17 Dad-Approved Cocktails for Father’s Day

Father’s Day is more than just cards and cookouts—it’s a chance to show appreciation with something a little more personal. And what better way to toast to dad than with a well-crafted cocktail tailored to his taste? Whether he’s a fan of smoky sippers, bold bourbons, or adventurous twists on the classics, the right drink can be a perfect gesture of celebration.

This curated list of 17 dad-approved cocktails spans the full spectrum—from timeless favorites with a modern edge to inventive creations that highlight unexpected ingredients like pandan, smoked pineapple, or peated whisky. Each drink is thoughtfully selected to suit a variety of palates, ensuring that every kind of dad finds something he’ll love.

So whether you’re mixing it up behind the bar or planning a relaxed backyard gathering, these cocktails offer a memorable way to elevate Father’s Day. Raise a glass to the dads who taught us how to grill, fix things, tell a great story—and now, maybe, enjoy a damn good drink.

Classic Cocktails with a Twist

These are the staples of a dad’s bar cart—refined, no-nonsense, and full of character. But instead of sticking strictly to tradition, these cocktails come with thoughtful upgrades or bold swaps that bring fresh life to timeless recipes. Perfect for fathers who love the classics but appreciate a bit of creative flair.

1. Old Fashioned 2.0 (Smoked-Ice Upgrade)

A nod to the beloved Old Fashioned, this upgraded version keeps everything dads love—rich whiskey, a touch of sweetness, and a citrus twist—but adds an unexpected layer of complexity with smoked ice. It’s selected for the dad who respects tradition but isn’t afraid of a little innovation in his glass.

The flavor journey here is layered. As the smoked ice gradually melts, it imparts subtle campfire notes that blend beautifully with the natural caramel and vanilla of the whiskey. There’s still the familiar balance of bitter and sweet, but now with a slow-evolving smokiness that enhances every sip.

To serve, make the smoked ice ahead using a smoking gun or a quick infusion over wood chips. Pour the cocktail over a large smoked cube in a lowball glass, garnish with an orange peel, and let it sit a moment—just enough time for the story about “that one fishing trip” to begin.

2. Boulevardier

The Boulevardier is a whiskey lover’s answer to the Negroni—a cocktail that’s as bold as it is balanced. It earns its place on this list for dads who prefer spirit-forward drinks with a touch of elegance and aren’t shy about a hint of bitterness.

Flavor-wise, it’s rich and robust. The bourbon or rye whiskey adds warmth and spice, the sweet vermouth brings smooth, herbal depth, and the Campari cuts through with a sharp, slightly bitter citrus note. It’s a cocktail that opens up with each sip, inviting slow appreciation.

Serve it in a rocks glass over a large cube, garnished with a thick orange peel. For a luxe touch, consider aging a batch in a mini barrel for a few weeks—ideal for the dad who enjoys DIY projects almost as much as he enjoys his evening pour.

3. Whiskey Smash

The Whiskey Smash is chosen for dads who like their cocktails with a little punch and a lot of refreshment. It’s less buttoned-up than a Mint Julep and more spirited than a simple whiskey sour. This cocktail bridges the gap between citrusy freshness and whiskey-forward depth, making it a perfect pick for a relaxed Father’s Day afternoon.

Its flavor is bright and herbal, thanks to muddled mint and fresh lemon, yet grounded by the warm, oaky character of bourbon or rye. The balance of sweet and sour keeps it lively, and the fresh ingredients make it feel a touch lighter than your average whiskey drink.

Best served over crushed ice in a sturdy rocks glass, the Whiskey Smash practically begs to be enjoyed outside—preferably next to a grill, a stack of ribs, and a dad in full barbecue mode. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and let the afternoon unfold.

Innovative and Flavorful Creations

For the dads who’ve tried it all and still want more, these drinks push boundaries. They combine unconventional ingredients, global influences, and modern techniques to create cocktails that surprise and impress. These are for the fathers who appreciate craftsmanship, creativity, and a little adventure in every sip.

