Best Cocktails
Kon Tiki
READERS' PICK:The "Drink Of The Gods"--Kon Tiki's premiere drink--has changed more than a few lives foolish enough to cross its path. The infamous blend of several boozes is also noted for its take-home prize: a finely crafted ceramic tiki mug. At last word, Kon Tiki was completely out of the crowning glory mugs, and several thousand more were on order, but there's no need to wait. A plethora of other fine Polynesian cocktails also will delight amidst the grass hut ambiance. Most feature various fruit juices, mixed with ingenious and potent combinations of the heart of any fine cocktail: booze.
4625 E. BroadwayREADERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: TIE-- TGIFridays, 4901 E. Broadway, and Hours, 3455 E. Grant Road.
STAFF PICK: The magic of a good cocktail has as much to do with the knowledge and talent of the bartenders as the liquor being used. Presidio Grill, 3352 E. Speedway, has the best cocktails because it has the best bartenders in town. During a series of fact-finding visits, we sampled the drinks Presidio is known and loved for. We started with the unofficial drink of the Southwest, the margarita. In a time when more restaurants and bars are serving a hideous concoction that can only be called a tequila Slurpee, it was refreshing to see the selection and imagination that went into Presidio's offerings. For something truly unique, try the Patron cocktail. Served in a martini glass it features a splash of Cointreau, fresh lime juice and Patron silver tequila, the perfect antidote to the end of a summer day. The Guaymas Margarita also was a standout. The presence of fresh lime juice rather than a mix places Presidio's margaritas above the rest. Our second visit had us sampling Presidio's other specialty, the martini. Admittedly not fans of gin, we were nonetheless compelled to try a classic martini. The skill of the bartenders splashing the merest trace of vermouth and chilling the gin just enough made us instant converts. For those of you avoiding gin, Tess' Martini features Ketel One Vodka and tomolives in place of olives for a different and refreshing change. In addition, Presidio boasts a wonderful Bloody Mary, many different beers and a staff well-versed in the excellent wine selection.
