Category: Movie & TV Drinks

Quest Type: Cocktail Guide
Mana Cost: $$ (Mid-tier liquor recommended, don’t cheap out)
Difficulty Rating: Tutorial Level → Mid-Game Boss
Serves: 1 drink each (scale up for your D&D party)
Buffs: +25 Nostalgia, +40 80s Vibes, +15 “Stranger Things Watch Party” Energy
Debuffs: -30 Coordination After Drink #2, -50 Ability to Not Quote the Show

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The Loading Screen (Why Stranger Things Needs a Drink)

Listen, Stranger Things is the perfect show to drink to. It’s got:

• Tension (Demogorgons hunting kids)
• Mystery (What IS the Mind Flayer’s deal?)
• Nostalgia (The 80s aesthetic is chef’s kiss)
• Tragedy (RIP Bob, RIP Eddie, RIP Barb… okay mostly RIP Barb)
• Long episodes (Season 4 episodes were basically LOTR extended editions)

The show is basically designed for you to sit on your couch with your squad, crack open some drinks, and yell at the TV every time someone makes a dumb decision. “DON’T GO IN THE WOODS ALONE, WILL!” “WHY ARE YOU SPLITTING UP?!” “JUST TELL THE ADULTS, OH MY GOD!”

But here’s the thing—you can’t just drink Miller Lite while watching Stranger Things. That’s not thematically appropriate. You need drinks that MATCH the vibe. Drinks that feel like they came from Hawkins, Indiana in 1985. Drinks that Joyce Byers would make after a long day of fighting interdimensional monsters and dealing with her disaster children.

So I’ve created three cocktails, each representing a different aspect of the show. One’s visually trippy (The Upside Down). One’s sweet and surprisingly strong (Eleven’s Eggo Smash). And one’s dark and ominous (Mind Flayer Smoke Show).

These aren’t your basic “just add vodka to everything” drinks. These have LORE. These have FLAVOR. These will make your Stranger Things watch party go from “casual hangout” to “immersive experience.”

Nerd Tip: Stranger Things Season 5 is coming. Practice these drinks NOW so you’re ready for the finale. You’ll need them. The Duffer Brothers are DEFINITELY killing off at least two main characters.

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The Lore (Why These Drinks Exist)

In the Stranger Things universe, the adults are almost always drinking. Hopper’s constantly nursing a beer or whiskey. Joyce is stress-drinking wine. Murray’s whole personality is “Russian conspiracy theorist alcoholic.” Even the teens get in on it—remember Steve’s horrible “reformulated” Scoops Ahoy ice cream cocktails?

The point is: Hawkins, Indiana is a town that DRINKS. Probably because their children keep getting possessed by shadow monsters and the government keeps lying to them about everything.

These three cocktails represent the three main elements of Stranger Things:

The Upside Down = The core mystery. The alternate dimension. The thing that started it all in Season 1 when Will vanished and Eleven opened the gate.

Eleven’s Eggo Smash = The heart of the show. Eleven’s journey from lab experiment to badass psychic kid who just wants to eat waffles and be normal.

Mind Flayer Smoke Show = The big bad. The ancient evil. The thing that wants to consume our world. This drink is dark, smoky, and will mess you up if you’re not careful.

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Drink #1: The Upside Down

Difficulty Rating: Mid-Game Boss (requires layering technique)
Quest Type: Visually Stunning Showstopper
Flavor Profile: Sweet, fruity, tropical with a dark twist
ABV: ~15% (Don’t be fooled by the pretty colors)

The Inventory (Ingredients)

For the “Right Side Up” Layer:

• 2 oz Vodka (or white rum if you’re feeling tropical)
• 1 oz Blue Curaçao
• 2 oz Pineapple juice
• 1 oz Lemon juice
• Ice

For the “Upside Down” Layer:

• 1 oz Grenadine
• 0.5 oz Chambord (black raspberry liqueur)
• Splash of cranberry juice
• Optional: Black food coloring for extra darkness

Garnish:

• Edible glitter (because the Upside Down SHIMMERS, doesn’t it?)
• Fresh raspberry
• Optional: Gummy worms (for the slug-tentacle aesthetic)

The Walkthrough (Instructions)

Step 1: Create The Right Side Up (Blue Layer)

1. In a shaker with ice, combine vodka, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and lemon juice
2. Shake like you’re Eleven trying to close the gate (vigorously, with determination)
3. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice
4. Marvel at that beautiful blue color (it’s the Hawkins pool in summer)

