Each episode begins with an overview of the places Zane will visit on his trip to the location that is the topic of the episode. Typically over the course of the episode, Zane will introduce different local alcoholic beverages and frequently spend some time with either a bar tender or alcohol-maker to learn more about the drink. Many times when a new term or idea is introduced a note will pop on the screen to provide further information or help with pronunciation.

There are a number of recurring segments and gags that are unique to the show. For one, a voice over feature called the professor will come on to introduce an in-depth history of description of a place or drink. Also, Zane often refers to his drinking buddy, a stuffed monkey named Pleepleus, who appears at random points in the show.

Many episodes feature references to a friend of Zane's from college named Steve McKenna who is noteworthy for his drinking exploits. Zane coined the term Steve McKenna'd which he defines as "To be inebriated to the point where one loses control of their actions. Examples may include drunk dialing, no restraint over bodily functions, streaking, etc." Example "Sorry I hit on your mom last night, I was Steve Mckenna'd."

Throughout Zane's travels, he meets a number of diverse, and unique characters. During the "NY Pub Crawl", several of these individuals returned to the show. These included:

Steve McKenna: A running gag on the show (see above), Zane's college friend Steve first made an actual appearance during the episode "Three Sheets to Kentucky". During the episode, Steve invented a drink (The Irish American) and ended the episode in typical Steve McKenna fashion.

Logan "The Beer Hunter": Logan travels the world always in search of the greatest brews. His zeal for beer was first documented during the episode "Three Sheets to Belgium" where he met Zane at the Delirium Cafe in Brussels. He had a penchant for stealing Zane's beer.

Jim the Cop: Jim, a New York police officer, ran into Zane in Puerto Rico. He lost a beer chugging contest and returned to the States in shame. He 'contacted MOJO to demand a rematch' to take place in NYC. During the "NYC Pub Crawl", Zane and Jim had a rematch. While the results were considerably closer, he lost again, while spilling a good deal of beer on his shirt. Zane now makes reference to someone who has spilled beer on themselves during the course of chugging a drink as having "Jim the Cop'd". He made a guest appearance during the Las Vegas episode where he wins at celebrity poker.

Pleepleus the Monkey: Zane's main travel companian, so he does not have to drink alone at times. (Given to him by his wife who appeared in the Las Vegas episode).

The show also doubles as a drinking game, introduced in the Croatia episode. The rules are as follows:

Rule 1: When Zane drinks, you drink.

Rule 2: The first person to spot Pleepleus the monkey, makes someone else drink.

Rule 3: When Zane mentions his friend, Steve McKenna, everyone drinks.

Rule 4: When Zane or anyone burps, the last person to give the "Good Burp" sign (thumb on your forehead, pinky in the air) drinks.

Rule 5: If you "Jim-The-Cop" (spill your beer while drinking, or chugging) you have to buy someone a drink. If you're watching at home, or a friend's house, make a run to the fridge.

Rule 6: (New Rule for Season Three) If you ever spot Zane holding a drink improperly you can make someone drink. Here are the proper positions: