Grant it, Utah has always been a little behind when it comes to state liquor laws. And, you do have to flash an ID among check out at a Utah liquor stores, even if you were born in 1939. But when it comes to cocktails, Park City is cutting-edge! Every summer, the Park City Savor the Cocktail contact features dozens of local mixologists strutting their creative concoctions as local restaurant patrons sample and vote on their favorites. This year, Reagan Chung, mixologist at Handle restaurant, emerged as the champion with his Gin Rhubarb special, that will be highlighted at the upcoming Dine About event taking place from October 14-22. In the meantime, following are some of my favorite spots for craftails!
- High West Distillery – It wouldn’t be a proper trip to Park City without a stop at High West, located on Park Avenue in Park City, within walking distance of the free town bus stop, (thankfully). Featuring tours, tastings and dining experiences, High West has earned cocktail royalty with its famously mixed whiskeys and cocktails, proudly distilled amid a scenic backdrop in Wanship, Utah – also open for tours, samplings and Sunday Brunch. highwest.com
- Hearth & Hill – Located at Kimball Junction, this restaurant is a great solution to enjoying a special night out without the frills of Main Street. If you can, sit at the bar and watch the mixologists go, as they concoct and garmish innocative beverages to sip the season. hearth-hill.com/menu/
- Handle – Featuring “the Rattlesnake” and a list of “fun” cocktails along with a celebratory wine list, Handle handles your every craving. Special orders and dietary restrictions are welcome, as you sample locally sourced cuisine at the base of Main Street. handleparkcity.com
- Shabu
- Tupelo
- Glitretind at Stein Eriksen Lodge – Many times recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, the Giltretind and Troll Hallen Lounge feature a celebrated list of specialty cocktails and wines presented by an in-house sommelier. Framed by the stunning views of Upper Deer Valley, this is an incredible place to savor Utah’s fresh, seasonal cuisine. steinlodge.com
- Kita – Located inside the Pendry Hotel at Canyons Village, Kita serves up signature drinks with a spectacular wine list to complement its modern Japanese grill-style menu. Awesome for celebrating special occasions. pendry.com/park-city/kita
- Alpine Distilling – Providing “true, good and beautiful” experiences, these flavorists and distillers curate cocktails and spirits that have produced impressive accolades. Featuring gin and botanical spirits, whiskey and Lafayette Spiced Bourbon, this pleasure club is located at 364 Main Street, right next to the BHHS Sales Gallery, (we’re at 354 Main)! www.alpinedistilling.com
- Fletchers – Crafty cocktails by the fire in the Library Lounge after sundown? Why not! Enjoy a Maple Manhattan in this elegant yet friendly ambience as you savor the highest quality fare at Fletchers on Main. fletcherspc.com
- Firewood – Formerly Cisero’s on Main Street, Firewood has emerged as one of the best restaurants in town. Combining wood fired specials and featuring a 14-foot wood stove, Firewood features an extensive drink and wine list amid a leather and mohagany ambience in which to enjoy locally sourced cuisine. firewoodonmain.com