Step 2: Create The Upside Down (Dark Layer) 5. In a separate container, mix grenadine, Chambord, and cranberry juice 6. Optional: Add 1-2 drops of black food coloring to make it REALLY ominous 7. Slowly pour this mixture over the back of a spoon held just above the blue layer 8. The dark liquid should sink to the bottom, creating a layered effect 9. You now have a drink that’s blue on top, blood-red/black on the bottom

Step 3: The Flip (This is where it gets cool) 10. Hand the drink to your friend 11. Tell them “You need to flip it to enter the Upside Down” 12. They slowly flip the glass upside down, watching the layers invert and swirl together 13. OR place a coaster on top, flip it yourself, remove the coaster 14. The colors will mix and create this eerie purple-red swirl

Step 4: Garnish and Serve 15. Add edible glitter (it’ll swirl and shimmer like Upside Down particles) 16. Garnish with raspberry and optional gummy worms 17. Serve with a straw or just sip it while contemplating interdimensional horror

The Pro-Strat (Nerd Tips)

🍹 Nerd Tip #1: The Density Trick The layering works because grenadine and Chambord are DENSE and sugary. They sink below the lighter blue layer. If your layers aren’t separating, your blue layer might be too heavy. Add a splash more pineapple juice.

🍹 Nerd Tip #2: The Flip Moment The flip is THEATRICAL. Do it when everyone’s watching. It’s like the moment Eleven flips the van in Season 1. Everyone should gasp.

🍹 Nerd Tip #3: Make it Glow Add tonic water (which glows under blacklight) to the blue layer and serve this at a party with UV lights. It’ll look INSANE. Very “particles floating in the Upside Down” vibes.

🍹 Nerd Tip #4: Batch It For a watch party, make a pitcher of each layer separately. Keep them in separate containers, then layer individual drinks as needed. Don’t pre-mix the whole thing or you lose the visual effect.

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Drink #2: Eleven’s Eggo Smash

Difficulty Rating: Tutorial Level (surprisingly simple)
Quest Type: Breakfast Drink That’ll Kick Your Ass
Flavor Profile: Sweet, maple-forward, creamy, with a bourbon punch
ABV: ~18% (This will give you psychic powers) (No it won’t)

The Inventory (Ingredients)

The Base:

• 2 oz Bourbon (use something decent—Eleven deserves better than bottom-shelf)
• 1 oz Butterscotch schnapps
• 1 oz Maple syrup (REAL maple syrup, not that corn syrup garbage)
• 2 oz Heavy cream (or oat milk if you’re dairy-free)
• 1 Egg white (for froth and texture—trust me)

The Eggo Rim:

• 1 Eggo waffle (toasted, then crumbled)
• 2 tbsp Maple sugar (or brown sugar)
• Butter (to make the rim sticky)

Garnish:

• Mini Eggo waffle (for the aesthetic)
• Whipped cream
• Maple syrup drizzle
• Optional: Powdered sugar “snow” (for that Upside Down winter vibe)

The Walkthrough (Instructions)

Step 1: Prepare The Eggo Rim

1. Toast an Eggo waffle until it’s crispy
2. Let it cool, then crumble it into fine pieces (like breadcrumbs)
3. Mix the crumbs with maple sugar on a plate
4. Rub butter around the rim of your glass (old-fashioned or rocks glass)
5. Dip the rim in the Eggo-sugar mixture
6. You now have an EDIBLE WAFFLE RIM. Eleven would approve.

Step 2: Build The Drink 7. In a shaker (no ice yet), combine bourbon, butterscotch schnapps, maple syrup, heavy cream, and egg white 8. DRY SHAKE (shake without ice) for 15-20 seconds to emulsify the egg white 9. This creates that beautiful foam on top (like the froth on Eleven’s nose when she bleeds) 10. Add ice to the shaker 11. Shake AGAIN for another 15 seconds (now we’re chilling it)

Step 3: Serve With Style 12. Strain into your Eggo-rimmed glass over fresh ice 13. The foam should sit on top like a little cloud 14. Top with whipped cream (because MORE is MORE) 15. Drizzle maple syrup in a criss-cross pattern (like the alphabet wall lights) 16. Place a mini Eggo waffle on the rim (you can buy mini waffles at most stores) 17. Dust with powdered sugar

Step 4: Consume While Channeling Psychic Energy 18. Take a sip 19. Close your eyes 20. Concentrate really hard 21. Try to move objects with your mind 22. It won’t work but at least you have a delicious drink

The Pro-Strat (Nerd Tips)

🍹 Nerd Tip #1: The Egg White Situation I KNOW some of you are side-eyeing the raw egg white. It’s safe if your eggs are fresh and stored properly. The alcohol also “cooks” it slightly. BUT if you’re squeamish, use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) instead. Same foam effect, no raw egg.

