When it comes to libations and spirits, much ink has been spilled about the rise of mixology and handcrafted cocktails. Long bygone are the days where cocktails were merely mixed drinks–2 parts spirit, 1 part sweet, 1 part sour (once helmed the golden ratio of drink mixing). But, does a mixologist have what it takes to elevate cocktails from mere spirit into inspired art? Behind the bar at these Tampa Bay bars and restaurants, the answer is—a resounding yes. Our palates have evolved and mixologists have evolved along with us, crafting cocktails that are equal parts chemistry, gastronomy, creativity and art.
Enjoy with a meal or for happy hour, these drinks are standout stand-alones or complements to your next dinner outing. Whatever your liquor of choice, there’s something here for you to clink, cheer, sip and savor.
CW’s Gin Joint
Where style and grace have attitude. CW’s Gin Joint is a throwback to a time when fine spirits were savored in an atmosphere that exuded style and gentility, where elegant spirits are enjoyed in a refined and sophisticated ambiance. Under the direction of designer and proprietor Carolyn Wilson a team of specialists has crafted a delightful and delectable menu, expertly pairing it with carefully curated libations.
633 N. Franklin St., Tampa
(813) 816-1446 | cwginjoint.com
Queen Bee
Bar Hill gin
Giffard Banana liqueur
Pimento Dram
Lemon
Honey
Simple syrup
Egg White
Six at JW Marriott Tampa
At Six, enjoy masterful mixology with the best sunset views in Downtown Tampa. A finalist in Marriott International’s Master of the Craft contest, That’s Amaro was crafted by award-winning mixologist, Sean Noddin.
510 Water Street, Tampa
(813) 314-6666 | sixtampa.com
That’s Amaro
JW Tampa Barrel Pick Woodford Reserve
Disarrano Amaretto
Montenegro Amaro
Fresh lemon juice
Egg white
Candy corn simple syrup or Chinese-5 spice simple syrup
Allelo
The cocktail program at Allelo is whimsical while playing on Aegean and Mediterranean influences. Authentic ingredients are used to evoke the sun-soaked flavors of these regions.
300 Beach Drive NE., #128, St. Petersburg
(727) 851-9582 | allelostpete.com
Like a Virgin
Gin
Olive oil syrup
Basil and parsley oil
Paprika oil
Génépi
Mastiha liqueur
Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao
Lime juice
Cold water
Noble Crust
Noble Crust offers an exciting cocktail program with seasonal changes. Its list features classics such as the Frozen Italian Strawberry Ice and Noble Manhattan and spring favorites including The Love Of Lavender. Noble Crust takes pride in balanced cocktails with sensible pricing.
Locations in Tampa, St. Petersburg & Wesley Chapel
(813) 463-0193 | noble-crust.com
The Love Of Lavender
Empress Gin
Blueberry lavender simple
Lemon
Prosecco
Bella’s Italian Café
Bella’s has created a play on two classic cocktails, the bramble and smash. Macerated blueberries steeped with Earl Grey tea, fresh ginger and honey add a subtle sweetness and spice to your choice of spirit. Just in time for summer, the Leila Blue joins the Strawberry Fields and classic Bella-Rita as the latest addition to Bella’s cocktail list.
1413 S. Howard Ave. #100, Tampa
(813) 254-3355 | bellasitaliancafe.com
Leila Blue
Blueberry & Earl Grey compote
Honey-ginger syrup
Lemon
Choice of spirit: 6 O’Clock Gin, Cazadores Reposado Tequila or Benchmark Bourbon.
The Dan at Floridan Palace Hotel
The Dan is the newest restaurant in NoDo highlighting Gulf Coast cuisine and a Roaring Twenties-inspired ambiance.
905 N. Florida Ave, Tampa (Enter on Cass St.)
(813) 318-9719 | dineatthedan.com
Champagne Cocktail
Champagne
Cognac
Bitters
Cotton candy
Élevage SoHo Kitchen & Bar
The Passion Fruit Margarita is crafted with Tequila Corazón Blanco combined with fresh flavors of passion fruit purée, habanero/jalapeño spiced agave and Epicurean’s signature spice rim. All of Mainsail’s Tampa Bay hotels–Epicurean, Fenway and The Karol Hotel– create cocktails not for mere drinking, but for experiencing.
1207 S. Howard Ave, Tampa
(813) 999-8726 | epicureanhotel.com
Passion Fruit Margarita
Corazon Blanco Tequila
Passion fruit purée
Habanero/Jalapeño spiced agave
Epicurean signature spice rim
Café Dufrain
Cheers to summer with this sweet and tangy twist on a cosmopolitan, served at Tampa’s award-winning waterfront restaurant. Cafe Dufrain specializes in Modern American-seasonal cuisine, served with stunning Downtown Tampa views.
707 Harbour Post Drive, Tampa
(813) 275-9701 | cafedufrain.com
Dufrain Royale
Ketel One Oranje
Chambord Liquer
Cranberry
Fresh Lime Juice
Melting Pot Social®
With a new Downtown flagship location, Melting Pot Social® is a whimsical dining experience featuring inventive cocktails, cheese & chocolate fondue and meltable, craveable dishes.
105 W. Tyler Street, Tampa
(813) 683-5707 | meltingpotsocial.com
Jason Miller, Executive Chef
Smoke On The Bay Old Fashioned
Horse Soldier Bourbon
Gasparilla Banana Bread Rum
Kahlúa
Black walnut bitters
Orange peel
Black cherry
(served smoking)
Watervüe Grille
This refreshing gin and tonic with a twist is made with crisp gin flavored with floral-forward aromatic elderflower. Savor with a seasonal seafood menu and the city’s best downtown waterfront views.
700 Harbour Post Drive, Tampa
(813) 642-7980 | watervuegrille.com
Watervüe G & T
Hayman’s Royal Dock Gin
Jack Rudy Elderflower Tonic
Pink Flamingo Shrub
Looking for some sizzling burgers? Check out our 2023 Burger Guide. Want to know how to advertise with us? Find out how here.
