A few of my favorite spots for cocktails in New Smyrna Beach!
First and foremost….anywhere mixologist Tyler Hollingsworth is mixing. You can find him most Sundays at the beautiful, charming Riverpark Terrace for brunch. With Tyler, there’s no thinking involved, I tell him what I am in the mood for, or pick my poison and let the man do what he does best. I have never once been disappointed, it’s usually a first sip and I get over the top excited about his creation. He hits the nail on the head, every.single.time. . It’s always an extra added touch when he says let me go to the garden real quick and come back with fresh herbs. Like, seriously? You can also find him throughout the week at Sugar Works Distillery located at 214 N Orange St.
We love hanging out at Tayton O’Bryan’s for a more casual setting. It’s an Irish Pub locally owned & operated. They are a full service liquor bar and have a HUGE selection of beers, over 200 beers to choose from. I am a HUGE fan of their holiday season beers, YES I am that chick! And they will give you the cinnamon sugar rim upon request… I may or may not have played a part in that years ago after moving here from Ohio and suggesting that!
Every Tuesday night is ladies night from 9pm-12am, 2-4-1 drinks (ALL Drinks). Kids EAT FREE Thursday 4-
Wed and Friday nights are for Karaoke, Saturdays live rock music, and Sundays are for cowboys and cowgirls, live country entertainment. I usually don’t sip without at least a small bite or 2, so I must make mention of their fresh hand cut fries and gravy. Do NOT leave without ordering them! Trust me!! Other favorite munchies include their ZOMBIE wings, they are absolute fire, the scotch eggs, and I love their French Dip baby Dip! Connor’s Corner in the back of the property has a whole vibe, fire pits weather permitting and couches for lounging. Fun Fact, my-go-to spot for St Patty’s Day, every single year!
Have you been to Third Wave Cafe? If not, this spot is a must. Located on Flagler Ave, the back of the house, tucked away is a magical courtyard surrounded by bamboo. My favorite seat is right at the bar. The bartenders are always friendly. I love the fresh, hand squeezed skinny margaritas. Their mimosas hit differently during brunch, and I love their espresso martinis, and they have been very consistent with any specialty cocktail they may be featuring. I highly encourage you to order the burrata app while sipping. I have turned so many friends onto this appetizer!
The Garlic is my jam for dessert martinis. I absolutely LOVE the Almond Joy, it is 1 of my favorite cocktails, period! Dressed in chocolate fudgy syrup, nuts and coconut flakes. We always sit at the Blu Bar, personable bartenders, and live music every night. The ambiance here is like no other, I always bring out of town guests for a visit. I have indulged in delicious wine selections from time to time, but the Almond Joy is my absolute favorite.
Ever had a cocktail in a treehouse? Well you can in NSB at Norwood’s Eatery & Bar, the Treehouse Bar is for adults only 21+. I am currently making my way through their specialty cocktail list. 1 of my most favorite cocktails from there was their Cocotini, they have retired this cocktail but I am putting it out there now as a special request to BRING IT BACK! It is missed dearly. They have an extensive spirits list from bourbons, tequilas, vodkas, gin, whiskey and more. Another must do while visiting NSB. Killer atmosphere.
When I am in the mood for beer and wings, or any straightforward beverage like seltzers, screwball(peanut butter whiskey on the rocks) and delicious wings, a casual setting…Merk’s Bar & Grill is the place to be. Kay the GM is fantastic to her staff and guests. She has always been extremely accommodating and friendly. Service is always consistent there, and you can’t visit without ordering Frankenstein wings grilled and retossed, trust me, you will thank me!
Last but not least, The Bounty Speakeasy above Flagler Tavern. We have been regulars for a couple of years now. I like to go here for a nice night cap following dinner. I have always enjoyed the espresso martinis here. The monkey business is another cocktail I fancy. This fall they released an incredible holiday cocktail menu. On that menu was the fallejuah, an espresso martini topped with a pumpkin spiced froth. Let me tell you, I went a bit overboard with this drink, I just couldn’t get enough of it! It was so delicious and perfectly balanced. Another cocktail I enjoy that has been newly released is the Sassy Pineapple made with mezcal. I’m typically not a mezcal fan, but with their perfection in mixing all the delicious ingredients, I really enjoy this drink. I love the vibe here, it’s dimly lit at night with red light vibes. Cozy, intimate and chill. Looking forward to their new holiday release of cocktails for December.