How To Create A Drink Menu

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

Crafting the Ultimate Cocktail Menu: A Guide for Australian Bars (RSA Compliant)

A well-organised and visually appealing drink menu is the cornerstone of any successful bar, café, or restaurant in Australia. Beyond simply listing beverages, it serves as a powerful tool to reflect your brand identity, guide customer choices, and most importantly, ensure strict compliance with Australian liquor licensing laws, including the critical Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) regulations.

Creating the perfect drink menu involves meticulous planning, from defining your venue’s concept and understanding your target audience to curating a balanced and enticing selection of beverages. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to design a drink menu that is not only visually captivating and practical but also fully compliant with Australian regulatory standards.

Step 1: Define Your Concept and Customer Base – The Foundation of Your Menu

Before diving into drink selections, establishing a clear vision for your venue’s theme and understanding your target audience is paramount. Your drink menu should be a seamless extension of the overall experience you aim to deliver.

Key Considerations:

• Venue Type: Are you running a sophisticated cocktail lounge, a laid-back neighbourhood bar, a vibrant beachside café, or a family-friendly restaurant? Each venue type dictates a distinct atmosphere and customer expectation.
• Target Audience: Who are your primary patrons? Are they local professionals seeking after-work relaxation, tourists looking for unique experiences, families enjoying a meal, or university students on a budget? Tailoring your offerings to their preferences is crucial.
• Food Pairings: How do your drink offerings complement your food menu?
  Consider offering pairings that enhance the dining experience.
• Brand Messaging: What story does your menu tell about your brand? Your menu should be a reflection of your establishment’s unique personality and values.

Example:

• A chic rooftop bar in Melbourne targeting young professionals would feature a menu with premium craft cocktails, boutique wines, and sophisticated share plates.
• A coastal pub in Byron Bay catering to tourists and locals might emphasise local craft beers, refreshing fruit-based cocktails, and casual seafood dishes.

Step 2: Curate Your Drink Selection – A Balanced and Enticing Range

Once your concept is defined, the next step is to curate a well-balanced selection of beverages that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. A comprehensive menu includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, ensuring inclusivity.

Deciding on Your Range:

• Market Research: Stay informed about current drink trends and best-selling beverages in similar venues.
• Seasonal Specials: Introduce seasonal specials that reflect the time of year, such as refreshing summer cocktails or warming winter drinks.
• Variety: Offer a mix of classic favourites and unique, innovative options to cater to a wide range of palates.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Provide a robust selection of non-alcoholic alternatives, including mocktails, freshly squeezed juices, and premium sodas.

Alcoholic Beverage Considerations (Australian Law Compliance):

• Serving Sizes: Clearly specify serving sizes for all alcoholic beverages (e.g., 150ml for wine, 375ml for beer, 30ml for spirits). This is a legal requirement in Australia.
• Alcohol by Volume (ABV): Indicate the ABV percentage for all alcoholic drinks.
• Responsible Service: Prioritise responsible service practices by limiting high-alcohol cocktails and promoting safe drinking. Offer water freely and encourage food consumption.

Example Drink Selection:

• Cocktails:
• • Classic Margarita (250ml, 12% ABV) – $18 AUD
  • Espresso Martini (200ml, 14% ABV) – $20 AUD
  • Australian Native Botanical Gin and Tonic (200ml, 10% ABV) $16 AUD
• Beers & Ciders:
• • XXXX Gold (375ml, 4.2% ABV) – $9 AUD
  • Little Creatures Pale Ale (330ml, 5.2% ABV) – $12 AUD
  • Local Apple Cider (330ml, 4.8% ABV) $11 AUD
• Wines:
• • Sauvignon Blanc (150ml, 12.5% ABV) – $10 AUD
  • Shiraz (150ml, 14% ABV) – $12 AUD
  • Sparkling wine (120ml, 11.5% ABV) $14 AUD
• Non-Alcoholic Options:
• • Virgin Mojito (250ml) – $10 AUD
  • Sparkling Mineral Water (750ml) – $8 AUD
  • House made Lemon Lime and bitters (300ml) $9 AUD

Step 3: Format, Design, and Layout – Creating a Visually Appealing Menu

A well-designed menu enhances readability and guides customers through their choices effortlessly.

