10 Best Cocktail Books 2025 in the United States

Puncheons and Flagons: The Official Dungeons & Dragons Cocktail Book is a fun and unique choice for fans of the Dungeons & Dragons game who want to explore creative cocktail and mocktail recipes. With 192 pages, it offers a solid amount of content likely filled with imaginative drink ideas inspired by the game’s fantasy world. The book’s size makes it a handy addition to your home bar or bookshelf.

The recipe variety is expected to focus on themed drinks, which is a highlight for enthusiasts but could feel limited if you’re looking for more classic or broad cocktail options. Special features like mocktail recipes add versatility for those avoiding alcohol.

This book suits anyone who enjoys themed cocktails and wants a creative twist on their drink-making, especially if they have an interest in fantasy role-playing games.

The Big Book of Bourbon Cocktails offers a solid collection of 100 bourbon-based drink recipes, making it a good choice for bourbon enthusiasts looking to expand their cocktail repertoire. With 170 pages, the book provides a nice range of classic and creative drinks, which means you'll find both well-known and more unique options to try. The size (8 x 8 inches) and weight make it comfortable to handle and store, fitting well on most kitchen shelves.

The book is illustrated, though specific details about the number and quality of these illustrations are not emphasized. This book mainly serves as a straightforward recipe guide without special features like tips, history, or bartending techniques.

For those who enjoy bourbon and want a focused, easy-to-use cocktail book, this is a helpful addition. Those seeking more in-depth information, detailed visuals, or broader cocktail knowledge may find it somewhat basic.

The New York Times Essential Book of Cocktails (Second Edition) is a well-rounded cocktail book featuring an extensive collection of over 400 classic drink recipes. With 624 pages in a sturdy hardcover format, it serves as a substantial resource for anyone interested in mixing drinks, from beginners to more experienced home bartenders. The book’s size is comfortable enough to handle in a kitchen or bar setting without being too bulky.

Its deep content and variety of recipes provide plenty of options, from traditional cocktails to timeless favorites. The author expertise is implied through the reputable source, suggesting reliable and well-tested recipes paired with insightful commentary.

This book suits those who appreciate classic cocktails and want a dependable, thorough guide to building and enjoying a home bar.