Tales of the Cocktail is set to return July 20 through July 25 in New Orleans. The local, national and international non-profit organization seeks to act as a catalyst to educate, advance and support the hospitality industry in adjacent communities.
The 19th annual Spirited Awards® have been announced, with Erika Flowers of Compère Lapin nominated as U.S. bartender of the year and The Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone and Chandelier Bar at the Four Seasons amongst the best U.S. hotel bar nominees. Arnaud’s has been nominated as best restaurant bar.
Since its founding in 2007, the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards has become one of the industry’s most sought-after awards, recognizing beverage professionals, products, and establishments across every facet of the spirits and cocktail community on a global scale. In partnership with official media partner, Forbes, TOTCF will honor recipients during the Tales of the Cocktail® conference, which is celebrating its 23rd year in New Orleans, July 20-25, 2025.
The Spirited Awards honor excellence across the global bar industry, recognizing achievements in both domestic and international categories. The program includes awards for writing and media, as well as top honors that celebrate the best in the world—such as World’s Best Cocktail Bar and World’s Best Cocktail Menu.
The following events will take place:
Watch the nation’s best bartenders compete head-to-head on July 20 at The Republic NOLA from 3-7 p.m. during Speed Rack’s Season 13 National Finals. Speed Rack is the all-femme speed-bartending competition that raises money to fight breast cancer. Cheer on the regional winners from Chicago, Denver, NYC, Portland, Boston, and DC as they compete through timed challenges, each vying for the Speed Rack National Champion crown. All proceeds from this event will go to breast cancer education, prevention and research. Purchase your tickets HERE.
On Tuesday, July 22, from 4-7 p.m., Carlos Kennedy-Lopez (head bartender of Lolita in NYC) is hosting a fundraising pop-up at Anna’s Nola. The self-funded event is dedicated to raising money for LOUD Nola, an unapologetic queer and trans youth theater that comes together in solidarity to build community and control the narratives shared about their lives. LOUD is rooted in undoing oppression, youth leadership, solidarity, and commitment to devised theater.The stellar line-up of bartenders includes Dante Lopez (BarChef New York), Steph Sachi Matsumura (The Modern), Bea Polanco (Junebug and Barrel Proof), Michael Aredes (Superbueno), Carlos Flores (Bar Goyana), and Indee Mitchell. There will also be live music by Phlegm. Carlos’ focus is to have all participants within the LGBTQ+ diaspora, thus lifting and exalting queer voices. Raise a glass to support LOUD and be part of a night that celebrates resilience and authenticity.
On July 24 from 1- 6 p.m. at Mambo’s (411 Bourbon Street), The Dead Rabbit is joining forces with BAR 1661, Swift NYC, Nickel City, and others for “Irish House,” a townhouse showcasing the best of Irish drinks, hospitality, and culture. Look out for special serves from The Dead Rabbit, including the Shape Shifter (Guinness, Mad March Hare Poitín, red cherry, habanero, Poachers ginger beer) and Currant Affairs (Guinness Amaro, Valentia Island Vermouth, blackcurrant, vanilla, club soda). RSVP HERE.
