What does "neat" mean when ordering a drink?

When ordering a drink "neat," it refers to a spirit served straight from the bottle without any ice or mixers. This means the drink is poured directly into a glass at room temperature, allowing the full flavor and character of the spirit to be enjoyed without any alterations.

Understanding this term is important for bartenders, as it highlights a guest's preference for a pure tasting experience. When a customer requests a neat drink, they’re often looking to savor the nuances of the spirit, whether it’s whiskey, rum, or another type of liquor. This differs significantly from serving drinks with ice, which would chill the beverage and dilute it as the ice melts, or any cocktails that involve blending or garnishing, as these include additional ingredients and flavors.