Sunday night crowds in Lower Manhattan are increasingly swapping pricey cocktails for slim, four-ounce cans bought at corner stores. These pre-mixed drinks, many under $3, have become a fixture at outdoor gatherings and casual meetups. Vendors in the East Village report higher sales of brands like Cutwater and Fishers Island Lemonade since late July.
Cost is a clear driver. With bar tabs running high—often $18 per drink—college students and young professionals are looking for alternatives. Some say these cans are a way to keep up with friends at rooftop parties without overspending. "It's an easy grab before the park," said Maya, 23, waiting in line at a bodega near Tompkins Square Park on Friday evening.
The trend runs counter to the 'sober-curious' image often associated with Gen Z. While non-alcoholic beers and mocktails still have a presence, the convenience of a potent, portable drink appears to be winning out at summer gatherings. Many cans contain 10% alcohol or more, making them stronger than most beer and even some traditional cocktails.
Bodega owners are adapting. Some now stock refrigerated displays with a wider range of small-format cocktails, placing them near energy drinks and seltzers. The move reflects shifting demand during late-night hours and weekend afternoons, when customers ask for single-serve options to take to the park or a friend's apartment.
As summer continues and outdoor events remain popular, the popularity of these small canned cocktails is expected to remain steady. Retailers are watching to see if the trend carries into the fall semester and beyond.