🍹 Nerd Tip #2: The Breakfast Pairing This drink is basically breakfast in a glass. Pair it with actual Eggos for the full Eleven experience. Make it a brunch drink. Your guests will think you’re a genius.

🍹 Nerd Tip #3: The Dairy-Free Version Replace heavy cream with oat milk or coconut cream. The texture changes slightly but it’s still delicious. Eleven would adapt—she’s been through worse than lactose intolerance.

🍹 Nerd Tip #4: The “Powered Up” Version Add a shot of espresso to make it an “Eleven’s Eggo Espresso Smash.” Now you’re caffeinated AND drunk. You’ll have the energy to fight Demogorgons (or at least stay awake through Season 4’s runtime).

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Drink #3: Mind Flayer Smoke Show

Difficulty Rating: End-Game Content (requires smoking technique)
Quest Type: Dark, Ominous, Showstopper
Flavor Profile: Smoky, herbal, slightly sweet, with a bitter finish
ABV: ~20% (This is the final boss of drinks)

The Inventory (Ingredients)

The Cocktail:

• 2 oz Mezcal (for that SMOKY flavor—this is crucial)
• 1 oz Activated charcoal-infused vodka (or regular vodka + food-grade charcoal)
• 0.75 oz Aperol (for bitterness and color)
• 0.75 oz Fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz Agave syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters

The Smoke Show:

• Dried rosemary sprig (or dried sage)
• Wooden smoking chips (hickory or applewood)
• OR a smoking gun (if you’re fancy)
• OR smoldering cinnamon stick (budget option)

Garnish:

• Activated charcoal dust (for the rim—food grade only!)
• Fresh rosemary sprig (SET IT ON FIRE)
• Lime wheel (charred with a torch)
• Optional: Dry ice (for MAXIMUM DRAMA)

The Walkthrough (Instructions)

Step 1: Prepare The Glass

1. Rim your rocks glass with activated charcoal dust (wet the rim first with lime)
2. The glass should look like it’s been touched by the Mind Flayer’s shadow
3. Add a large ice cube (one big cube > many small cubes for this drink)

Step 2: Build The Cocktail 4. In a shaker with ice, combine mezcal, charcoal vodka, Aperol, lime juice, agave syrup, and bitters 5. Shake like you’re trying to exorcise a possessed Will Byers (firmly but with purpose) 6. Strain into your prepared glass over the large ice cube 7. The drink should be dark red-brown with an ominous black tint from the charcoal

Step 3: The Smoke Show (CRITICAL STEP)

Option A: Smoking Gun Method 8. Use a cocktail smoking gun with hickory chips 9. Place a coaster or small plate over the top of the glass 10. Insert smoking gun hose under the plate 11. Fill the glass with smoke for 10-15 seconds 12. Remove the plate and serve immediately

Option B: Torch Method 13. Light a dried rosemary sprig on fire with a kitchen torch or lighter 14. Let it smolder for a few seconds 15. Place the glass upside down over the smoking rosemary to trap the smoke 16. Let it sit for 30 seconds 17. Flip the glass upright (smoke trapped inside) 18. Quickly pour the drink into the smoke-filled glass

Option C: Budget Method 19. Light a cinnamon stick on fire (yes, really) 20. Let it smolder and create smoke 21. Trap smoke in glass using same technique as Option B

Step 4: Garnish With DRAMA 22. Char a lime wheel with a kitchen torch until it’s blackened 23. Place it on the rim 24. Add a fresh rosemary sprig 25. Light the rosemary on FIRE as you serve it (it’ll smoke and smell incredible) 26. Optional: Add a small piece of dry ice for fog effect (DO NOT DRINK THE DRY ICE)

Step 5: Serve Ominously 27. Hand it to your friend 28. Say “The Mind Flayer sees you” in your creepiest voice 29. They drink while smoke rises from the glass 30. Everyone thinks you’re a mixology wizard

The Pro-Strat (Nerd Tips)

🍹 Nerd Tip #1: Safety First, Kids Activated charcoal is FOOD GRADE only. Don’t use charcoal briquettes from your grill. That’ll kill you. Also, it can interfere with medications, so if someone’s on prescription meds, skip the charcoal and just use dark rum or coffee liqueur for color.

🍹 Nerd Tip #2: The Smoke is THE THING The smoke is what makes this drink EPIC. Don’t skip it. If you don’t have a smoking gun or torch, literally light some herbs on fire in a safe dish and trap the smoke. Caveman method works.

🍹 Nerd Tip #3: Mezcal Selection Matters Don’t use your expensive mezcal for this. Mid-tier mezcal ($30-40 range) is perfect. The smokiness is the point. Espadín variety works great.

