Home » Bartending News » Celebrating the Winners: Best Cocktail of the Year & Tiki Throw Down 2026
BARTENDER® Magazine is proud to serve as the official media partner, celebrating the bartenders, bars, and creative minds behind this year’s standout cocktails at Tiki Throw Down 2026!
The 2026 Best Cocktail of the Year and Tiki Throw Down brought together talented bartenders and innovative beverage programs to showcase the creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling happening behind the bar.
As the media partner for this year’s event, BARTENDER® Magazine is excited to recognize the winning bars and bartenders who brought these cocktails to life!
The Pollinator
“The inspiration behind The Pollinator came from bees, honey, and the important role pollinators play in nature…” — Nicolas Zapata, Bar Manager
One Madison Avenue
“I wanted to create something that represents the elegance of La Tête d’Or, growing up in NYC & most importantly, the hard work & support of my bar team.” — Stamatis Karathomas, Bar Manager
Call 4 A Good Time
“Inspired by that moment when life gets a little too loud & everything seems to hit at once- it’s the vacation you take without actually leaving. It’s putting your phone on DND…and letting the rest of the world wait.” — Katrina Sobredilla, Owner
Pineapple Fried Rice
“This started with the idea of taking a dish that feels familiar, comforting, and full of flavor, and reimagining it in a way you wouldn’t expect…” — Jess Bui, GM | Beverage Director
Slingin’ Rhythm
“Thailand’s iconic mango sticky rice & the classic Singapore Sling is reimagined through the spirit of Tiki…Familiar yet new, it is a cocktail with a classic soul & a Thai tropical heart.” — Tommy Tee, The Bartender
Sesame Sunset
“Sesame Sunset was inspired by Taiwanese pineapple cake, but with a completely different direction. Instead of using pineapple as the main fruit element, salted plum was used, while black sesame orgeat became the interpretation of the rich filling inside the pastry.” — Dan Vega, Bar Captain
The Calavera of Doom
“Based on the classic Trader Vics’ 1944 version of the Mai Tai; this version gets dressed up with the addition of floral elements, thoughtfully created tequila & homemade orgeat built from pepitas.” — Jonathan Orlando, Beverage Director + Owner
Bar Lola was also recognized in the People’s Choice category, rounding out this year’s Tiki Throw Down winners.