When you’re trying to eat well or maintain your fitness goals, alcohol can be a challenge. Cocktails are often full of sugar, syrups, and mixers that hide tons of calories. However, that doesn’t mean you have to skip your favorite drink.
There are many bars today that offer smarter, lighter drink options. Also, if you know what to order, you can enjoy a night out without ruining your diet. Below are eight of the best low-calorie cocktails to order at a bar that are delicious, simple, and guilt-free.
Top 8 Low Calorie Cocktails
1. Vodka Soda with Lime
This is a go-to for a reason. A vodka soda with a splash of lime juice is light, clean, and refreshing. Plus, it is perfect if you want something that won’t weigh you down or bloat you.
- Calories: 65–90 (depending on the pour)
- Why it’s great: Vodka is one of the lowest-calorie spirits. Soda water has zero calories. A slice of lime gives it a little zing without adding sugar.
- How to order: “Vodka soda with lime, no flavored syrups.”
- Pro tip: Many bars carry flavored vodkas like cucumber or grapefruit. These offer variety without extra calories or sugar.
This cocktail is a favorite for people who want to drink socially but stay mindful. It’s also a great base if you want to add fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra flavor without calories.
2. Tequila with Fresh Lime (Skinny Margarita Style)
Regular margaritas can have over 300 calories thanks to sugary mixers. However, you can get that same delicious tang with a lighter version that’s just as satisfying.
- Calories: Around 100–120
- Why it’s great: A simple mix of high-quality tequila, fresh lime juice, and soda water (or just water) gives you that same bright flavor with a fraction of the sugar.
- How to order: “Tequila with fresh lime juice and soda water. No sour mix.”
- Pro tip: Some bars will add a splash of agave if you want it slightly sweet. Just ask for “light agave.”
This is one of the most popular low-calorie cocktails because it keeps the spirit of the original drink while trimming off unnecessary ingredients. Add a salted rim for an authentic touch.
3. Gin and Diet Tonic
It is a classic, but regular tonic is surprisingly high in sugar. So, you can switch to a diet tonic. In this way, you will get a light, crisp drink that’s easy on calories.
- Calories: 70–90
- Why it’s great: Gin is aromatic and light. Diet tonic has zero sugar. The result? A drink that feels fancy but won’t wreck your calorie count.
- How to order: “Gin and diet tonic with lime.”
- Pro tip: Ask for added herbs like cucumber, rosemary, or even a splash of bitters for an extra layer of flavor.
Bartenders are used to this request, and many even have low-calorie tonic options on hand now.
Read Also: Best Cucumber Cocktails
4. Skinny Mojito
A traditional mojito has mint, lime, white rum, and simple syrup. It’s delicious, but that syrup adds calories fast. The skinny version skips the syrup or uses less sweetener.
- Calories: 90–110
- Why it’s great: You still get that fresh, minty flavor and zesty lime, but without the heavy sugar.
- How to order: “Mojito with no syrup. Just mint, lime, rum, and soda water.”
- Pro tip: Some bars can use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Ask your bartender.
Skinny mojitos are among the most refreshing low-calorie cocktails, especially in warm weather or beach bars.
5. Champagne Or Dry Prosecco
Well, bubbly isn’t just for toasts. It’s also one of the lowest-calorie drinks you can order at the bar.
- Calories: About 90 per 4-oz glass
- Why it’s great: Sparkling wines like brut champagne or dry prosecco are naturally lower in sugar. No mixers. No syrups.
- How to order: “A glass of brut champagne” or “dry prosecco.”
- Pro tip: Avoid anything labeled “extra dry” or “demi-sec”—they have more sugar than “brut.”
Champagne is a sophisticated choice that works well when you want to sip something special. It’s light, bubbly, and easy to drink slowly.
6. Whiskey On The Rocks Or With Water
When it comes to drinks, whiskey doesn’t need mixers. A high-quality bourbon or rye served on the rocks is bold and satisfying, without extra sugar.
- Calories: 70–105 per serving
- Why it’s great: There’s no added sugar. You can savor the complex flavors slowly.
- How to order: “Whiskey on the rocks” or “whiskey with water.”
- Pro tip: A splash of club soda or an orange peel twist can enhance the flavor without extra calories.
If you’re into bold, rich spirits and don’t want the fluff, this is your drink. It’s a calorie-conscious choice for people who enjoy the drink itself instead of the sugar.
7. Dry Martini
It is timeless and surprisingly low in calories. It is made with gin or vodka and a splash of vermouth.
- Calories: 120–140
- Why it’s great: It’s strong, with no sugary mixers. The calorie count stays low because of the limited ingredients.
- How to order: “Dry vodka martini with an olive” or “extra dry gin martini.”
- Pro tip: Want something salty? Go for a dirty martini with olive brine. It will be low-cal and packed with flavor.
This drink is a good pick if you want something upscale and effective without the bloat of soda or juice.
8. Bloody Mary (Simplified)
Bloody Marys can go overboard with heavy garnishes and additives. A clean version keeps the flavor without the unnecessary extras.
- Calories: 120–150
- Why it’s great: It contains tomato juice, vodka, lemon, pepper, and a few spices, which are filling and flavorful without added sugar.
- How to order: “Bloody Mary with tomato juice and spice, hold the heavy garnishes.”
- Pro tip: Don’t let it turn into a meal. Skip the bacon, cheese, and sliders. Ask for a celery stick instead.
It’s one of the only low-calorie cocktails that’s savory and satisfying enough to double as a brunch treat.
Read Also: Smoked Cocktails
Why Choose These Cocktails?
Choosing low-calorie cocktails doesn’t mean missing out. Here’s why they’re worth it:
- You stay within your daily calorie range.
- You avoid sugar crashes and hangovers.
- You feel better the next day.
- You don’t have to skip social outings.
Plus, many of these cocktails taste better without all the sugar. They highlight the quality of the spirits and the freshness of natural ingredients.
How to Order Smarter At The Bar
Here are a few ways to keep your cocktail light and still enjoy your night:
- Be specific. Ask for no syrup, fresh juice only, or soda water instead of sweet mixers.
- Watch portion size. Some cocktails use double pours. Stick to a single.
- Ask for ingredients. Don’t be shy. Knowing what’s inside helps you make the best choice.
- Drink water between cocktails. Keeps you hydrated and slows down calorie intake.
Bartenders today are used to requests like “skinny mojito” or “low sugar margarita.” Don’t hesitate to ask.
The Bottom Line
Enjoying a night out doesn’t mean you have to overload on sugar or calories. With the right choices, low-calorie cocktails offer the perfect balance between flavor and fitness. From crisp vodka sodas to refreshing mojito twists, there’s a guilt-free drink for everyone. Next time you’re at the bar, sip smart and feel good about it. Cheers to delicious drinks that don’t derail your goals because treating yourself should never come with compromise.
