Mixing drinks and fiction might not be the first pairing that comes to mind, but it’s catching on fast. All over the country, readers are putting down their mugs and picking up martinis as they gather for stories and sips. Cocktail-themed book clubs bring a playful energy to the usual book discussion, where literary talk meets happy hour.
Book clubs are a much-loved tradition where friends gather to discuss a book. There are often snacks and wine, and the focus is on making space for thoughtful conversation about the book. For many readers, it’s a relaxed way to enjoy a good book while trying something new in their glass. But cocktails are replacing wine in a fun and tasty twist on this literary tradition.
How it works
Cocktail-themed book clubs combine reading and drinking into one experience. A Book Riot article explained that sometimes members meet at local breweries, bars or homes to share their thoughts on a chosen book. The setting or theme might inspire the drink of the night, or it might just be the host’s favorite.
A space for connection
These hybrid gatherings appeal to more than just avid readers. They draw in people looking for connection, conversation and a fresh way to explore literature. The cocktail angle helps lighten the mood and makes literary analysis feel less formal.
When drinks and discussion come together, it feels more like a night out than a formal book club meeting. That shift in tone helps more people feel welcome at the table. It creates a space where people can speak up without worrying about getting every plot point right, adhering to the goal to enjoy, respond and share what resonated, all with a drink in hand. Snacks are optional, but deviled eggs and spicy chicken dip go well with cocktails.
The role of social media
Social media has helped boost the visibility of cocktail-themed book clubs. Photos of curated drinks, books and themed tablescapes attract new members and spark conversation. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become central to the trend’s rise. The Boozy Book Club has its own website and active Instagram presence where they share book picks, themed cocktails and snapshots of recent gatherings. They offer book lovers a creative way to show off their latest reads and pours — the kind of digital footprint that not only engages current members but also draws in new ones.
Going virtual
Online cocktail-themed book clubs offer the same relaxed vibe, but with added accessibility. Members can join from different cities or even countries. One example is Coffee, Cocktails & Conversations, a virtual book club hosted through Goodreads. It brings together readers who enjoy sharing thoughts on books and cocktails in a flexible, online space. Another group, One Drink Book Club, also connects readers through monthly meetups and online engagement. Their focus is on enjoying just one drink and one book at a time — low-pressure, social and inviting.
Participants often mix the featured cocktails at home and bring their own twist to their drinks. This virtual format has helped clubs grow without losing their personality, which allows for greater creativity as members experiment with ingredients based on what they have on hand.
A toast to new chapters
Cocktail-themed book clubs offer a lighter, more social spin on the traditional reading group. They welcome both casual readers and dedicated bibliophiles, making room for conversation, creativity and connection. What might start as a themed drink or a clever book pairing often grows into a regular gathering that readers look forward to. As these clubs continue to evolve, they show how the simple act of mixing drinks and fiction can reshape how people share stories.
Mandy Applegate is the creator behind Splash of Taste and seven other high-profile food and travel blogs. She’s also co-founder of Food Drink Life Inc., the unique and highly rewarding collaborative blogger project. Her articles appear frequently on major online news sites, and she always has her eyes open to spot the next big trend.