How to order a drink like a local in Granada

Ordering a drink sounds easy, but there’s a way to do it that saves time, improves what you get and, along the way, makes you look like a lifelong Granada local. After thousands of drinks served at our bar in Pedro Antonio, these are the tricks that tell a local apart from a newcomer.

1. Know what you want before you reach the bar

At peak time, the bar moves fast. Arrive knowing which drink and which brand you want; if you’re unsure, ask for a quick recommendation (“a smooth gin”, “something refreshing”). Deciding in front of the bartender with a queue behind you is what slows everything down.

2. Be specific: drink + brand + mixer

The formula that works: “a gin and tonic with [your gin]” or “a rum and coke”. If you don’t mind the brand, say “whatever’s good” and trust them. The clearer you are, the better the drink and the sooner you get it.

3. Ice is your friend (don’t turn it down)

A lot of people ask for “little ice”, thinking they’ll get more drink. It’s the opposite: more ice = the drink waters down less. A local isn’t afraid of ice. If you want to understand why, we explain it in our perfect gin & tonic guide.

4. Ask about the deals before ordering

In Granada almost every bar has deals on certain days and times. Asking “what deals do you have right now?” is about as local as it gets. At Margot we have them until 9 pm — you can see them on the menu.

5. The details that give you away (and how to avoid them)

• Don’t shout your order: a gesture and eye contact are enough.
• Have your payment ready: card or cash to hand speeds up the round.
• If it’s for several people, group the order: “three beers and two mojitos” beats one at a time.

The most local thing of all: let them advise you

The final trick is the simplest: trust whoever’s behind the bar. Tell us what you fancy and we’ll get you to the drink you’re after. Drop by number 85 on Pedro Antonio and see for yourself — and if we get it right, say so on Google.

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