What Your Drink Order Says About You (And What Your Server Is Really Thinking!)
Written by Zach Miller on September 9, 2025
Picture this: You’ve finally escaped the chaos of soccer practice and homework battles for a rare dinner out with friends. The server approaches, pen poised, and asks the dreaded question: “What can I get you to drink?”
Little did you know, that simple order is about to reveal more about your personality than your choice of appetizer ever could. According to recent insights from Food and Wine magazine, servers are making snap judgments about who you are based on what’s in your glass – and some of these revelations might surprise you!
The Psychology Behind Your Sip
We’re all guilty of people-watching at restaurants (don’t deny it – we see you checking out the couple’s dramatic conversation at table six). But turns out, your server is doing some detective work of their own, and your drink choice is their biggest clue about your personality.
Water: The Great Personality Divider
Think water is just water? Think again, mama!
Tap water drinkers are seen as down-to-earth and practical – basically the mom who remembers to pack extra snacks and always has wet wipes ready. You’re focused on hydration (hello, trying to hit that eight-glasses-a-day goal!) or maybe just being budget-conscious because let’s face it, kids are expensive.
Sparkling water enthusiasts, on the other hand, are viewed as adventurous spirits. You’re the friend who suggests trying that new fusion restaurant downtown or books the family camping trip. There’s something about those bubbles that screams “I’m ready for whatever comes next!”
The Cosmopolitan Conundrum
Order a cosmo and servers immediately peg you as someone with sophisticated tastes – and quite possibly a Sex and the City superfan. (No judgment here; we’ve all had our Carrie Bradshaw moments.) This pink-hued cocktail suggests you appreciate the finer things in life and aren’t afraid to embrace your feminine side, even if it means dealing with eye rolls from your teenager.
Coffee: Your Personality in a Cup
Coffee orders are apparently like personality tests in liquid form:
Black coffee drinkers are seen as no-nonsense, straightforward people who are ready to tackle business. You’re the mom who handles the PTA meeting like a boardroom presentation and gets things done efficiently.
The elaborate coffee creation (we’re talking oat milk, nutmeg, whipped cream – the works) suggests you might be a bit high-maintenance. But hey, if you’re juggling work deadlines and carpool schedules, you deserve that perfectly crafted latte exactly how you want it!
Hot Tea: The Self-Care Queen
Hot tea drinkers are perceived as introspective, sincere, and someone who genuinely knows how to take care of themselves. In other words, you’re the friend everyone turns to for advice, and you actually remember to schedule your annual check-ups. You understand that sometimes slowing down for a proper cup of tea is exactly what your soul needs.
The Tito’s and Vodka Tragedy
Here’s where things get hilariously awkward. If you’ve ever ordered “Tito’s and vodka,” your bartender has definitely laughed – because Tito’s is vodka. What you’re essentially ordering is a double shot of vodka, which explains why one establishment reportedly charges $100 for this “cocktail.”
Consider this your friendly PSA: maybe brush up on basic liquor knowledge before your next girls’ night out. Your server (and your wallet) will thank you.
What This Really Means for You
Look, at the end of the day, these observations are more entertaining than scientific. Your drink order doesn’t define you any more than your choice of minivan color defines your parenting style. But it is fascinating to consider how these small choices create impressions – especially when you’re trying to make connections, whether it’s a business dinner or a rare date night.
The real takeaway? Order what makes you happy. If that’s sparkling water because you’re feeling fancy, go for it. If it’s black coffee because you need the caffeine to survive the afternoon carpool run, own it. And if you genuinely enjoy cosmopolitans, channel your inner Samantha Jones and sip with confidence.
The Bottom Line
Next time you’re out for dinner, pay attention to what everyone at your table orders. You might just discover something new about your friends – or realize that your sister’s elaborate coffee order perfectly explains why she reorganizes her spice rack by color.
Just remember: whether you’re team tap water or team elaborate cocktail, what matters most is that you’re taking time for yourself. In a world where we’re constantly giving to everyone else, sometimes the most revolutionary act is simply ordering exactly what you want.
What’s your go-to drink order? Do these personality insights ring true for you? Let us know on our social media – we’d love to hear from our Froggy family!
Source: Food and Wine magazine