Love at First Si;

Whether you love a dark and dingy dive or a classy craft cocktail bar, drinking culture continues to evolve in Oklahoma. We lay out a few trends to watch in 2026. 

Neighborhood bar experiencesWhile a fancy wine bar or sultry speakeasy is always a draw for drinkers, many folks are looking for a Cheers-esque, low-maintenance, welcoming experience in 2026. That’s not to say they aren’t still expecting excellent craft cocktails – they just want them in a no-fuss environment.

Non-alcoholic optionsMany are looking to move away from alcohol entirely, focusing instead on other ways to get a “buzz.” You’ll likely see menus with nootropics, magnesium-infusions, THC cocktails and adaptogens in 2026. (Do I know what all of those mean? Nope!)

Seasonal and local cocktails
The next time you’re out, see how many bars and restaurants are offering seasonal cocktail menus, utilizing local liquors, in-season fruit and ingredients from around region. Support local, baby!

Martini time
We’ve been seeing a martini revival for awhile now, and it only seems to be growing in 2026. Whether you’re gunning for a classic dry gin version or something a bit more whimsical like an chocolate espresso iteration, they’ll be on every menu this year.

Maximalist presentation
Bold, dramatic drinks are taking center stage, with sensory elements like smoke, fire and edible garnishes. In short, bartenders are going all out. 

An amplified Asian influence
Ingredients like yuzu, lychee, shiso, shochu and sake are making broader appearances in Western cocktail programs.

I know – in a story about all things alcohol, it may be a bit eyeroll-inducing to discuss “mindful drinking.” But hey, moderation is key in most aspects of life! To be a mindful drinker, your habits don’t need to change drastically. Instead, you just need to approach the activity with awareness, intention and presence, rather than operating out of habit or on autopilot. Let’s dive into a few ways to enact mindful drinking:

Set an intention before your first sip.
Ask yourself “Why?” Are you celebrating, socializing or simply “taking the edge off” after a long day? No matter your answer, knowing your “why” can help you moderate.

Check in with yourself.
Pause occasionally to notice physical and mental clues. Ensure you’re hydrated, energized, happy and balancing out your imbibing with hearty food intake. 

Avoid “obligatory” drinking.
If you don’t want to continue drinking at an event or even drink at all, don’t allow societal expectations or pressure to dictate your habits. If you’re worried about crumbling to a friend’s plea, grab a soda water with lime from the bar.

Plan alcohol-free days.
Regular drinking breaks can help you reset your habits and clarify your relationship with alcohol. 

Be aware of your triggers.
Explore the emotional and situational reasons you may be tempted to drink – whether it’s stress, boredom or social anxiety. Is alcohol really serving the need you think it is in that situation?

If you want to keep the bartender on your good side, follow these do’s and don’ts to curate the right vibe. 

Read the menu.
It saves the bartender time explaining every option to you.

Be ready to order, concisely.
Especially if the barkeep is in the middle of a rush.

Make eye contact.
While it may feel like a staredown, attempting to make eye contact with your bartender lets them know you’re ready to order.

Respect closing time.
You may not be ready to go home, but the bartender is. If the lights are on and chairs are stacked, you’ve already been
lingering too long.

Order one drink at a time.
 There’s no need to batch your drinks unless you’re buying a round. 

Request a “strong drink.”
If you want a double, ask for it – and be prepared to pay extra.

Be too afraid to ask for water.
A bartender would much rather give you a glass of water than a dramatic escort to the door.

Monopolize a bartender’s attention.
You are not their only customer. And hey, even if you are, they may not want to chat for two hours.

Save a seat at an overcrowded bar.
While it may seem like you hit the jackpot by finding open seats at a busy bartop, every minute you hold that seat, you’re taking money away from the bartender. 

If you’re excited to ditch Dry January, order one of these gems at bars in Tulsa and OKC.