4. Sea Legs (Peated-Whisky & Almond)

Sea Legs is a daring drink built for dads who enjoy the boldness of peated Scotch but want something beyond the standard neat pour. The almond addition adds a layer of richness and softness that tempers the smoky intensity, creating a cocktail that’s both striking and smooth.

The flavor opens with a smoky, almost maritime character from the whisky, followed by a subtle nutty sweetness from orgeat or almond liqueur. There’s a depth here that hints at wood, salt, and spice—all rounded out with a creamy mouthfeel that lingers long after the last sip.

Serve it in a coupe or rocks glass, depending on whether it’s shaken or stirred. Garnish minimally—maybe a twist of lemon or nothing at all. This is a drink that speaks volumes without needing to shout, much like the dad who appreciates its quiet complexity.

5. Pandan Highball

The Pandan Highball is for the dad who’s curious, cultured, and a little adventurous. Pandan—a fragrant tropical plant often used in Southeast Asian desserts—brings a uniquely aromatic touch that transforms a simple highball into something elegant and unexpected. It’s the kind of drink that gets a double-take and a “What’s in this?” at first sip.

Flavor-wise, it’s light, grassy, and subtly sweet with a vanilla-like note that melds beautifully with the clean bite of a dry whiskey or rum. The bubbles from the soda water lift the pandan aroma, making each sip refreshing and intriguing. It’s exotic without being overwhelming—delicate yet full of personality.

Serve it tall over ice in a highball glass, with a pandan leaf curled inside or a lime wheel on the rim. This one’s made for warm evenings, open windows, and conversations that veer unexpectedly into dad’s favorite offbeat facts and travel stories.

6. Smoked Ginger Mule

This twist on the classic Mule is fiery, smoky, and a little rebellious—just like the dad who prefers it. By introducing smoked elements—be it smoked ginger syrup, mezcal-infused ginger beer, or a splash of peated spirit—this cocktail transforms into a bold, flavorful beast that still maintains its refreshing roots.

On the palate, you get the spicy snap of ginger followed by an undercurrent of smoke that feels earthy and grounding. The citrus provides the brightness you expect, but the lingering heat and haze make it feel far more sophisticated than its Moscow cousin.

Best served in a classic copper mug or a dark rocks glass to complement the smoky aesthetic. Garnish with a candied ginger slice or a scorched orange peel. Ideal for dads who enjoy fire pits, smoky barbecues, or have a flair for turning the ordinary into something memorable.

Beer-Inspired and Sessionable Drinks

Not every great Father’s Day drink needs to be high-proof or high-maintenance. These beer-based cocktails are laid-back, approachable, and perfect for an afternoon spent by the grill or watching the game. They’re low on effort but high on flavor—ideal for the dad who enjoys good beer with just a little twist.

7. Dad’s Day Michelada

The Michelada is a no-brainer for the dad who likes his beer with a little spice and a lot of attitude. It’s essentially a Bloody Mary made with lager, offering a savory, briny profile that’s as satisfying as it is thirst-quenching. Think of it as beer’s answer to the hangover cure—or a bold opener for a celebratory brunch.

Flavor-wise, it’s complex and tangy, with layers of tomato, lime, hot sauce, and Worcestershire (or soy sauce, depending on the style). The lager adds crispness and carbonation, keeping everything lively and drinkable. It’s earthy, spicy, and endlessly customizable to suit your dad’s heat tolerance.

Serve in a chilled pint glass with a salted or Tajín-rimmed edge. Garnish with a lime wedge, maybe even a spicy pickle or beef jerky if you’re feeling festive. It’s the kind of drink that turns casual sipping into a whole event.

8. Stout Old Fashioned

For the dad who appreciates a dark, malty beer and also loves his whiskey neat, the Stout Old Fashioned is a smart crossover. This drink marries the richness of a stout beer with the structured backbone of an Old Fashioned, giving it a roasted, chocolaty undertone that complements rather than competes.

The flavor is robust—think coffee, cocoa, caramel, and dark fruit, all pulled together by a touch of bitters and a whisper of citrus. The stout acts as a mellowing agent, softening the sharp edges of the whiskey and adding an unorthodox depth that feels just right for a cool evening.

