Iowa bartenders will battle at Smash Park for the title of top mixologist

Brian Taylor Carlson
The Des Moines Register

Competitors from across the state will come together to find out who has what it takes to become the state's top mixologist.
 
The Iowa Restaurant Association will host its annual State Mixology Championships on Thursday, April 25 at Smash Park, 6625 Coachlight Drive in West Des Moines.

During the day, competitors will create three cocktails for a panel of judges. Each drink will be rated on taste, appearance, overall creativity and personality. The contest's winner will be crowned Iowa's Top Mixologist for 2019.

Alpine Negroni with a sprig of pine frozen into the cube at the Whiskey House and Bourbon Grill in Ankeny.

Competing restaurants and bars

Attendees will be able to sample competitors' drinks and vote for a People's Choice winner. The event will run from 6-8 p.m. and is open to the public. Limited tickets are available for $30 per person and can be purchased at restaurantiowa.com.

Food samples will be available, along with live music from Brian Congdon. Spirits will be sponsored by Sazerac and Diageo.

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