The Best Cocktails on Long Island 2023

Updated: Nov 22

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.