The Most Confident Daters Prefer Shots, Neat Drinks And Margaritas, Survey Finds

Singles who order shots, prefer their drinks neat, or go for a classic margarita may be the most self-assured people at the bar, according to a new national survey.

The study of 2,000 single millennial and Gen Z adults age 21 and older found a strong link between drink choice and dating confidence, revealing that 78% of those who favor shots or neat drinks describe themselves as confident daters, along with 70% of margarita fans.

Conducted by Talker Research for Mi CAMPO Tequila and Tinder, the survey found that as so-called “cuffing season” approaches, when singles seek a cold-weather companion, seven in ten singles (70%) say they feel confident enough to “shoot their shot” when meeting someone new.

“Confidence in dating isnt just about being bold — its about being real,” said Devyn Simone, Tinders resident relationship expert. “Gen Z and millennial daters are showing us that authenticity is the new superpower. Whether theyre ordering a margarita or starting the conversation, theyre leading with self-assurance and genuine energy — and thats exactly what turns a first meeting into a real connection.”

Among those who drink alcohol, respondents who prefer their drinks on the rocks (79%) or who favor tequila (77%) were more likely to initiate a connection.

The research also found that 57% of singles enjoy at least one alcoholic drink on a first date. Top choices include margaritas (31%), shots (28%), a glass of wine (25%), mimosas (14%), and martinis (13%). Other first-date staples include going out to dinner (52%), grabbing drinks (40%), and seeing a movie (36%). If things go well, 32% expect to discuss a second date, while 26% anticipate a first kiss.

“We believe every connection starts with a great story — whether youre sharing a pour with an old friend or mixing up a new cocktail with someone youve just met, we blend bold storytelling, meticulous creftsmanship and approachable flavor to make the perfect companion for those who are unapologetically themselves” said Jackie Jacobs, director of brand marketing for Mi CAMPO Tequila. “Our partnership with Tinder encourages a bolder style of dating and helps singles turn a swipe into something special both online and in real life. This cuffing season, we invite you to shoot your shot, try something new and share a quality cocktail with someone special.”

The survey also highlighted emerging dating trends among younger generations. The most popular is “loud looking” (37%), where daters are upfront about their intentions rather than “playing it cool.” Others include “future proofing” (34%), having early conversations about long-term goals, and “daytime dating” (32%), which offers a relaxed, low-pressure way to meet.

Not all trends are positive: 38% have experienced “nanoships,” or brief, low-commitment relationships, and 37% have bonded over quirks in whats known as “matching freak.”

When it comes to making the first move, 40% of respondents said its easier to connect in person than on dating apps, though one in three said both are equally viable.

With colder months approaching, 56% of singles say theyre looking forward to “cuffing season,” planning an average of five first dates. The top reasons include seeking intimacy (37%), building emotional connections (31%), and avoiding seasonal loneliness (30%). Over half (53%) said they feel especially empowered to take a chance on someone new during this time of year.

When asked which drink best matches their “cuffing season energy,” one in four chose tequila-based cocktails. Among them, most said they identify with straight tequila (56%), describing themselves as bold, spontaneous, and emotionally open. Others saw themselves as palomas — bubbly and easygoing — or margaritas, representing a spirit of adventure and living without regrets.