Sip, Savor, Strategize: A Cocktail Lover's Recap of Hotel ZaZa's Cocktail Showdown

This year marked my third year attending Hotel ZaZa’s Cocktail Showdown. Each year top bartenders are chosen to craft a cocktail inspired by a set theme. This year? Fruit Euphoria.

Winners are crowned by People’s Choice and Judge’s Selection, and yes, I am manifesting my spot at the judge’s table in 2026. Do your thing universe!

Events like this are a cocktail lover’s dream, limited-edition drinks, fresh ingredients, intentional concepts and bartenders bringing their A-game. I love the exclusivity of having a cocktail that exists for that moment, for that event. Similar to my last post about one of my fav bartenders doing a bar takeover. The cocktails were created just for that event.

As someone who invested in Cocktail Culture, these experiences are tastings for me, not a party, not a turnup, not to guzzle drinks and get tipsy. It’s about savoring the flavors, noticing the flavor profiles, the presentation and hearing the story of the concept.

Six brands were represented this year, and with only two hours to sample and vote, I knew I had to have a game plan. This is not my first rodeo.

Step 1: Hydrate and eat prior to arrival

Step 2: Get there early to maximize your time

Step 3: Be open to finding a new event friend

I spotted someone at a cocktail table by herself with three cocktails lined up. I approached and asked if she was waiting for friends. Turns out, she was by herself and she had a plan. She had three drinks so she could taste her cocktails without leaving her table. A genius move in theory, but in practice, letting drinks sit in the sun? The integrity of the cocktail fades fast, ice melts and ingredients separate.

Still, I am always looking for ways to be efficient with my time. So next year I’ll take the approach of double-fisting and alternating drinks. That way, I get the freshest taste and still make the most of the experience.

For me, sipping a cocktail is not about rushing to finish a drink, it’s about pausing. Noticing. Appreciating. Every ingredient is there for a reason.

And that’s the energy I bring to Cocktail/Mocktail Hour. It’s not just drinks and conversation, it’s intentional connection. Each featured cocktail is tried and chosen, and guests that attend find the event organically. Come sip with us.

Click here to save your seat for Cocktail/Mocktail Hour.