Best Substitutes for Carbonated Water

Out of Carbonated Water? Here are the best alternatives that work in cocktail recipes.

Carbonated Water — mixer used in cocktails

Original Ingredient

Carbonated Water

Mixer Clean, neutral effervescence with subtle mineral character. Lifts and brightens cocktails without adding flavor. Crisp, palate-cleansing carbonation with a neutral finish.

Recommended Substitutes

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Club soda

Use as a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted.

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Soda Water

Use as a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted.

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Tonic water

Use as a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted.

General Substitution Tips

  • Match the alcohol level: a 40% spirit needs a similarly strong replacement or adjust volume.
  • For liqueurs, dilute spirits + simple syrup can replicate sweetness and proof.
  • Citrus substitutions: lemon and lime are mostly interchangeable at a 1:1 ratio.
  • For bitters, Angostura is the most neutral substitute for most other aromatic bitters.