What Does It Mean To Order A Rail Drink?

Defining a rail drink — and when to order it

You might be more accustomed to the phrases "well" or "house drink," depending on your usual hangouts. In some establishments, the well refers to the least expensive spirits, while the speed rail or rack contains the most popular options (which aren't always the same). In other places, the well specifically denotes the ice well, where you likely won't find any bottles for safety reasons. Among bartenders, the term "rail drink" tends to be more commonly used outside the United States.

"I've never referred to it as a rail drink," said Chad Michael George, a bartender and consultant from Denver who spent years at the esteemed Williams & Graham, in an interview with Chowhound. "It's the speed rail. But for me, it's always been well spirits and well drinks." So if the bartender looks puzzled when you ask for a rail drink, you might want to rephrase your order.

To add to the confusion, Mark Schettler, a hospitality consultant in New Orleans with two decades of bartending experience, explained that bartenders often use terms more loosely among themselves. "'In the rail or well' indicates that the bottle is in the speed rail, but 'rail/well spirits' refers to a bottom-shelf spirit, regardless of its actual location," he noted.

Depending on the bar, the rail might even feature premium brands as part of a promotion or to create an upscale atmosphere. So be sure to check the bottles before placing your order; your favorite brand might be available at a happy hour price.

Cocktails commonly available as rail drinks

Whether referred to as rail, well, or house drinks, the concept is simple: they consist of a few ingredients and aren't tied to a specific brand, age, or variety. The most typical rail selections are two-ingredient combinations like rum and coke, vodka tonic, vodka cranberry, and martinis. The goal is to choose one spirit paired with one mixer. Add a lime or olive for garnish, and you're all set to enjoy your drink.

You can also likely order variations of popular cocktails such as Margaritas, Manhattans, or even Mick Jagger's former favorite, the tequila sunrise. However, it's best to steer clear of brand-specific spirits (known as call drinks) or cocktails that, while well-known, require unusual ingredients, like the bourbon-based paper plane. Drinks that need blended or chilled components, such as piña coladas, may not be available in the rail. But pay attention to your surroundings: if you're in a dive bar or a simple local establishment, the rail drinks are probably going to be straightforward. Conversely, a craft cocktail bar or speakeasy might offer a more extensive selection.