The Best Cocktails on Long Island 2023

Ruta Oaxaca Mexican Cuisine, Patchogue Winners of Best Cocktail of The Year

The LI Cocktail Fest celebrated its triumphant return on November 12th, 2023, after a 3-year hiatus since 2019. Bars from Long Island united to compete for the coveted title of Best Cocktail of the Year, infusing a burst of creativity & innovation that promises to redefine the island's cocktail scene. Yet, it's more than just a competition; it's a profound statement on the current pulse of mixology, a testament to the flourishing bar culture on Long Island, & a heartfelt embrace of the passionate cocktail enthusiasts in our midst. As we toast to the winners below, selected by both our esteemed judges & the people, join us in witnessing the festival favorite cocktail that captures the essence of this spectacular comeback.

"La Mixta"

Ruta Oaxaca Mexican Cuisine

Los Siete Misterios Mezcal

1st Place - Best Cocktail of the Year 2023

"Our lovely guests inspired this cocktail."

Siete Misterios Espadin, Barrel Celect Patrón Reposado Tequila, Nixta Corn Liquor, Botanical Liquer,

Green Melón Liquor & Juice, Luxardo, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Pulque, Celery Bitters, Saline, Dragon Fruit & Nixta Foam.

"Drive By Fruiting"

Bluebird Kitchen LI

Tito's Handmade Vodka

2nd Place - Best Cocktail of the Year 2023

"'Passion Fruit is a fabulous winter ingredient we use for our bar program as a compliment to our seasonal menu. 'Drive By Fruiting' is an original cocktail from Bluebird Kitchen & the name is a reference to the film, 'Mrs. Doubtfire'."

Tito's Handmade Vodka, Lustau Manzanilla Sherry, Housemade Sage Honey, Boiron Passion Fruit Puree,

Yuzu Juice, Housemade Passion Fruit Syrup, Peychaud's Bitters. Served in a coupe glass straight up & Garnished a Black Peppercorn Crusted, Dehydrated & Candied Sage leaf.

Bar Staff of Bluebird Kitchen

"Honey Butter Apple Martini"

JardÍn Cafe & Restaurant

Upstate Vodka

3rd Place Best Cocktail of the Year 2023

"I was inspired by an apple crisp pie. Upstate Vodka is amazing on its own & I wanted to take advantage of the flavor of 100% New York Apples. I enhanced them in a way that brings out the simplicity of their natural flavor as a celebration of fall flavors."

Upstate Vodka Fat Washed In Butter, Ginger, Cinnamon sticks, & Granny Smith apples. A hint of Turmeric & Honey Infused Brandy, Fresh Pressed Granny Smith Apples, & Fresh Lime Juice.