Serve over a large ice cube in a lowball glass, garnished with an orange peel or a cherry. It’s a fireside drink—even better if your dad’s a fan of bourbon-barrel-aged beers or a connoisseur of stout varieties.

9. Session Shandy

Sometimes all dad wants is something cold, crisp, and easy to enjoy while flipping burgers or catching up with friends. The Session Shandy is exactly that—equal parts light beer and lemonade (or lemon soda), creating a low-ABV cocktail that refreshes without overwhelming.

Its flavor is bright and citrus-forward with a malty undercurrent. It’s not complex or intense—it’s a feel-good drink that’s built for sipping over a long afternoon, ideally with sunglasses on and no to-do list in sight.

Serve in a tall, frosty glass, optionally garnished with a lemon wedge or sprig of thyme for a hint of flair. This one’s about ease, approachability, and laid-back vibes—just like Dad on his best day.

Coffee-Infused and After-Dinner Delights

For the dad who prefers bold flavors and a smooth finish, these cocktails are the perfect way to cap off Father’s Day. Whether he’s a cold brew fanatic or simply enjoys sipping something rich after dinner, these drinks deliver caffeine-kissed complexity and slow-sipping satisfaction.

10. Irish Coffee – Cold Brew Edition

This modern spin on a classic pays homage to the original Irish Coffee while upgrading it for warmer weather and contemporary tastes. Cold brew replaces hot coffee, making it an ideal drink for dads who love a caffeine kick but don’t want the heat. It’s a chill twist that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

The flavor is smooth and rich, with deep notes of roasted coffee mellowed by a touch of brown sugar and lifted by the warm, spicy character of Irish whiskey. A layer of lightly whipped cream adds a silky contrast, making each sip a creamy, boozy dream.

Serve in a rocks glass or stemmed coffee goblet with cold brew, whiskey, and sweetener shaken and poured over ice. Float the cream on top and garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa or nutmeg. Best enjoyed in a patio chair, newspaper in hand, with the late afternoon sun overhead.

11. Japanese Slipper Redux

Originally a sweet, neon-colored cocktail from the 1980s, the Japanese Slipper gets a grown-up makeover here—less candy, more class. This version balances melon liqueur with citrus and a dash of herbal or umami-rich modifiers (like shiso syrup or a touch of matcha), creating a nuanced and unexpected drink for the adventurous dad.

Its flavor is a mix of crisp citrus, melon sweetness, and green, earthy undertones. The result is bright and elegant without being overly sweet, offering something light and complex that works just as well before dinner as it does after.

Serve up in a chilled coupe glass, garnished with a lemon twist or edible flower. It’s a conversation-starter of a cocktail—perfect for the dad who enjoys trying something a little outside the usual playbook.

Rye and Bourbon-Based Favorites

For many dads, rye and bourbon are the go-to spirits—robust, versatile, and full of character. These cocktails take that familiar base and build on it with intriguing ingredients and techniques, creating drinks that are both comforting and surprising. This is the category for the dad who knows his whiskey and appreciates when it’s used well.

12. Pennsylvania Rye Julep

This regional twist on the classic Mint Julep swaps in peppery Pennsylvania rye for the traditional bourbon, giving the drink a spicier backbone and a sharper finish. It’s a bold take on a Southern staple that pays homage to America’s rye whiskey heritage.

The flavor is herbaceous and bright up front, thanks to fresh mint, but finishes with that telltale rye spice and warmth. It’s less sweet than its Kentucky cousin, making it more refreshing and more complex—perfect for sipping slowly as the day cools down.

Serve over crushed ice in a silver or heavy rocks glass. Garnish with a large bouquet of mint and, if you like, a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the kind of drink that looks as sharp as it tastes.

13. Barrel-Aged Negroni

This is for the dad who loves a Negroni but wants something with a little extra depth and roundness. A barrel-aged version softens the bitter edges and adds subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toast from the wood. It’s an ideal blend of sharp and smooth—just like a good conversation with dad.

