Ever found yourself staring at a half-empty bottle of gin, a lonely lemon in the fridge, and wondering if you could whip up something more exciting than a basic G&T? If you’re like me, your home bar starts with good intentions—a fancy bitters here, a craft syrup there—but ends up as a puzzle of mismatched ingredients. That’s where the Drinkable app comes in, turning your random liquor cabinet into a mixologist’s playground. This free mobile app helps you discover and master cocktail recipes based on what you already have on hand, no last-minute store runs required. And the best part? It works completely offline, so whether you’re at a remote cabin or just avoiding data overage, you’re covered.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes Drinkable a must-have for amateur bartenders, how to get the most out of it, and some pro tips to elevate your home cocktail game. Think of it as your personal cheat sheet to impressing friends at your next gathering—or just treating yourself after a long day.
What Is the Drinkable App?
Drinkable is an open-source app designed to simplify cocktail creation by matching recipes to your available ingredients. Developed by MOIMOB and available on both iOS and Android, it’s built with a focus on usability and accessibility. Unlike bloated apps that bombard you with ads or paywalls, Drinkable is totally free with no in-app purchases. It boasts over 150 cocktail recipes, plus shots, mocktails, and even ingredient breakdowns, covering classics like Margaritas and Old Fashioneds to more adventurous mixes.
The app’s core magic lies in its inventory system: You input what you have (spirits, mixers, fruits, etc.), and it instantly filters recipes you can make right now. It’s also multilingual, supporting languages from English to Korean, and handles both imperial and metric measurements automatically. If you’re tech-savvy, you can even check out the source code on GitHub and contribute your own recipes or translations.
Key Features That Make Drinkable Stand Out
What sets Drinkable apart from other cocktail apps like Cocktail Flow or Mixel? It’s all about practicality. Here’s a breakdown of its standout features:
- Ingredient-Based Search and Filtering: Head to the Ingredients tab and check off what you have. The app then highlights recipes with checkmarks next to matching items. Filter to see only drinks you can make immediately—no more scrolling through impossible options.
- Near-Miss Suggestions: This is a game-changer. Below your makeable drinks, Drinkable lists cocktails you’re just one or two ingredients away from. It’s perfect for planning your next grocery run without feeling overwhelmed. For example, if you have vodka and cranberry but no lime, it’ll suggest a Cosmopolitan and note what’s missing.
- Offline Functionality: Everything works without internet. Download once, and you’re set for beach trips or power outages. This beats apps that rely on cloud data and leave you high and dry.
- Customizable Recipes: Explore by category (e.g., classics, tropical), and add your own twists. The app includes images for most cocktails, helping you visualize the final product—portrait or landscape mode for easy viewing.
- Units Conversion: Whether you’re team ounces or milliliters, it switches seamlessly, avoiding measurement mishaps.
Compared to paid apps like Cocktail Party (which costs $3.99 but offers substitutions), Drinkable keeps it simple and free, making it ideal for beginners.
How to Get Started with Drinkable
Downloading and setting up is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Install the App: Grab it from the App Store for iOS or Google Play for Android. It’s lightweight and installs quickly.
- Build Your Inventory: Open the app and go to the Ingredients section. Scroll through the 150+ options (from absinthe to zest) and tap to add what you have. Pro tip: Do a quick audit of your pantry first—don’t forget basics like sugar or ice.
- Browse Recipes: Switch to the Recipes tab. Use the filter to show only makeable drinks. Tap one for details: ingredients list, steps, and even garnish ideas.
- Experiment: Try a recipe, then rate it or note variations. If you’re missing something, add it to your shopping list directly in the app.
- Update Regularly: Since it’s open-source, check for updates on GitHub for new recipes or features. The latest version (v1.58.1 as of September 2025) added more languages and bug fixes.
Tips for Mastering Cocktails with Drinkable
To really level up, here are some hacks I’ve picked up:
- Stock Smart: Use the near-miss feature to build a versatile bar. Focus on multi-use ingredients like lemons (for sours), simple syrup (easy to make at home), and versatile spirits like vodka or rum.
- Batch for Parties: Filter for batchable recipes. Drinkable includes options for punches or large serves—scale up measurements and prep ahead.
- Mocktail Mode: Not drinking? It has non-alcoholic options. Swap spirits for sodas or juices to keep things inclusive.
- Pair with Tools: Combine with a basic bar set (shaker, jigger). Apps like this shine when you have the hardware—check out affordable kits on Amazon.
- Learn as You Go: Each recipe includes mixing techniques. Over time, you’ll master shaking vs. stirring, building confidence for custom creations.
If you hit a snag, the community on Reddit’s r/cocktails often discusses apps like this—search for “Drinkable app” for user reviews.
Pros, Cons, and Alternatives
Pros:
- Free and ad-free.
- Offline access.
- Intuitive interface for beginners.
- Helps reduce waste by using what you have.
Cons:
- Limited to 150+ recipes (fewer than some premium apps).
- No advanced features like substitutions or user-submitted content.
- Relies on manual input—no barcode scanning.
If Drinkable doesn’t cut it, try Cocktail Flow for a prettier interface and more recipes (free with premium upgrades), or Cocktail Party for substitution smarts. For something more comprehensive, check out Perfect Drink with its smart scale integration.
Why Drinkable Deserves a Spot on Your Phone
In a world of overcomplicated apps, Drinkable keeps it refreshingly simple: Master cocktails without the fuss. Whether you’re a novice shaking your first Martini or a pro experimenting with infusions, it empowers you to create with confidence. Download it today, raid your fridge, and toast to better home bartending. Cheers!
