Vodka tonic, gin and tonic, old news. Somehow we've never thought to add rum to this classic combination. A super easy cocktail with a light refreshing flavor. Perfect if you're

looking for something simple, but new.

Get the recipe at New York Times Cooking.

Veggies and margaritas may not sound like a winning combo, but the Cucumber Margarita is insanely fresh. The cucumber flavor compliments the lime beautifully. Plus, you can say

you got a serving of vegetables in at happy hour.

Adding cherry brandy and a brandy soaked cherry, this Manhattan Transfer adds a little sweetness to this old school drink. Brandy soaked cherries alone make this worth ordering.

A gimlet is a super overlooked drink and gin is making a real comeback lately. This Cranberry Gimlet adds cranberry juice to the gin and lime for a

little extra flavor and a sickening red color.

If you wanna feel like a southern belle imbibing beverages on your veranda, you have to go with this super old school favorite. The Sweet Tea Mint Julep

combines two favorite drinks of the south. If you're looking to change up your bourbon game, this is a must try.

Adding basil gives this Bloody Mary a little bit of Italian flare, which is never a bad thing.

A little carton of chocolate milk will never be the same. This might sound weird, but it's shockingly good. For the Off-White Russian, you just pour the vodka

into the milk carton and your done. Fewer glasses to clean at the end of the night is a big time plus.

Fancy up your mojito with some champagne and you've got an Old Cuban. Adding some bubbles improves any drink and you'll look totally not basic with your new favorite

cocktail.

Jager shots are so over. You're not 21 anymore and it's not so cute. But that doesn't mean you have to leave that licorice spirit behind. The Surfer

on Acid combines Jager with coconut rum and pineapple juice for a tropical twist.

Instead of updating a classic cocktail, this one updates a classic kid's drink. Shirley Temple's were always the bomb, so when you add vanilla vodka and moonshine, this might become

your go-to. Dirty Shirley's will be a new favorite, but remember there's a big kick under all that awesome grenadine.