Celebrate National Cocktail Day at These Bars & Restaurants in Syracuse
Sure, any bar or restaurant can make the basic cocktails. Gin & Tonic, Vodka Cranberry, Rum & Coke, Old Fashioned… But if you’re looking for something that kicks things up a notch, these restaurants and bars have some of the best cocktails in Syracuse. Each of them has an incredible selection of spirits and mixers to craft specialty cocktails for every palate.
Al’s Wine and Whiskey Lounge
Easily the most famous bar for liquor in downtown Syracuse, Al’s Wine and Whiskey Lounge has the largest selection of spirits around. Thousands of bottles of every type of liquor fill the wall behind the bar, with a rolling ladder to reach the top shelves. With so many choices, it’s no doubt that they can create some of the best cocktails in the city. But don’t expect to see a cocktail menu. That would just limit your options! If you’re looking for something new and unique, just let the bartender know your preferences and they will create a drink that is perfectly suited for your palate.
When you visit, tell the bartender your favorite type of liquor and style of drink. You won’t be disappointed.
Oh My Darling & The Fitz
When it comes to crafting a unique menu and amazing cocktails, Ryan and Leigh Ann Benz sure know what they are doing. At both their charming restaurant, Oh My Darling, and the speakeasy downstairs, The Fitz, you’ll find a fully stocked bar. Each spot has their own list of house cocktails, ranging in style and seasonality. One of the most unique aspects? The custom cocktails they create that are themed to whatever event is currently happening at the Landmark Theatre.
When you visit, try
Salt City Bar
What started as one of the best coffee roasters in Syracuse, Salt City Coffee has expanded into the alcohol space with the addition of Salt City Bar in early 2021. The bar features not only their signature coffee and local beer, but also a full bar of delicious spirits. Located within the Salt City Market, the bar changes their signature cocktails seasonally to keep it interesting. But if you’re still not sure what you want, the bartenders are always up for creating something special just for you.
When you visit, try “Paradise Lost” – made with Asian rum, black sesame orgeat, pinapple, lime, orange, activated charcoal, and a pineapple flambé.
Three Lives Bar
Don’t be fooled by the arcade theme of this bar; they have food and drinks that are pretty spectacular. Keeping with the theme, the main cocktails at Three Lives Bar are their potions and elixirs. Made with fresh juices and a variety of mixers, these drinks also come in creative glasses to add to the experience.
Owner Jon and Head Bartender Josh are constantly at work creating new, creative cocktails to suit every palate. Sweet, boozy, spicy, you name it. Their cocktail and shot lists are so extensive, I challenge you not to find something you love.
Lastly, everyone’s favorite thing to do at Three Lives is to “roll for a shot”. You gamble by rolling a 20-sided die and getting the shot that matches up with the number you roll. With just as much imagination, the shots are each mini cocktails of their own.
When you visit, try “Brain Dance” – made with bourbon, aperol, pomegranate, lemon, an absinthe rinse, simple syrup, and an edible smoke bubble.
The York
The big city vibe and flavors of The York goes beyond the food menu. The signature cocktail list features some of the best cocktails in Syracuse. The menu highlights Basil Hayden’s Whiskey and Patròn Añejo Tequila, which was handpicked in Mexico for the restaurant. The additional cocktails include high end spirits that you don’t typically find at other bars. Each drink is crafted with a unique selection of ingredients and garnishes.
When you visit, try “Sealed With a Kiss” – made with Patròn Añejo, Ilegal Mezcal, caramel, apple, cinnamon, and chocolate bitters.
