June 1, 2019

Columbus Craft Cocktails – Summer 2019

Here it is: the list of a few of my favorite cocktails at the hottest and newest bars in Columbus, Ohio for summer 2019. If you’re looking for patios to accompany your drinks, click HERE for more of my favorites!

Cocktail #1: “Baja to Bangkok”, Wunderbar

If you’re limiting yourself to trying just one new craft cocktail this summer (lol but please don’t because Columbus is a mecca of fantastic booze creators) then this one HAS to be it. The refreshing flavors in the “Baja to Bangkok” at Wunderbar caught me by surprise when I took my first sip. Tequila, kiwi, coconut, basil, and lime combine for the ultimate summer cocktail. I proceeded to down the whole drink in about two minutes because it was so good. Whoops.

Want to know the bonus? Pierogi Mountain is whipping up German classics in the back of the bar. Check ’em out on Mondays when pierogies are only $1/each!

WUNDERBAR. 739 S 3RD ST

Cocktail #2: Anything at Lincoln Social

While this is only Cameron Mitchell’s first “cocktail centric” restaurant, it sure doesn’t seem like it. Ever since the venue’s opening over a month ago, the California-like rooftop atmosphere has been bustling just about any night I’ve been there.

One of my favorite things about craft cocktails are the fun little “twists” that the creator can add to what would initially be a regular drink. Take the “Don’t Kill my Vibe” (pictured right), for example. The drink is served up and your server presents you with a small box that contains an edible flower, called the “buzz button“. You have the option to add this to your drink, which will give your mouth a little “buzz” or make it slightly numb. Typing it out that sounds a little weird, but I guess I ordered it, didn’t I?! The cocktail originally intrigued me by its refreshing ingredients: Don Julio Blanco, strawberries, lime, egg white, hummingbird bitters.

Pictured left is the “Stir it Up”: Maxime Trijol VSOP, pineapple, Plantation Rum, citrus, foam.

LINCOLN SOCIAL. 9^th Floor, 711 North High Street

Cocktail #3: “Blueberry Basil Margarita”, Balboa

Sure sure, Balboa has been around for awhile. But have you seen their new and improved patio? It’s perfect for people watching in downtown Grandview, especially during “Grandview Hop”, which occurs the last Saturday of the month. It’s Grandview Avenue’s summertime sidewalk market between 1st and 5th avenues.

Once I find a favorite I tend to stick to it, so I won’t lie to you and say that I’ve gotten around the Balboa cocktail menu. With a drink as good as the Blueberry Basil Margarita, you don’t need options. My only gripe about Balboa is that the service is always slooooow. Not necessarily a problem if you’re in a hurry to go nowhere – so just keep that in mind!

BALBOA. 1312 Grandview Ave

Cocktail #4: “Sheriff Pimms”, Bristol Republic

If your summer checklist includes country music, good barbecue, and a variety of sweet to sour cocktails, Bristol Republic is the spot for you. Don’t let the Short North construction chaos keep you away from the newest gem on High Street. They have cocktail options for just about any palate – I like my drinks not too sweet, so I ordered the “Sheriff Pimms” which contains Watershed Gin, ginger ale, muddled cucumbers, strawberry, and mint. Psst: All cocktails are 1/2 off during happy hour. That makes this bad boy only $4! Also pictured is the “Strawberry Lemonade” and “Don’s Back Porch Tea”.

BRISTOL REPUBLIC. 1124 N HIGH ST

Cocktail #5: Bloody Mary, Juniper

Ahh, what a beautiful brunch cocktail lineup. If you’re not into brunch buffets (served 11am-2:30pm on Sundays at the rooftop bar and restaurant) you’re still welcome to make the trip up to the top of the Smith Bros Building to sip on a drink while enjoying the views. Although not unique, my favorite choice is the Bloody Mary (far right) because the Juniper staff creates their own mix. It’s gotta lil somethin’ special in it, that’s for sure!

JUNIPER. 580 North Fourth Street

Cocktail #6: “Higher Grounds”, Antiques on High

Now this is my kind of hair of the dog cocktail – it includes caffeine. “Higher Grounds” was curated by the same minds that own Seventh Son brewing, so you know it’s going to be good. This includes Middle West Vodka, Fernet Branca, and Branca Menta. Translation: Boozy coffee. You’re welcome.

Looking for something a little more summery to enjoy on their upstairs patio? Try the “Weird Uncle“. It’s a frozen cocktail with ginger, honey, lemon, and blended scotch.

And of course, the sour beers are a great option as well.