🍹 Nerd Tip #4: The Dry Ice Warning Dry ice looks INCREDIBLE but DO NOT let anyone ingest it. It’ll burn their mouth and esophagus. Wait until it fully evaporates before drinking. It’s JUST for the fog effect.

🍹 Nerd Tip #5: Batch Warning This drink is HARD to batch because of the smoke element. Make these individually at a party and make a SHOW of it. It’s performance art.

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The Watch Party Setup (How to Use These Drinks)

Alright, so you’ve got three Stranger Things cocktails. Here’s how to structure your watch party:

The Progression Plan:

Start of the night (Episodes 1-2):

• Serve The Upside Down
• It’s light, fruity, approachable
• The flip moment breaks the ice and gets everyone hyped
• Perfect for the setup episodes where things are still relatively normal

Mid-session (Episodes 3-5):

• Switch to Eleven’s Eggo Smash
• It’s sweeter, more comforting
• You need the energy boost (and the sugar) to stay engaged
• This is when the show gets emotional and you need comfort food (drink)

Final stretch (Episodes 6-End):

• Break out Mind Flayer Smoke Show
• Dark, intense, dramatic
• Matches the finale energy
• The smoke adds to the “oh shit things are getting REAL” atmosphere
• Only make these for the people who are still standing

Alternative: The Season-Specific Approach

• Season 1: The Upside Down (it’s ALL about the Upside Down)
• Season 2: Mind Flayer Smoke Show (Mind Flayer introduction)
• Season 3: Make a fourth drink called “Scoops Ahoy Sundae” (ice cream cocktail with sprinkles)
• Season 4: ALL THREE at once because Season 4 is LONG AS HELL

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The Snack Pairing (Because You Can’t Just Drink)

These drinks pair well with:

• Eggos (obviously) – Toasted with butter
• Pizza (Surfer Boy Pizza, anyone?) – Order from your local spot
• Popcorn (movie theater style) – Because it’s basically a movie marathon
• Candy (80s candy specifically) – Fun Dip, Nerds, Pop Rocks, etc.
• Chips and Dip (classic party food) – Keep it simple

Nerd Tip: Set up a “Hawkins Snack Table” with all the food they eat in the show. Eggos, pizza, candy, chips. Commit to the theme.

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The Drinking Game (OPTIONAL – Proceed With Caution)

If you want to make this a DRINKING experience (in addition to the cocktails):

Take a sip when:

• Someone says “The Upside Down”
• Eleven gets a nosebleed
• Hopper yells at someone
• Joyce looks stressed (this is constant, pace yourself)
• Someone uses a walkie-talkie
• 80s music plays
• Steve’s hair looks perfect
• Dustin says “She’s our friend and she’s crazy!”

Take a shot when:

• Someone dies (RIP)
• A Demogorgon appears
• Eleven uses her powers to throw something
• Will gets possessed (again)
• Murray is right about something

Finish your drink when:

• The season ends on a cliffhanger (every season)
• You cry (probably multiple times)

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Final Thoughts: Drinks From Another Dimension

Look, Stranger Things is PEAK “drink with friends and yell at the TV” content. These three cocktails aren’t just drinks—they’re EXPERIENCES. They’re conversation starters. They’re photo ops. They’re the difference between a “we watched Stranger Things” night and a “remember that EPIC Stranger Things party?” night.

The Upside Down gives you the visual wow factor. Eleven’s Eggo Smash gives you the comfort and sweetness. Mind Flayer Smoke Show gives you the dramatic finale energy.

Make all three. Don’t make all three. Make your own variations. Add more smoke. Add more sugar. Add more booze. The point is: you’re COMMITTING to the theme. You’re not just passively watching a show—you’re EXPERIENCING it.

And when Season 5 drops and we’re all crying about who dies in the finale, at least you’ll have these cocktails to ease the pain.

Now go forth, mix these drinks, and may the Eggo be with you. 🧇🍹👾

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P.S. – If you make the Mind Flayer Smoke Show and DON’T record it for social media, did it even happen? Document everything. The gram needs content.

P.P.S. – Designated drivers exist for a reason. If you’re making all three of these in one night, someone needs to stay sober. Probably Steve. Steve’s the mom friend.

P.P.P.S. – If someone at your party says “I don’t like Stranger Things,” hand them one of these drinks and make them watch Season 1 Episode 1. They’ll convert. If they don’t, they’re a Mindflayer host and you should call Hopper.

P.P.P.P.S. – RIP Barb. Justice for Barb. Make a fourth drink called “Barb’s Poolside Tragedy” (it’s just a White Claw poured into a red solo cup). Too soon? It’s been 8 years. Still too soon.