Paso Robles bar seeks entries for bartending contest
Finalists will be selected to compete live on June 9
– The Alchemists’ Garden has opened entries for the 2025 spring round of its annual bartending competition. Bartenders from the Central Coast and beyond are invited to submit original cocktail recipes for a chance to compete in the live finals on June 9 at The Alchemists’ Garden in Paso Robles.
“There’s nothing that brings people together quite like a little friendly competition,” said Quin Cody, co-owner of The Alchemists’ Garden. “Our goal is to unite the hospitality community through shared knowledge, creative expression, and a spirit of growth. For us, it’s about more than just cocktails, it’s about connection, inspiration, and elevating the craft together.”
This season, the competition is in partnership with Bacardi and will feature two rums as the base spirits: Bacardi Ocho and Havana Club Blanco. Participants must submit two original cocktail recipes, one for each rum. Each cocktail must include a minimum of 1.5 ounces of the featured spirit, and may include any additional spirits or modifiers.
Entrants must also include a brief narrative explaining the inspiration or creative process behind each cocktail, a photo of each finished drink, and their name and contact information.
Submissions will be judged blindly by a panel of industry professionals and community figures. Judges will evaluate entries based on originality and creativity, flavor balance and technical execution, narrative and presentation, and sustainability and ingredient intentionality.
Finalists will be notified on May 31 and invited to participate in the live public showcase in June. Awards will include first, second, and third place Judges’ Choice honors, as well as a People’s Choice award selected by guest voting at the June 9 event. All winners will be invited to compete in the 2026 Grand Finals.
For more information or to enter, visit www.alchemistsgarden.com/bar-competition.
