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Celebrate World Cocktail Day in Cardiff
Monday, 13 May 2024
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant cocktail scene this World Cocktail Day on 13th May. From exclusive discounts to unique Welsh concoctions, learn where to celebrate and the craft behind each drink.
Introduction to World Cocktail Day
World Cocktail Day traces its origins back to May 13th, 1806, when the term “cocktail” was first defined in print. In Cardiff, the cocktail landscape is rich and varied, providing numerous opportunities to engage with the city’s mixology scene and celebrate the craft’s evolution.
Raising a Glass in Cardiff: Where to Celebrate
Cardiff’s got a great bar scene, and World Cocktail Day is the perfect reason to check some of them out.
The Alchemist offers a unique bar experience where mixology meets chemistry, creating an intriguing atmosphere. The decor is sleek and modern, setting the stage for a sophisticated night out. Bartenders here are skilled in their craft, preparing each cocktail with precision, resulting in drinks that are both visually impressive and delicious. Expect cocktails like ‘The Mad Hatters’, which combine smoke and science for a dramatic effect. It’s a place to enjoy inventive drinks, good food, and the company of friends in a vibrant setting.
Gin & Juice is a standout spot in Cardiff’s cocktail scene, known for its extensive collection of over 400 gins. Each visit offers a chance to explore different flavours, with botanical and juniper taking centre stage. The atmosphere strikes a balance between chic and cosy, making it a prime location for enjoying live music on Friday nights. The staff’s dedication to top-notch service ensures that everyone who walks in gets the VIP treatment. True to Cardiff’s inclusive vibe, Gin & Juice is a walk-in-friendly establishment where a spontaneous drop-in is part of the charm, embodying the city’s friendly and lively character.
A Welsh Cocktail to try: Gin & Juice has a selection of 15 Welsh gins. Explore the Welsh heritage with a cocktail crafted from Tenby Welsh Cake gin or the GWYR Bara Brith, each telling its own story of regional flavours and traditions.
Flight Club Cardiff adds a fun twist to the usual darts bar, with a variety of games and a great selection of cocktails to enjoy. The place is decked out with playful decorations and offers a lovely heated rooftop terrace. It’s all about having a good time, throwing darts, and sipping on your favourite drinks in a laid-back setting.
Revs De Cuba brings Cardiff a taste of Latin American flair, inviting guests to dive into a world of flavourful tapas and Latin-inspired dishes accompanied by a soundtrack of live music. In this Cuban-inspired setting, the cocktail menu takes centre stage, offering a selection of rum-based classics like Mojitos and Daiquiris, crafted with a variety of rums and fresh ingredients. It’s a dynamic space where the colourful culture of Havana meets Cardiff’s own spirited character, perfect for those with a zest for life and a love for the rhythmic pulse of Latin beats.
Step into Alcotraz for a bar experience with a twist. As an ‘inmate’, you’ll smuggle in your own alcohol and watch the bartenders transform it into unique cocktails. The immersive setting has you dodging ‘The Warden’ in a game of secrecy and suspense. No menu means each drink is a custom surprise, crafted by staff who are in on the escape plan. It’s a mix of speakeasy charm and escape room excitement.
A Welsh cocktail to try: For a truly local experience, sneak in a bottle of Cardiff Dry Gin. Watch as the mixologists cleverly incorporate your contraband into stunning Welsh-inspired cocktails, ensuring each sip is laced with Cardiff’s own spirited history.
Lab 22
22 Caroline St, Cardiff, CF10 1FG
Lab 22 stands out as a cocktail bar that prioritises innovative mixology, located on Caroline Street. It’s a destination for those looking for unique drinking experiences that diverge from the norm. Known for its creative approach, Lab 22 has established a reputation for blending inventive cocktails with a nod to local culture. The emphasis is on crafting exceptional drinks that both surprise and satisfy, mixed by bartenders with a flair for the experimental.
The Botanist blends the charm of a classic pub with the innovation of a contemporary cocktail bar, emphasising botanical-rich drinks. Mixologists here are dedicated to creating unique cocktails, while the food menu offers a satisfying mix of deli, rotisserie, and BBQ options. With live music adding to the atmosphere, this venue is decorated with interesting artefacts, offering guests a distinctive experience with every visit.
Rum & Fizz is a charming spot known for its skilled cocktail crafting, particularly with rum. The decor strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, with detailed tiles and velvet chairs. The bar also specialises in champagne and sparkling wines, adding a touch of sophistication. Seamlessly connected to Coffee Barker, it’s easy for guests to transition from coffee to cocktails, enjoying live music in a welcoming atmosphere. Drop in anytime to enjoy a casually upscale experience.
A Welsh Cocktail to try: Choose from a selection of four Welsh rums, such as the Wreckers Welsh Rum or the seaweed-infused Barti Ddu, and let the bartender create a rum cocktail that is a true homage to Welsh culture.
