A few months ago when meeting a friend at a high end bar in downtown hotel. I arrived early and was sitting at the bar not knowing what to order. When traveling I often enjoy trying the house specialty drink, usually something features regional flavor and brands. I asked the bartender if this Orlando bar featured any house specialty cocktails or any regional specialties, she looked at me as though I had just asked for ketchup at a Subway.
You see Central Florida doesn't have a regional cocktail. We have beers, wines, even our own vodka but no signature cocktail. Luckily that is about to change thanks to local celebrity food critic Scott Joseph. On Thursday, February 14, 2013 he announced that his site would be looking to find the perfect cocktail to represent Central Florida.
From the post...
"I’m announcing the SJO search for the cocktail that will represent the area and be the go-to drink people order when they belly up at bars throughout the region.
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You see Central Florida doesn't have a regional cocktail. We have beers, wines, even our own vodka but no signature cocktail. Luckily that is about to change thanks to local celebrity food critic Scott Joseph. On Thursday, February 14, 2013 he announced that his site would be looking to find the perfect cocktail to represent Central Florida.
From the post...
"I’m announcing the SJO search for the cocktail that will represent the area and be the go-to drink people order when they belly up at bars throughout the region.
So I’m calling all local bartenders, mixologists and lounge lizards alike to nominate a drink to be considered for the title of Official Cocktail of Orlando and Central Florida. To nominate yourself or a favorite bartender or drink, just leave a comment below. Each entry will be considered by me and a panel of judges. The finalists will be invited to mix their cocktails for the judges at a drink off to be announced later."
The contest will go through March 6. To apply add a comment on the post. Currently at least three cocktails have been submitted.
You may recall that the Audubon Park District had a contest in 2012 where it sought it's own district cocktail.