I like beer to be heavy, bitter, and hoppy. Here in Georgia the Terrapin Rye Pale Ale is pretty good, out west Rogue Shakespeare Stout.
For common brews, I ask for any kind of IPA, then I like Guinness, St Pauli Girl, and Heineken or Budweiser if it comes down to that.
Ales for drinking along with food, lagers when food is not involved.
Single malts are exquisite, lower grade Irish whiskey is usually better than low-grade Scotch whisky.
Although I was born and raised in Tennessee, bourbon is better than "Tennessee Whiskey" and I prefer Ezra Brooks bourbon for drinking on a budget. I like it straight up, or with light rocks and soda if need be.
Otherwise, a really good margarita is hard to beat. Or a gimlet (don't let them hand you vodka!).
Before dinner a dry sherry is a good aperitif.