caffeine kick.

Espresso Martinis are often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink or during evening gatherings.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United Kingdom
Key Ingredients	Vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur
Popular Variants	Classic Espresso Martini, Vanilla Espresso Martini

25. Long Island Iced Tea

Long Island Iced Tea is a potent cocktail made with a mix of vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, and a splash of cola.

Despite its name, it doesn’t contain any tea, but the cola gives it a similar appearance.

This strong and sweet drink is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a bit of a kick.

Characteristic	Details
Type	Cocktail
Origin	United States
Key Ingredients	Vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, cola
Popular Variants	Classic Long Island Iced Tea, Electric Iced Tea (with blue curaçao)

Soft Drinks and Juices

• Sprite
• Mountain Dew
• Dr Pepper
• Fanta
• Root Beer
• Ginger Ale
• Tonic Water
• 7UP
• Orange Juice
• Apple Juice
• Cranberry Juice
• Grape Juice
• Tomato Juice
• Pineapple Juice
• Limeade
• Fruit Punch
• Coconut Water
• Cherry Soda
• Ginger Beer
• Club Soda

Cocktails

• Cosmopolitan
• Daiquiri
• Tequila Sunrise
• Sex on the Beach
• Manhattan
• Sidecar
• White Russian
• Black Russian
• Bellini
• French 75
• Blue Lagoon
• Caipirinha
• Tom Collins
• Singapore Sling
• Pisco Sour
• Mint Julep
• Dark ‘n’ Stormy
• Vesper Martini
• Aperol Spritz
• Zombie

Coffee and Espresso-Based Drinks

• Americano
• Flat White
• Macchiato
• Café au Lait
• Turkish Coffee
• Café Mocha
• Irish Coffee
• Affogato
• Cortado
• Frappuccino
• Cold Brew
• Nitro Coffee
• Vienna Coffee
• Caramel Latte
• Espresso Con Panna
• Cafe Cubano
• Café Bombón
• Ristretto
• Doppio
• Lungo

Tea-Based Drinks

• Green Tea
• Matcha Tea
• Earl Grey
• English Breakfast Tea
• Jasmine Tea
• Chamomile Tea
• Peppermint Tea
• Rooibos Tea
• Oolong Tea
• Bubble Tea
• Masala Chai
• Iced Green Tea
• Hibiscus Tea
• White Tea
• Herbal Tea
• Thai Iced Tea
• Darjeeling Tea
• Pu-erh Tea
• Yerba Mate
• Chai Latte

Smoothies and Milk-Based Drinks

• Banana Smoothie
• Strawberry Smoothie
• Green Smoothie
• Protein Shake
• Kale Smoothie
• Avocado Smoothie
• Berry Smoothie
• Peanut Butter Smoothie
• Mango Smoothie
• Chocolate Milkshake
• Vanilla Milkshake
• Strawberry Milkshake
• Almond Milk Latte
• Oat Milk Latte
• Matcha Latte
• Golden Milk
• Turmeric Latte
• Coconut Milkshake
• Frappé
• Lassi

Beer and Cider

• Pale Ale
• Lager
• Pilsner
• IPA (India Pale Ale)
• Porter
• Stout
• Wheat Beer
• Saison
• Amber Ale
• Sour Beer
• Cider
• Hard Cider
• Dry Cider
• Fruit Cider
• Scrumpy
• Perry
• Mead
• Lambic Beer
• Double IPA
• Belgian Dubbel

Wine and Wine-Based Drinks

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Rosé
• Moscato
• Zinfandel
• Syrah
• Shiraz
• Prosecco
• Champagne
• Port Wine
• Sherry
• Sangria
• Mulled Wine
• Ice Wine
• Sparkling Wine
• Chianti
• Pinot Grigio

Spirits and Liquors

• Vodka
• Gin
• Rum
• Tequila
• Whiskey
• Bourbon
• Scotch
• Brandy
• Cognac
• Absinthe
• Mezcal
• Armagnac
• Baijiu
• Calvados
• Schnapps
• Rye Whiskey
• Aquavit
• Grappa
• Cachaça
• Sotol

Final Thoughts

So, why does this matter? Drinks are more than just a refreshment.

They connect us, tell stories, and add enjoyment to life’s simple pleasures.

Understanding the different types of drinks allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and culture behind each one.

What’s next? Take this opportunity to discover new flavors, share your favorites, and dive deeper into the beverage world.

You can also explore more drink pairings or healthy options to expand your knowledge and enjoyment.