Bars are downsizing the cocktail, redesigning it as a cheaper, snappier or ‘starter’ drink

When it comes to cocktails, a new word has been added to the traditional order: as well as “shaken” or “stirred”, drinkers are increasingly asking that their martini be “small”.

Rather than the customary martini serving, which starts from 150ml upwards, British bars are serving mini versions, starting from as little as 30ml, as drinkers aim to keep a clearer head and spend less.