*The beverage lineup at James Beard Award winner Kann in Portland, Oregon (Courtesy: Kann /* *IG)*

The culinary world is buzzing with excitement as the latest James Beard Award winners are announced. These celebrated chefs and mixologists are gaining attention not only for their amazing dishes, but also for their inventive and exquisite cocktails. The spotlight is on their ability to blend flavors and create unique beverage experiences that complement their culinary masterpieces. From the use of rare and locally-sourced ingredients to the incorporation of cutting-edge techniques, these award-winning cocktails are setting new trends in the industry.

Each cocktail tells a story, reflecting the creativity and skill of its creator. Whether it's a modern twist on a classic concoction or a completely original creation, these drinks are designed to surprise and delight the palate. The James Beard Award winners are not just serving drinks; they are crafting liquid works of art that enhance the dining experience and leave a lasting impression, so let's dive into some of the standout drinks from these renowned establishments.

The Halab Margarita at Albi (Courtesy: Albi / IG)

Albi, Washington, D.C.

Michael Rafidi’s Albi is renowned for its modern Middle Eastern cuisine and equally inventive cocktails. Here are two must-try drinks:

Halab Margarita

Ingredients: Tequila, sumac-pepper liqueur, spiced orange, lime
Description: Named for the city of Aleppo, the Halab Margarita is a bold twist with sumac and pepper liqueur, delivering a spicy, citrusy punch that perfectly complements Albi’s vibrant dishes.

Our Lady of Lebanon

Ingredients: Lebanese gin, sumac, lavender, pomegranate, lemon, egg white
Description: A sophisticated blend that balances the floral notes of lavender with the tartness of pomegranate and the tangy flavor of sumac, creating a smooth and frothy delight.

*The Pride Negroni at Perry’s (Courtesy: Perry’s* *IG)*

Perry’s, Washington, D.C.

Masako Morishita’s Perry’s is celebrated for its sleek ambiance and Japanese-inspired cocktails. Two standout drinks are:

Pride Negroni

Ingredients: Amayuki Strawberry Gin, Ransom Dry Vermouth, Campari
Description: A fruity twist on the classic Negroni, this version uses strawberry gin to add a sweet and aromatic dimension to the traditional bitter profile.

Cherry Bomb

Ingredients: Mezcal, Cherry Heering, Aperol, Licor 43, tart cherry juice, Togarashi bitters, lime
Description: This cocktail is an explosion of flavors, combining the smokiness of mezcal with the sweetness of cherry and the unique heat of Togarashi bitters.

Feast of Avalon at Jewel of the South (Courtesy: Jewel of the South / IG)

Jewel of the South, New Orleans

Jewel of the South offers a charming experience with a menu of cocktails that celebrate both tradition and innovation. Here are two highlights:

Feast of Avalon

Ingredients: Pineau des Charentes, Ardbeg 10 Year, pomegranate, Bengal spice tea syrup, lemon
Description: This drink blends the richness of Ardbeg whisky with the fruity and spicy notes of pomegranate and Bengal spice, creating a deep and complex flavor profile.

Carrot Colada

Ingredients: Don Q Rum, Hamilton Pot Still Rums, carrot coco money love, carrot turmeric honey, lime
Description: A unique take on the classic piña colada, this version uses carrot and turmeric to add earthy, sweet, and spicy notes that make for a refreshing and unexpected cocktail.

Lula Cafe, Chicago

Known for its inventive, market-driven cuisine, Lula Cafe also offers a creative cocktail menu. Two must-try drinks include:

Lagoon Snapper

Ingredients: Vodka, cloosterbitter, apple brandy, pineapple, basil
Description: This cocktail is a refreshing blend of sweet and herbal flavors, with pineapple and basil creating a tropical yet sophisticated drink.

Harvest Moon

Ingredients: Reposado tequila, corn liqueur, persimmon, mole bitters, smoke
Description: A complex cocktail that combines the smoky depth of mole bitters with the sweetness of persimmon and the rich flavor of reposado tequila.

Kann, Portland

Gregory Gourdet’s Kann brings Haitian flavors to the Pacific Northwest, reflected in its distinctive cocktails. Two highlights are:

Jaden Vyolet

Ingredients: Gin, herbal liqueur, lavender, lemon, egg white
Description: A floral and frothy delight, this cocktail balances the botanicals of gin with the calming notes of lavender and the tartness of lemon.

Rév Soléy

Ingredients: Rye, bourbon, passion fruit, cashew orgeat, crème de cacao, lime
Description: This cocktail is a harmonious blend of tropical and nutty flavors, with passion fruit and cashew orgeat providing a unique twist to the classic rye and bourbon base.

READY TO ExploRe MORE award-winning restaurants?

These exceptional cocktails offers a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship that define the current cocktail scene. See the full list of James Beard Winners here. Cheers to these culinary innovators and their delightful creations!

Discovering the Best Cocktails from James Beard Award-Winning Restaurants