Calusa Brewing
Now first of all, if cocktails aren’t your thing, don’t fret. We’re also here to show you the best place for beers on tap: Calusa Brewing. They have a huge selection of specialty in-house-made beers and you’re going to want a taste of them all.
As well as beer on-tap, Calusa Brewing also has canned options. Beat the heat with the crisp and refreshing Citronious, characterized with a huge citrus flavor. Or enjoy an Irish Stout, such as the Rule of Thumb.
Now onto the cocktails!
Sage SRQ
There is so much to love about Sage SRQ. Residing in the historic Sarasota Times Building, Sage boasts elegant architecture from renowned architect Dwight James Braum - the man who was the visionary behind John and Mable Ringling’s Ca d’Zan mansion.
The food is delicious, the atmosphere is elegant, and the drinks are magnificent. We love the handcrafted, upscale cocktails such as the Old Spaniard, a cozy mixture of Uncle Nearest 1884 whiskey, Demerara sugar, Smoked Cinnamon Tincture, and Saffron Spritz.
Or how about the Japanese Old Fashioned pictured above? Kaiyo Mizunara Whiskey paired with Demerara and Black Walnut Bitters.
Perfect for a special occasion or just a girl's night out, Sage SRQ creates a cocktail experience unlike anything else.
State Street Eating House and Cocktails
No one boasts quality cocktails quite like State Street Eating House. Voted “Best Cocktail” for 8 years in a row, you’re sure to sip straight splendor. Raving reviews from customers describe both the food and drink as “innovative” and “perfectly curated”.
State Street Eating House is proud of their spirits and mixology. Their drinks are vibrant and delectable. Try a variety of bold flavors, such as a fan-favorite (pictured): The Bramble. Made with gin, fresh lemon, and blackberry liqueur, this cocktail will transport you straight to summer.
Looking for something a bit more sophisticated? Order The Scholar for a delightful combination of scotch, apple brandy, green chartreuse, amaro dell’etna, and cocoa liqueur.
Make sure to grab brunch or dinner while you’re there! State Street Eating House serves fresh, seasonal fare for the highest quality dishes!
Libbys
Serving up classic cocktails with a twist and delicious American fare, Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie is the perfect place to go for a more laid back and casual experience. Libby’s says it best in their motto, “Life is Better at Libby’s”.
An excellent way to kickstart the weekend is with their new cocktail, the 3 Day Weekend. Skyy Vodka, St. Germaine Liqueur, grapefruit, and lime juice will leave you ready to party!
Pictured is the Dragonberry Mojito, an Insta-worthy drink that is a splash of bubbly tropical flavor.
Pangea Alchemy Lab
Founded in 2010, Pangea Lounge creates handmade craft cocktails in a relaxed European-style lounge setting. We are currently fascinated with the Dracunculus (Lil Dragon) Elixir, which sounds like a Harry Potter spell. Well, this luxurious libation will definitely put a spell on you, it's so delish!
They mix bison grass vodka, tequila, fresh lemon, watermelon aqua fresca, and a housemade tarragon elixir... expecto-yum!
Michaels On East
Michael's on East is best known for its award-winning wine cellar, but don't miss out on the masterful cocktails in Michael's Piano Bar and Lounge. Check Michael's Facebook page to learn the word of the week, and speakeasy to lounge mixologists for access to happy hour specials during Michael's "Secret Word Mondays."
We hope you get to try some of the concoctions on this list. Let us know what you think!