Blame it on warm weather, light breezes or late sunsets, but this time of year calls for unwinding with a cocktail while relaxing with friends. Inside or outside the perimeter, from Avalon to the Westside, here are 11 places to celebrate spring, drink in hand.
Colletta at Avalon in Alpharetta. After a round of shopping, grab a seat on the patio and indulge in the refreshing Padre Dolce with amaro fizz, lemon, aromatic thyme bitters and raw honey, or the Arancione, an Italian orange cream soda- a summery mocktail favorite.
The Bishop in Avondale Estates. Ready for something unique? Shrubs showcase the cocktail menu at this neighborhood gathering place. These lovely liqueurs, made from alcohol, sugar and fruit, offer a vibrant spritz of spring. Shrub-infused cocktails include the Captured Queen with blueberry shrub, Myers rum, lime and Luxardo. Not a fan of blueberries? Try this libation with strawberry-peppercorn shrub instead.
Doraku Sushi in Buckhead. Aside from their signature sake, Doraku boasts several fresh, innovative cocktails that are perfect for the spring season. Favorites include their signature Lychee Martini made with Smirnoff vodka and lychee puree and garnished with lychee fruit. You'll also want to sample the Geisha's Whisper, incorporating gin, yumberry, St. Germaine and fresh lemon.
Agave in Cabbagetown. Enjoy a bit of the southwest, right in the heart of Atlanta. Agave is hosting an extended Cinco de Mayo Weekend from May 1 – May 5. Indulge in traditional Mexican fare and Lunazul margaritas, in addition to the regular menu.
Chai Pani in Decatur. Welcome warm weather by sipping cocktail creations inspired by the tastes of India and lounging on the patio with friends. Start with a refreshing East India G&T, with Bombay Dry Gin, juniper berries, lemon peel, Fever-Tree tonic water and a cucumber garnish. Ready for another? Try the Aromatic Rickey made from Tito's infused lindenflower, elderberry, roobis, orange peel, spices, dried raspberry, hibiscus, Kashmiri chili, house orange bitters, lemon and demerara.
Polaris in Downtown. Polaris updated its cocktail menu to reflect spring's bright flavors and sunny temps. New additions to the rotating lounge's offerings include the Vida Domaine featuring Mezcal, ginger liqueur, lemon and honey, and the Side Saddle, which includes cognac, orange liqueur, honey, lemon and grapefruit bitters garnished with a lemon peel. Fun fact? The honey in these cocktails comes straight from Polaris' very own bee garden, located atop the Hyatt Regency Atlanta hotel.
STK Atlanta in Midtown. Whether you select a cocktail off the weekend B.A.D.A.S.S. menu (Hello! $7 Belvedere drinks!) or you indulge in a spring cocktail from the regular dining menu, you'll need to brace yourself. This isn't your daddy's steakhouse, and we aren't raiding granny's liquor cabinet. Try the Cucumber Stiletto, with Ketel One Citron, St. Germain, muddled cucumber and mint. Vodka lovers will also want to try the Midtown Elixir, Belvedere, fresh lemon, elderflower and prosecco.
4th & Swift in Old Fourth Ward. Many people think of incorporating blossoming fruit into their spring cocktails; 4th & Swift bar manager Chris Gianaras chose to experiment with vegetables this season. Highlights from the spring menu include the Baltic Avenue made with Old Fourth Distillery vodka, The King's ginger, beets, black pepper-honey shrub, lemon, fennel pollen and fennel bitters. You'll also want to partake in the Hells Bells, featuring Partida Tequila Reposado, green chartreuse, charred bell pepper, pineapple, jalapeño, lime and Hellfire shrub. Need more? Try the Garden District featuring a blend of Jasmine vodka, strawberry, balsamic, basil, agave, lemon, Grains of Paradise and celery bitters.
Osteria Mattone in Roswell. Roswell's neighborhood Italian destination is toasting spring with a few fabulous cocktails. Dine on the beautiful, sun-lit patio. Enjoy simple, refreshing drinks including the Negroni with Plymouth gin, Campari and vermouth, as well the Sgroppino with vodka, lemon sorbet, lemon juice and Prosecco.
Sweet Auburn Barbecue in Sweet Auburn. Everyone loves the barbecue, but the cocktails are worthy as well. Sip on a glass of Angels and Demons, a blend of Camarena tequila, cassis, pineapple, lime, Fernet Branca and ginger beer. Best cocktail name ever? Try Honey, the cat is on fire!, with Cathead honeysuckle vodka, peche de vigne, lemon, spicy ginger and Breckenridge bitters. Go for the barbecue. Stay for the cocktails.
Miller Union in Westside. The cocktail program mirrors the restaurant's culinary philosophy; fresh, high-quality ingredients reign in the kitchen and behind the bar. Highlights from the spring menu include Strawberry Fields, made with bourbon, strawberry, lime and agave and Purple Rain featuring four-year rum, dry curacao, elderberry shrub and lemon.
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