What is typically served with a straight shot of liquor?

A straight shot of liquor is commonly served with a "back," which refers to a drink that accompanies the shot to either cleanse the palate or serve as a chaser. This is often a non-alcoholic beverage such as water or soda, but can sometimes be another spirit. The purpose of the back is to provide a refreshing contrast to the intensity of the shot, making it an ideal pairing.

In contrast, a mixer is typically added to liquor prior to serving to create a mixed drink, which is different from serving a straight shot. A garnish is often used to enhance the presentation or flavor of a drink, but it isn't a standard accompaniment to a shot in the same way a back is. Lastly, a martini is a type of mixed drink and doesn't relate directly to serving a straight shot of liquor. Thus, choosing a back as the appropriate serving option highlights an important aspect of drinking culture where the flavors and experiences of different beverages are intended to complement one another.