Key Design Elements:

• Font Choice: Use clear, legible fonts that align with your brand’s aesthetic.
• Categorisation: Organise drinks into logical categories (e.g., cocktails, beers, wines, non-alcoholic drinks).
• Highlighting: Use distinct formatting to highlight signature drinks and seasonal specials.
• Visual Appeal: Ensure the design complements your venue’s overall theme and ambiance.
• Australian Standards: Ensure size of text is large enough to be read by all customers.

Practical Layout Tips:

• Headings and Subheadings: Use headings and subheadings to create a clear structure.
• White Space: Avoid overcrowding; use white space to enhance readability.
• Descriptions: Include concise and enticing descriptions for unique or specialty drinks.

Step 4: Ensure Compliance with Australian Regulations – Prioritising Responsible Service

Australia has stringent RSA laws that bars must adhere to. Your drink menu should reflect these regulations.

Regulatory Requirements:

• Serving Sizes: Clearly display serving sizes for all alcoholic beverages.
• ABV Percentage: Indicate the ABV percentage for applicable drinks.
• Mandatory Warnings: Include mandatory health warnings, such as “Drink Responsibly” and “It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of, a person under the age of 18 years.”
• Promotion Compliance: Ensure all promotions comply with RSA laws, avoiding the encouragement of excessive drinking.
• State and Territory Laws: Be aware that each Australian state and territory has its own specific liquor licensing laws, so always check with your local authorities.

Tips for Compliance:

• Local Licensing Authorities: Consult with your local licensing authorities for specific state regulations.
• Regular Updates: Update your menu regularly to reflect changes in laws and policies.
• Staff Training: Ensure all staff are thoroughly trained in RSA practices.

Step 5: Establish Pricing and Consistent Metrics – Balancing Profitability and Value

Your pricing strategy should reflect ingredient costs, competitor pricing, and the overall value you provide to customers.

Best Practices for Pricing:

• Standardised Serving Sizes: Maintain consistent serving sizes for all drinks.
• Clear Pricing: Display pricing clearly in AUD.
• Value Proposition: Ensure your pricing reflects the quality and value of your drinks.

Example Pricing:

• Classic Negroni (200ml, 14% ABV) – $19 AUD
• Local Craft IPA (375ml, 6% ABV) – $13 AUD
• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice (300ml) – $7 AUD

Step 6: Introduce Seasonal Specials and Limited-Time Offers – Keeping Your Menu Fresh

A dynamic drink menu that adapts to seasons and events can boost customer interest and drive sales.

Seasonal Ideas:
Summer in Australia is synonymous with sun-drenched days and balmy evenings. Your drink menu should reflect this vibrant energy, offering a medley of refreshing options that quench thirst and invigorate the senses.

• Fruit-Based Cocktails:
• • Watermelon & Mint Cooler: Imagine muddled fresh watermelon, a splash of lime juice, a hint of agave, and a generous sprig of mint, all shaken with premium vodka or white rum. This cocktail is the epitome of summer, offering a sweet and herbaceous escape from the heat.
  • Mango & Passionfruit Margarita: A tropical twist on a classic, blending ripe mango and tangy passionfruit with tequila, lime, and a touch of Cointreau. Serve it frozen or on the rocks, garnished with a lime wedge and a passionfruit half.
  • Berry & Basil Spritzer: A light and effervescent option, combining muddled mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), fresh basil leaves, a splash of gin or Prosecco, and a dash of soda water.
• Iced Teas:
• • Peach & Ginger Iced Tea: Brewed black tea chilled and infused with slices of ripe peach and fresh ginger root. A touch of honey adds sweetness, creating a balanced and invigorating drink.
  • Hibiscus & Mint Iced Tea: A vibrant and floral option, brewed hibiscus tea chilled and infused with fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lime. This caffeine-free option is perfect for those seeking a refreshing alternative.
  • Green Tea & Lemon Iced Tea: A healthy and refreshing option, brewed green tea chilled and infused with fresh lemon slices and a touch of honey.
• Chilled Wines:
• • Crisp Sauvignon Blanc: Offer a selection of Australian Sauvignon Blancs, known for their bright acidity and vibrant citrus and tropical fruit notes. Serve well-chilled.
  • Rosé Wine: A versatile and elegant option, perfect for summer afternoons. Choose a dry rosé with notes of strawberry and raspberry.
  • Sparkling Wines: Offer a range of sparkling wines, from Australian sparkling whites to Prosecco and Champagne. These celebratory drinks are perfect for summer gatherings.
  • Light bodied chilled reds: A chilled Pinot Noir or a chilled light Gamay, can be exremely refreshing on a hot day.

