Pub Fridays have been an office staple for the longest time, and there's no reason that we can't still recreate it in our own homes (or the park on those rare British summer days) just because the pubs are open again. To truly appreciate the power that comes with Friday night, opt for a symbolic drink after work — whether that's a cocktail or mocktail — to get you primed and ready for the weekend ahead. While we're all struggling to book our favourite after-work pubs or fancy bars getting the perfect cocktail mixed up [1] for us, the temptation to slink off to our fridge and finish off last week's vinegary bottle of wine is much too strong.
But there is another way. The canned cocktail [2] has long been reserved for summer evenings in parks or family barbecues, and at last, that time has finally come. Premixed cocktails (whether it be a can, a box, or even a DIY [3] version) are best enjoyed whatever the weather, and whether it's vodka, CBD, or non-alcoholic gin that takes your fancy, there's something out there for everyone.
We've done the hard work of trying them all out and rounded up the best of the best for your drinking pleasure. Have a scroll through to find out what's on our list, and what soon could be on yours.
Naughty Water Boozy Seltzers
It's official: seltzers are in. A refreshing combination of vodka and sparkling water, these Naughty Water Boozy Seltzers [4] (£8.99 for four cans) are a calorie-friendly option for when wine and copious amounts of cocktails aren't on the cards (it's a rare occasion, we know, but trust us on this one).
Miami Cocktail Co. Spritzes
Miami Cocktail Company creates a range of wine-based spritzes, perfect for that after-work clock-off on a Friday. There may not be much separating your weekend from your five-day work week, but if there's a canned cocktail at the end of that tunnel, a Miami Cocktail [5] (£3 for a can) is the one to go for. Inspired by Miami Beach, each drink is made up of only clean ingredients with a vegan-friendly formula and BPA-free cans.
Seedlip Nonalcoholic Spirits
Nonalcoholic cocktails are the best way to enjoy that Friday-night feeling without the need for actual alcohol. If gin and tonics are your guilty pleasure, then look no further, because Seedlip has premixed these nonalcoholic beverages [6] (£28 for 12 cans) for all to enjoy.
NIO Cocktails
We've all heard of letter-box flowers, but letter-box cocktails are now the latest and greatest invention. Not only are they perfect for sending a little pick-me-up over to a loved one, but they're even better for storing in your fridge all week in preparation for that Friday feeling. Available in a range of different themes, this NIO Cocktails Best Seller Box [7] (£39) is the perfect introduction to your new favourite drinks.
Topo Chico Hard Seltzers
Like we said before, seltzers are in. Originally from Mexico, the sparkling water brand Topo Chico has just unveiled its alcoholic range. Only landing in the UK this year, the drink is available in three fun flavours: Cherry Acai (by far the best one, if I do say so myself), Tangy Lemon Lime, and Tropical Mango. All flavours of Topo Chico Hard Seltzer [8] (£7 for four cans) are available for purchase from Sainsbury's.
Trip CBD Drinks
Another nonalcoholic option, and one for calmer nights in, Trip CBD drinks [9] (£18 for six cans) make the perfect alternative. Available in three flavours, Elderflower Mint (my recommendation), Lemon Basil, and Peach Ginger, alongside a cold-brew coffee version, they're a totally guilt-free addition to your Friday-night fridge.
Kocktail Monthly Box Cocktails
Cocktail boxes are the best way to try a variety of different flavours, and this subscription service from Kocktail makes it very easy to do. Complete with four fresh cocktails, each monthly box [10] (£39) is curated by an award-winning mixologist and contains garnish and recipe cards. What's not to love?
Tappd Cocktails
Tappd Cocktails is a family-run business that launched back in 2019, with the sole aim of being able to deliver freshly mixed cocktails to your door. Available as single-flavour packs of six or in this mixed pack of six bestsellers [11] (£19.99), the bottles features craft spirits and are gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Yum!
The Cocktail Social's Premixed Cocktails
If individual cans aren't your thing and sharing your Friday night comes naturally to you, look no further. London-based company The Cocktail Social [12] creates 500-millilitre bottles of premixed cocktails [13] (£30) with delivery included. Choose from classic mojitos and espresso martinis, or if you fancy something a little different, try their signature bee's knees. For that something extra, The Cocktail Social also hosts virtual cocktail masterclasses. What. A. Treat.
Boxtails
This letterbox-sized selection comes from premixed cocktail company Boxtails. Perfect for outdoor picnics and meeting up with friends in the park, their Blockbusters Selection Box [14] (£55) contains a selection of espresso martinis, passionfruit martinis, and blood orange mojitos.
Funkin Hard Seltzers
There's no such thing as too many seltzers, simply because they are incredibly refreshing, low calorie, and come with about 50% less guilt than a regular cocktail. These Funkin Hard Seltzers [15] (£2.50) come in three sweet flavours, including passion and mango, strawberry and raspberry, and a classic lemon and lime.
Clean Co. Cocktails
If low alcohol is the vibe this summer, then look no further. Clean Co. have unveiled their Clean Rum and Cola [16] (£20) and Clean Gin and Tonic cans, which are only 0.5% ABV and low sugar, and they still taste great.
Echo Falls Rosé Blueberry & Hibiscus Seltzer
Ever heard of a rosé seltzer? Well, now you have. The geniuses behind popular wine brand Echo Falls have just released a range of seltzers made with rosé and sparkling water. The first iteration is their Echo Falls Rosé Blueberry & Hibiscus Seltzer [17] (£2), with Strawberry & Pink Pepper, and Raspberry, Lychee & Rose still to come.
Liberation Cocktails
The time for liberation is here, and that's not just because pubs, restaurants, and shops are open and the sun is out (mostly). It's also because Liberation Cocktails has released a new range, including the ever-popular Pisco Sour [18] (£27 for a pack of 6) and some other pretty impressive flavours.
Punchy Cocktails
If aesthetics are your thing, then Punchy Cocktails will be too. Available in three sweet flavours, Punchy Cocktails [19] (£12) are an Instagrammable and low-alcohol alternative to your favourite drinks. Whether it's yuzu and cucumber, peach and ginger, or blood orange and cardamom that takes your fancy, excitement awaits.
Lockdown Liquor
If you haven't seen Lockdown Liquor's Picante [20] (£13) all over Instagram this last year, then where have you been? Aside from the perfectly mixed tequila-based cocktail, the brand has a selection of aesthetically pleasing blends available to purchase in three handy sizes.