These Are The Best Cocktails of NYC 2025

Hannah M Mizrahi
Sep 15
2 min read

Meet the winners of the Best Cocktails of NYC — crowned at NY Cocktail Expo Sunday, August 17th, 2025, by esteemed judges & by you, the people!

N°Between Bar, Best Cocktail 2025

The 2025 NY Cocktail Expo brought together a record-breaking crowd to witness artistry, flavor, heritage, innovation, & more, as some of NYC’s most incredible bartenders and mixologists competed using Bull in China Bar Tools for the honor of crafting the Best Cocktails of NYC. The winners below represent the bold ideas and refined techniques shaping the city’s drinks scene now and for years to come!

"Thai Mango Salad" - N°Between Bar

Tequila Herradura

1st Place - Best Cocktail of the Year 2025

Photo Credit: Alexander Ryan

"This drink is inspired by a Thai Dish - Papaya Salad. We wanted to highlight Herradura Blanco in a spicy margarita riff. The combination of the two is where the initial flavor pairing was born!"

Tequila Herradura Blanco, Mango, Cilantro, Chipotle, Pasilla, Agave, Koji.

Garnished With Mango, Koji, And Micro Mint. Served In A Rocks Glass With A Large Cube.

Sheldon Wong, Bar Manager

Photo Credits: Marino PR & Jared Dangremond

"Sailor Moon"- Izakaya Lucky Cat

Mio Sparkling Sake

2nd Place - Best Cocktail of The Year 2025

People's Choice Best Cocktail Of The Year 2025

"Sailor Moon is a story of love, friendship, and transformation under the magic of the moonlight. This cocktail is designed to capture that same spirit—romantic, playful, and a little bit magical. The bright pink base represents Sailor Moon’s heart and youthful energy, while the crystal-blue layer with sparkling sake reflects the transformation magic and glowing moonlight. Together, they merge into a drink that feels dreamy, mysterious, and full of wonder—just like the world of Sailor Moon."

Fresh Raspberry Purée, Lychee Juice, Elderflower Liqueur, Fresh Lemon Juice. Shake Well With Ice, Fine Strain Into Love Potion Glass. In A Crystal Coup Glass, Pour Shochu Infused With Butterfly Pea Flower And Peach. Top With Mio Sparkling Sake. Garnish With Lemon Peel In The Shape Of A Moon.

Bank Nateephat, Head Bartender

"The Beauty Elix" - Beauty & Essex

Hendrick's Gin

3rd Place Best Cocktail of the Year 2025

This is an updated version of the original Beauty Elixer at Beauty & Essex. Partnering with Hendrick's Gin, our goal was to highlight the botanicals and the essence of the spirit while showcasing a whimsical summer cocktail.

Hendrick's Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Strawberry, Honey, Lemon. Garnished with "Cucumber Air", Served Up in a Nick & Nora. We "Beautified" The Beauty Elix By Bathing The Cocktail In Warm Milk, Then Gently & Finely Straining To Remove All Solids, Leaving A Bright And Silky Cocktail.