What do the terms "up" and "straight" refer to in cocktail service?

The terms "up" and "straight" in cocktail service specifically indicate that a drink is served in a stemmed glass without ice. When a cocktail is ordered "up," it means that the drink has been chilled, often through shaking or stirring with ice, and then strained into the glass, creating a smooth and refined presentation without the dilution that ice would cause.

The use of a stemmed glass for drinks served "up" allows for an elegant serving style, enhancing the drinking experience. This is particularly common for cocktails like martinis or Manhattans, where the intent is to enjoy the full flavor and aroma of the spirits and any additional ingredients without interference from melting ice.