Winter: Warmth and Comfort in Every Sip

Winter in Australia calls for drinks that provide warmth and comfort, creating a cozy atmosphere for your patrons.

• Warm Mulled Drinks:
• • Classic Mulled Wine: Red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, orange peel, and a touch of brandy. Serve warm, garnished with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
  • Spiced Apple Cider: Apple cider simmered with cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. A splash of rum or brandy adds extra warmth.
  • Hot Buttered Rum: Dark rum, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, blended into a rich and indulgent drink.
• Spiced Cocktails:
• • Spiced Pear & Ginger Old Fashioned: Bourbon or rye whiskey stirred with muddled pear, ginger liqueur, bitters, and a touch of maple syrup.
  • Cinnamon & Orange Hot Toddy: Whiskey, honey, lemon juice, and hot water, infused with cinnamon and orange peel.
  • Spiced Cranberry Margarita: Tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, and a touch of cinnamon syrup, served warm or slightly chilled.
• Robust Red Wines:
• • Full-Bodied Shiraz: Offer a selection of Australian Shiraz wines, known for their rich fruit flavours and spicy notes.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: A classic winter wine, with its bold tannins and dark fruit flavours.
  • Merlot: A smooth and velvety red wine, perfect for those seeking a softer option.
  • Fortified wines: Port or Sherry, are fantastic winter options.

Enhancing the Seasonal Experience:

• Seasonal Garnishes: Use seasonal fruits, herbs, and spices to garnish your drinks.
• Themed Decor: Decorate your bar with seasonal elements, such as pumpkins and pine cones in winter or citrus fruits and flowers in summer.
• Food Pairings: Offer food pairings that complement your seasonal drinks, such as cheese platters with mulled wine or seafood appetizers with chilled rosé.
• Promotional Events: Host seasonal events, such as wine tastings or cocktail workshops, to attract customers.
• Menu descriptions: Ensure your menu descriptions are very descriptive, so your customers can imagine the drinks before they order.

Tips for Specials:

• Separate Specials: Display limited-time offers separately from the main menu.
• RSA Compliance: Ensure all special drinks comply with RSA laws.
• Promotion: Utilize social media to promote your specials.

Step 7: Gather Feedback and Revise – Continuous Improvement

After launching your menu, actively seek feedback to refine and improve it.

Ways to Test Your Menu:

• Trial Nights: Conduct trial nights with staff and select customers.
• Feedback Cards: Use comment cards or online surveys to gather feedback.
• Sales Analysis: Monitor sales trends to identify popular and underperforming drinks.

How to Make Improvements:

• Menu Simplification: Simplify the menu if customers find it overwhelming.
• Pricing Adjustments: Adjust pricing based on customer feedback and sales data.
• Stay Updated: Continuously monitor changes to local laws and regulations.

Final Thoughts

Creating a successful cocktail menu is an ongoing process that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to responsible service. By following these guidelines, you can create a menu that not only delights your customers but also ensures compliance with Australian liquor licensing laws, setting your bar up for long

Thanks for joining us behind the bar!

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/

Check out more :
How To Make Drinks
How To Use Bartending Tools
How To Mix Cocktails
How To Garnish Drinks
How To Pair Drinks With Food
How To Clean Bartending Equipment
How To Upsell Drinks
How To Create A Drink Menu