Cocktails that will never disappoint

I've always been a big fan of this raucous spot's blend of true tapas, casual atmosphere and high energy. But let's face it: The mojitos here rock. Classically made Cuban-style with rum, sugar and muddled mint, only Castro could find room for complaint.

1186 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta. 404-873-4656,

There are lots of margaritas to love here, but my favorite is the naughty blend of Herradura Reposado, orange liqueur and fresh citrus sour mix. Make mine on the rocks with salt, please.

3073 Piedmont Road, Atlanta. 404-262-3336,

Dorothy Parker and James Thurber famously pondered the effects of more than one martini on human faculties, but who's counting? Not me. I'll belly up to the bar at Buckhead Diner any time to swill one of the spot's perfectly crafted dirty martinis, made with gin, lots of olives and olive juice. Slurp.

MARKET not rated
Inside the W Buckhead, 3377 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta. 404-523-3600, www.starwoodhotels.com

Look for my review of Jean-Georges Vongerichten's second Atlanta locale in an upcoming Go Guide, but while you're waiting, make a barstool your perch and enjoy a truly fabulous cocktail: the Market Maple Rye. A smooth blend of Rittenhouse rye whiskey, maple syrup and muddled oranges mingles playfully in a rocks glass with cranberries as garnish.

Inside the Alliance Center, 3500 Lenox Road N.E., Suite 100, Atlanta. 404-231-0001,

Tom Catherall's all-things-Ajan concept in Emeril's old spot is reviewed on the front of Go Guide today. While you're ruminating over that, enjoy one of the barkeep's best kept secrets, the restaurant's mod take on a Singapore sling — a smooth but bubbly blend of gin, cherry liqueur and angostura bitters with fresh lemon and a splash of soda.