By Nanette Wiser
Aperol Spritz was my 2022 go-to cocktail, thanks to Intermezzo. If you are looking for a signature Valentine’s Day cocktail, Paradise serves up dozens of options. Sip sip hooray!
Buono Taverna I love their Negroni, which takes its name from the alpine amaro, Braulio, which lends its signature gentian notes to the expected combination of gin, Campari and sweet vermouth. DTSP
Chill Restaurant & Bar Delightfully refreshing, the Rhubarb Bramble mixes up Edinburgh Rhubarb & Ginger Gin, fresh lemon juice, ginger simple syrup and topped with a raspberry liqueur. St. Pete Beach
Copper Shaker In addition to a clever cocktail menu and sharable apps, they and The Estate are throwing a Bartender’s Prom 1/23, a totally rad 80’s throwback party. We love the 20/20 made with organic carrot juice and spicy, jalapeño tequila. DTSP
Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Now open with a glorious waterfront view, if you loved The Pier, you’ll relish the Campeche fish tacos, mussels and lime panko crusted fish sandwich served with the tropical rum drink of your choice. Jungle Terrace, DTSP
Sea Dog Brewing Co. The Maine Mule showcases their Ice Pik vodka and lime juice topped with Capt. Eli’s ginger beer and garnished with a mint bouquet in multiple flavors (blueberry, strawberry, mango, coconut, black cherry, raspberry, and peach). Treasure Island
Three Birds Tavern Cool off with Bee’s Knees Lemonade or for happy hour Mon.-Thurs. 3-6pm, especially Thursday for $5 martinis all day long. In addition to The Annex downtown, owner John Ruetz is opening an Annex Two drive-thru in Gulfport and runs Johnny’s Restaurant and Pizzeria. St. Pete
Wild Child Lost Weekend mixes fresh watermelon, agave, mint and your choice of vodka, gin, tequila, rum and mezcal or Brandy Latte Punch, a delish Bandit vanilla cold brew syrup with Solerno, Averna, brandy and oat milk. DTSP
Valentine Cocktail Recipe: 1.5 oz. gin, 3/4 oz. hibiscus syrup, 3/4 oz. lemon juice, 2 oz. sparkling wine. Shake gin, hibiscus syrup and lemon juice and pour into a wine glass and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with edible flower.