Jasper’s, Trick Dog Among Nominees for 2013 Spirited Awards
Although the list was once again dominated by New York, a few locals have made the final list of 10 finalists for this year’s Spirited Awards, recognizing the best in bars and bartenders around the world.
The event, which will be held as part of the annual Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans in July, honors the best of the best in the cocktail and spirit industry.
In the category of “Best American Cocktail Bar,” Prizefighter in Emeryville is among the final 10. Since opening in 2011, the bar, from co-owners Jon Santer, Dylan O’Brien and Polly Hancock, has been one of the most highly respected in the Bay Area, especially in the industry.
Among the nominees for “Best Restaurant Bar,” Jasper’s Corner Tap & Kitchen is a finalist. Bar manager Kevin Diedrich has always had one of the most consistent and unique cocktail menus in town, including his ever-popular beer cocktails and cocktails on tap.
Previous Coverage: A look at the cocktails of Kevin Diedrich
In the category “World’s Best New Cocktail Bar,” Trick Dog is a finalist. The latest venture from the Bon Vivants, Scott Baird and Josh Harris, has been the talk of San Francisco since opening, not only for its cocktails, but also its food program.
A pair of locals, Jackie Paterson with Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur and Neyah White with Yamazaki are finalists in the “Best American Brand Ambassador” category. And Julie Bermejo with the famed Tommy’s in San Francisco is a nominee for “Best Bar Mentor.”
The top four finalists will be narrowed down again on June 7 and invited to the awards ceremony. The 2013 Spirited Awards take place on July 20.
