5 Low Calorie Cocktails You Can Order at Any Bar or Restaurant

Summertime is here and that means it’s time to start enjoying some delicious, refreshing cocktails. But if you’re watching your waistline, traditional cocktails can be a bit of a calorie bomb.  Fear not! We have five great low calorie cocktail options that won’t break the bank or blow up your diet. From simple vodka sodas to classic mojitos, these summer drinks are sure to hit the spot without packing on extra pounds. So, get ready for a guilt-free happy hour and check out these five low calorie cocktails you can order at any bar or restaurant!

Weekend Drink Specials in Downtown Indy at English Ivy's Eatery & Pub
Weekend Drink Specials in Downtown Indy at English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub

Low Calorie Cocktails Available Almost Anywhere

1. Vodka Soda: This classic summer cocktail is simple, refreshing, and low calorie. All you need is one shot of vodka and a splash of soda water poured over ice. Garnish with a lime for extra flavor without adding too many calories.

2. Gin & Tonic: Another great option for those watching their waistline is the gin and tonic. The tonic water adds some subtle sweetness while the gin helps to keep the drink light and calorie friendly. Just make sure not to go overboard on the garnish! A sprig of mint or slice of cucumber should do the trick!

3. Tequila & Soda: Tequila and soda may sound like an odd combination, but it’s actually quite refreshing. All you need is one shot of tequila, some soda water, and a lime wedge for garnish. This drink is low calorie and will definitely help to quench your thirst on a hot summer day.

4. Skinny Mojito: If you’re craving something a bit more flavorful, a skinny mojito may be the way to go. Instead of using traditional sugar or simple syrup, opt for sugar-free alternatives such as stevia or agave nectar. Top with lots of fresh muddled mint and lime wedges, then enjoy!

5. Rum & Diet Coke: Last but not least, rum and diet coke is another great low calorie option that won’t break the bank. Keep it light and simple with just one shot of rum, diet coke and a lime wedge for garnish.

So, there you have it! Five great low calorie cocktail options that are sure to hit the spot without packing on extra pounds. So go ahead and indulge in a guilt-free happy hour this summer! Cheers!

Low Calorie Beer Options

Ask your bartender or server if they offer light beer options like Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, or Bud Light for even more guilt-free drinks. Additional lo-calorie beers include Heineken Light, Corona Light, Corona Premier, Coors Light, Miller 64, White Claw, and High Noon.

Healthy Substitutions to Use in Classic Cocktails

Many cocktail mixers and sweeteners can be loaded with sugar and calories, which can quickly add up. Luckily, there are plenty of healthy substitutions available that can make your favorite cocktails guilt-free! Instead of using sugary mixers, try swapping them out for fresh juices like lime, lemon, or grapefruit. For sweeteners, agave nectar is a great alternative to table sugar and is actually lower on the glycemic index. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can still enjoy your favorite cocktails without sacrificing your healthy habits.

Ready to head out with friends and lovers to try some of these classic cocktails in Downtown Indy? Come hang out at English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub – No reservations required! Enjoy a wide menu selection of lunch and dinner options, plus drink specials every day of the week, all at neighborhood prices! Friday’s specials include $22.00 Prime Rib Dinner, $4 Effen, $5 Kettle One, and $3 house wine by the glass!

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Top-Recommended Low Calorie Cocktail Options for Summer

If you enjoy a great cocktail at the end of a hard day, but prefer not to indulge in too much sugar or calories, there are still many great options to choose from at your local pub that won’t set your nutrition goals back. Continue below for a list of some of the top-recommended and most frequently ordered low calories cocktails that are the perfect refreshing finish to a long work day. You may be surprised to learn which drink comes in at the lowest calories!

Downtown Indianapolis Skinny Cocktails
Downtown Indianapolis Skinny Cocktails 317-822-5070

Cocktails Under 200 Calories

You do not have to jeopardize your summer fitness plan, nor ruin your nutrition goals, every time you want to relax and have some cocktails. Instead, just stick to some popular alcoholic refreshments that are made with simple ingredients, and do not have any added sugars. Here are some top-recommended cocktails that come in at under 200 calories per drink, in order from lowest to highest:

Champagne

Nutrition: 90 Calories
Add some fresh fruit or a splash of juice for added flavor.

Vodka & Soda With Lime

Nutrition: 100 Calories
Ingredients: Vodka, Soda Water, and a Lime Wedge

Rum & Diet Coke

Nutrition: 100 Calories
Ingredients: Rum, Diet Coke, Lime Wedge

Sazerac

Nutrition: 135 Calories
Ingredients: Whiskey, Absinth, Bitters, Sugar, and Water

Gin & Tonic With Lemon

Nutrition: 150 Calories
Ingredients: Gin, Tonic Water, and Lemon Wedge

Old Fashioned

Nutrition: 155 Calories
Ingredients: Bourbon, Bitters, and Sugar

Paloma

Nutrition: 165 Calories
Ingredients: Tequila, Grapefruit Juice, Soda Water, and a Lime Wedge
For fewer calories, forgo a sugar-coated rim.

Mojito

Nutrition: 170 Calories
Ingredients: White Rum, Simple Syrup, Mint Leaves, Lime Wedge

Martini

Nutrition: 175 Calories
Ingredients: Vodka or Gin, Vermouth (Olives Optional)
For less calories, order it “dry” and forgo the olives.

Gimlet

Nutrition: 180 Calories
Ingredients: Any Liquor, Rose’s® Sweet Lime Juice, and Lime Wedge
For less calories, swap Rose’s® for a dash of simple syrup and fresh-squeezed lime.

➡ When in doubt, stick to some general rules of thumb for concocting a lo-calorie, skinny drink:

☑ Avoid premixed drinks, mixes, syrups, and liqueurs.
☑ Swap soda for sparkling water or soda water.
☑ Swap red wine for white wine.
☑ Choose simple recipes with few ingredients.
☑ Use fresh fruit to enhance flavor.

Delish Skinny Cocktails in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious summertime cocktail list and drink specials! We have a full bar stocked with all your favorites, including premium liquors, wine, beer, and more. So if you need a new “Gay-thering” place for your group, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

317-822-5070