The aged character deepens the complexity, rounding out the Campari’s bitterness and allowing the sweet vermouth and whiskey to meld into something richer and more cohesive. It’s still very much a Negroni, just evolved.

Serve it neat or over a large ice cube in a rocks glass, garnished with an orange peel. Bonus points if you make a batch and age it yourself—something dad can appreciate as both a drink and a project.

14. Smoked Pineapple Rum Old Fashioned

This tropical riff on the Old Fashioned brings a surprising blend of sweetness and smoke to the table. Smoked pineapple gives the cocktail a juicy, slightly caramelized fruitiness, while a base of dark rum or spiced bourbon keeps it grounded and robust.

The drink is lush and layered—smoky, sweet, and a little tangy with a toasty finish. It’s familiar in structure but exotic in flavor, making it a standout for dads who enjoy big flavors and bold profiles.

Serve over a large ice cube in a rocks glass, garnished with a charred pineapple wedge or a twist of lime. It’s excellent for slow sipping, especially when the night starts to settle in.

15. Smoked Maple Bourbon Sour

Maple syrup and bourbon are a natural pair, and this cocktail ties them together with a whisper of smoke and a citrus bite. It’s rich and slightly sweet, with enough acidity to keep things balanced—a perfect Father’s Day evening sipper.

On the palate, it delivers smooth bourbon warmth, a velvety hint of maple, and a citrusy brightness that lifts the drink. A touch of smoked salt or a smoky rinse adds dimension, turning it into something cozy yet elevated.

Serve shaken and strained into a coupe or rocks glass, garnished with a thin orange wheel or rosemary sprig. If your dad enjoys smoked meats, flannel shirts, and outdoor fires, this drink was made for him.

Sophisticated Sippers

These cocktails are smooth, smart, and made for slow savoring. They’re ideal for dads who appreciate complexity and subtlety in their drinks—who might take a little longer to finish a pour, not because they’re slow, but because they’re appreciating every nuance. These are the kind of drinks that invite quiet reflection or a good conversation.

16. Cigar Box Manhattan

The Cigar Box Manhattan is built for the dad who enjoys his whiskey with a side of depth and distinction. This variation infuses a traditional Manhattan with tobacco or cedar-like notes—either through barrel-aging, a rinse, or the use of tobacco bitters—bringing a rich, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with, yes, an actual cigar.

Flavor-wise, it’s bold and warming, with spice from the rye, sweetness from the vermouth, and a distinct, woodsy finish that evokes a humidor or leather chair. It’s strong, classic, and uncompromising—like a vintage watch or a well-worn leather jacket.

Serve stirred, not shaken, in a coupe or Nick & Nora glass, garnished with a Luxardo cherry. This is a late-evening drink for the dad who enjoys quiet power and timeless elegance.

17. Honeyed Rye Highball

A highball with heart, this cocktail combines rye whiskey’s spicy character with the mellow sweetness of honey, topped off with chilled soda water for a crisp, effervescent finish. It’s simple yet refined—built for refreshment without sacrificing sophistication.

On the palate, you get rye’s signature edge softened by floral honey, followed by a clean, sparkling lift from the soda. It’s understated but nuanced, making it perfect for the dad who doesn’t need flash to make a statement.

Serve in a tall Collins or highball glass over clear ice, garnished with a lemon twist or even a sprig of thyme. This is the drink for toasts, quiet evenings, and everything in between.

Conclusion

Father’s Day isn’t about the fanciest gift or the flashiest celebration—it’s about honoring the guy who’s been there through thick and thin with something that feels thoughtful and personal. Whether your dad prefers smoky and bold or fresh and fizzy, there’s a drink on this list that suits his style.

These 17 dad-approved cocktails go beyond the basics, offering creative twists, complex flavors, and just enough story behind each one to spark a memorable moment. So shake (or stir) something up, raise a glass, and toast to the dads, stepdads, grandpas, mentors, and father figures who make life a little stronger—and a whole lot better.

Cheers to Dad. 🥃Sophisticated Sippers