Australian entertainment group Kingpin has revealed the most popular drinks trends in 2023 at its venues across the nation.

Kingpin venues offer a wide range of activities, including bowling, laser tag, arcade games, pool tables, escape rooms and karaoke rooms, alongside fully licensed bars.

Kingpin Chief Operations Officer Belinda Falzon said its venues had upped their focus on cocktail culture after hosting Australia’s first-ever immersive cocktail exhibition in March this year to celebrate the launch of Kingpin’s new cocktail offerings.

Named The Art of Mixology, the exhibition took guests on a sensory journey through six rooms designed by six different artists, each inspired by a cocktail. 

“Following the success of our Art of Mixology event earlier this year, we’re excited to witness the growing appreciation for inventive cocktails,” Falzon said.

“It’s not just about a drink anymore; it’s about creating an experience, and we’re committed to delivering on that promise.”

The biggest selling cocktails

The favourite cocktail among Kingpin guests for 2023 was the Tricked Out Long Island (pictured main), made with Avosh Bottlebrush Honey Vodka, Tanqueray Ten gin, Don Julio Blanco tequila, Pampero Especial rum, blackcurrant and lemon.

“At Kingpin, we believe the Tricked Out Long Island’s popularity stems from its fusion of tradition and innovation. Inspired by the classic Long Island Iced Tea, our mixologists pushed the boundaries, infusing it with unexpected flavours and top-shelf spirits,” Falzon said.

“The drink offers a refreshing twist on a beloved classic.”

Frozen margaritas also emerged as the rising star hit among Kingpin guests, with Watermelon proving to be the most beloved flavour. 

That’s not surprising following Google Trends revealing last week that the top trending cocktail recipe term in Australia was “Watermelon Margarita”. 

Meanwhile, when it came to the spirits that stole the spotlight in 2023, whisky, bourbon and rum were the most popular spirits across all Kingpin venues. 

Beer keeps it local

In the beer realm, Kingpin guests preferred to keep it local in 2023. Regional beers dominated each territory, with Furphy reigning supreme in Victoria, Great Northern in the Northern Territory and Queensland, and a trio of Heineken, James Squires 150 Lashes, and Hahn Super Dry sharing the honours in NSW, ACT, and South Australia.

However, the real star of the show was craft beer, with Bentspoke, Little Creatures, and Stone & Wood outpacing the traditional brews in growth.

Falzon said group and corporate bookings had shown a significant uptick in 2023, with businesses securing their spots earlier than ever. The two weeks leading up to Christmas, especially December 15, were the biggest corporate events dates of the year.