Las Iguanas brings the zest of Latin American dining to the heart of Cardiff, with a lively atmosphere that mirrors the region’s energetic spirit. The menu draws inspiration from across Brazil, Mexico, and Peru, created by chefs with a clear passion for their craft. The restaurant is known for its colourful decor and a daily 2-for-1 cocktail offer that adds to the festive feel. Both the Mill Lane and Mermaid Quay locations capture the essence of Latin America in their own unique ways.
Revolution
9-11 Castle Street, Cardiff CF10 1BS
Revolution Cardiff is a cornerstone of the local nightlife scene, offering a varied experience to suit different preferences. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails near the historic Cardiff Castle, dance in the lively club room, or relax in the vodka garden. The venue is designed for celebrations, with a bar team known for their energetic service and colourful cocktails. Revolution provides a tailored party atmosphere with its own distinctive style.
The Dead Canary
The Dead Canary is a speakeasy bar that captures the underground vibe of the jazz era with a contemporary edge. Tucked away and awaiting discovery, it offers an engaging blend of history-infused cocktails and attentive service. Guests can expect an immersive experience with live music accenting the ambience. Here, every visit is meant to be an extraordinary departure from the routine.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
3 Mill Lane, Cardiff CF10 1FL
Pitch Bar & Eatery demonstrates a dedication to local flavours, offering a menu that features contemporary takes on Welsh cuisine. The venue focuses on utilising high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, delivering a cocktail experience that is both sophisticated and genuine. Their meticulously selected and expertly mixed array of beverages is designed to enhance the hearty flavours of Wales, fostering a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere ideal for an unforgettable night out.
A Welsh Cocktail to try: Pitch capture the essence of Wales with its ‘Welsh Garden’ cocktail, an intricate blend of gin, fresh cucumber, and blackberry with a fizz of lemonade.
The Bootlegger
5, Womanby Street, Cardiff CF10 1BR
The Bootlegger in Cardiff pays homage to the prohibition era, infused with local Welsh flavour. This two-tiered venue offers a lively cocktail lounge on the upper floor, where the ambience is set by the rhythm of cocktail preparation. Below, a music venue comes alive with an array of live bands and DJs, catering to those who appreciate a good beat. It’s a place where the city’s appreciation for quality music and crafted drinks comes together.
Penny Royal
Penny Royal is a distinguished bar known for its commitment to the art of cocktail making. It has earned national acclaim for its innovative approach since its inception. The bar features themed menus that display a range of flavours and originality, reflecting the team’s drive for excellence and tailored service. The crafted cocktails are designed to be memorable, ensuring each visit is a notable experience.
Be at One
Be at One Cardiff is a hub for cocktail enthusiasts, featuring a diverse selection of over 100 cocktails. The bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere, amplified by a wallet-friendly Happy Hour. The skilled and personable staff enhance the experience, ensuring that each visit is unforgettable. It’s a go-to spot for an energetic night out in Cardiff, with a soundtrack that matches the lively spirit of its guests.
Exclusive Offers
Cardiff rolls out the red carpet for cocktail aficionados with offers such as Turtle Bay’s free cocktails from May 9th to 25th and The Sorting Room’s 25% off all cocktails from May 11th to 13th. Be At One Cardiff offers a complimentary round of Raspberry Beret cocktails exclusively on May 13th—book your spot to celebrate in style.
As World Cocktail Day approaches, Cardiff’s vibrant bars and distilleries are ready to welcome you into a world of refined tastes and exuberant celebrations. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply cocktail-curious, Cardiff is the stage for an unforgettable performance of mixological marvels. Cheers to the spirit of celebration!
FAQs on World Cocktail Day in Cardiff
World Cocktail Day is a global celebration recognising the joy and culture surrounding cocktail creation and enjoyment. It’s commemorated on May 13th, heralding the publication date of the first definition of a cocktail back in 1806.
In Cardiff, World Cocktail Day is celebrated around the 13th of May, with various events and promotions starting as early as the 9th and extending through the 25th of May.
Yes, distilleries like In the Welsh Wind and Spirit of Wales Distillery offer tours and tastings that coincide with World Cocktail Day celebrations, providing an immersive experience into the craft of distilling.
Certainly! Here’s a simple Welsh cocktail recipe that you can try at home:
Welsh Dragon
- 50ml Welsh whisky
- 25ml red vermouth
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- A small spoon of brown sugar
- Orange peel for garnish
In a mixing glass, combine the whisky, vermouth, bitters, and brown sugar with ice. Stir until well-chilled and the sugar has dissolved. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
While specific competitions may vary from year to year, Cardiff’s bars and mixologists often engage in friendly rivalries and showcase events to celebrate World Cocktail Day. Keep an eye out for announcements from local establishments such as The Dead Canary and Penny Royal, known for their creative mixology events.
Participating is easy! Head to any cocktail-serving venue in Cardiff and ask the bartender for a recommendation. Many places will have special menus or creations specifically for World Cocktail Day.
While there’s no official signature cocktail, many bars will create special drinks for the occasion. Trying a cocktail with a Welsh theme, such as the ‘Welsh Garden’ from Pitch Bar & Eatery or a Welsh gin-based drink from Gin & Juice, is a great way to honour the local spirit of the day.
