When it comes to shot glasses, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how many ounces they hold. However, in the United States, many bartenders consider a standard shot glass to hold 1.5 ounces (or 44 milliliters) of liquid. This is often referred to as a “standard pour” or a “standard shot.”
Now, you might be wondering why 1.5 ounces became the accepted standard. The truth is, there isn’t a clear-cut answer to that. Shot glass sizes can vary from country to country, and even within different regions of the same country. In the U.S., 1.5 ounces seems to have become the norm over time, likely due to a combination of factors such as tradition, convenience, and consistency.
In my personal experience, I have encountered shot glasses of various sizes. Some were smaller, holding around 1 ounce, while others were larger, holding up to 2 ounces or more. However, the 1.5-ounce size is the one I have come across most frequently in bars and restaurants.
It’s worth noting that shot glasses are not only used for serving alcoholic beverages, but also for measuring and serving other types of liquids in the kitchen. Their small size makes them convenient for measuring out ingredients for cocktails, desserts, and other recipes that require precise measurements.
To summarize, while there is no federally-mandated shot glass size in the U.S., many bartenders consider a standard shot glass to hold 1.5 ounces (44 milliliters) of liquid. This size has become widely accepted and is commonly used in bars and restaurants. However, it’s important to keep in mind that shot glass sizes can vary, and different countries or regions may have their own standards.