Some say craft cocktails under $10 are extinct — a relic of a pre-inflation era when rent was cheaper and bartenders had time to chat. But dig a little deeper into your city’s bar scene, and you’ll discover a refreshing truth: affordable, well-made cocktails still exist. You just need to know where to look, when to go, and what to order.
Whether you’re a fan of stiff old fashioneds or floral gin fizzes, here’s how to find excellent cocktails without emptying your checking account.
The Power of Timing
Happy hour isn’t just for discounted beers. Many bars offer select craft cocktails for $8–10 during weekday hours (typically between 4–7 p.m.). Some upscale spots use this window to attract post-work crowds, offering a handful of signature cocktails at nearly half their usual price. Check out places like:
- Death & Co. Denver: Select cocktails for $9 during happy hour
- Dutch Kills in NYC: Strong pours and rotating drink specials
- Trick Dog in SF: Occasionally offers themed menus with $10 drinks at off-peak hours
Pro tip: Don’t skip the bar’s website or Instagram page. That’s where daily specials and happy hour menus often drop first.
Ask for a Dealer’s Choice
Many cocktail-forward bars offer a “dealer’s choice” — you give the bartender your flavor preferences (spirit, sweet/sour, herbal, etc.) and a price point, and they’ll make you something special. Most will work within your budget if you’re upfront. It’s a low-pressure way to get a custom drink, often at a lower price than the printed menu.
Neighborhoods Matter
Trendy cocktail bars in business districts or luxury hotels rarely offer deals. But neighborhood spots — especially those off the beaten path — often have surprisingly skilled bartenders and very reasonable prices. In cities like Portland, Austin, New Orleans, or Pittsburgh, $9 can still get you a proper daiquiri or mezcal sour that rivals anything downtown.
Look for bars with rotating seasonal menus, small footprints, and loyal local followings. Yelp, Reddit threads, and bartender recommendations are gold for uncovering these gems.
Classics Keep the Price Low
One reliable trick: order a classic. Bars often charge less for time-tested staples like:
- Old Fashioned
- Daiquiri
- Negroni
- Manhattan
- Gimlet
These drinks require no obscure ingredients or elaborate garnishes, making them more affordable by default — even at cocktail-centric spots.
Craft cocktails under $10 aren’t a myth. They’re just hiding in plain sight — on happy hour menus, off-the-radar bars, and dealer’s choice specials from bartenders who actually love making drinks. Skip the $19 smoky lavender spritz and try something classic, seasonal, or simple. Your taste buds (and your bank account) will thank you.
