Sip back & relax at the Tucson City of Gastronomy’s Cocktail Challenge

For those looking for a cocktail that’ll knock their socks off, keep scrolling. The Tucson City of Gastronomy is shakin’ up the perfect event this month.

From 5:30 – 9 p.m. on Friday, October 21, six of Tucson’s finest mixologists will be creating concoctions and hoping for your vote in this year’s Cocktail Challenge. The crafty occasion is happening at The Monica, located at 40 E. Congress St.

The bartenders competing in the challenge are all mixologists from restaurants certified by the Tucson City of Gastronomy. The cocktails will showcase local and heritage ingredients with a big emphasis on the city’s terroir and gastronomic history.

Cocktail Challenge Mixologists

• Donna Francis, Union Public House
• Alfredo Aguilar, Zio Peppe
• Luis Alcala, The Delta
• Sherra Whittaker, Blue Willow
• Carlos Rodriguez, PY Steakhouse
• Katie Wisdom, The Parish 

The local beverage magician that stirs and mixes up the best cocktail will receive $250 and their cocktail will be named “TCoG Cocktail of the Year.” Over time, the cocktail will be featured at other various happenings in Tucson.

Tickets to this year’s event are $70 per person and include hors d’oeuvres prepared by chef Danny Perez, tastings of each cocktail, and then an opportunity to vote.

Cocktail Challenge Dinner Menu

• Shrimp Crudite – with a cucumber Fresno relish
• Hola Hemp Chipotle Tamalito – with a cilantro crema
• Chicken Artichoke Skewer – with herb gremolata
• Mushroom Bruschetta
• Tepary Bean Hummus,
• Top Chef’s Blackberry Carne Seca
• Poblano Crema De Elote Soup Shooter
• Cotija Corn Rib

The event is a fundraiser for the non-profit Tucson City of Gastronomy, which is the organization managing UNESCO’s designation of Tucson. Whenever possible, the group behind the scenes promotes talent and creativity among local farmers, ranchers, chefs, food workers, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and local food businesses.

The Monica is located at 40 E. Congress St. For more information and to purchase a ticket, visit eventbrite.com.