Austin, November 27, 2025
Twelve local Austin bars are participating in the Holiday Coquito Competition, a nationwide event celebrating the traditional Puerto Rican cocktail. Organized by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and BACARDÍ USA, the competition highlights innovative interpretations of coquito, with the best bartenders qualifying for Coquito Throwdown events in January 2026. The contest aims to unite the bartending community while showcasing the festive drink known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Residents and visitors can expect to taste unique coquito variations crafted by talented local bartenders.
Austin Bars Compete in National Coquito Cocktail Contest
Austin, Texas – Twelve local bars are participating in the Holiday Coquito Competition, a nationwide event organized by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation in partnership with BACARDÍ USA. The competition aims to celebrate the traditional Puerto Rican coquito cocktail, with the top bartenders from each city advancing to Coquito Throwdown events in January 2026.
Participating Austin Bars
The following Austin bars are showcasing their unique coquito creations:
- Over Under
- Amelia’s
- Holiday
- Firehouse Lounge
- Este
- Hestia
- The Dead Rabbit Austin
- Veracruz Fonda & Bar
- Caña Rum Bar
- Brews & Bites
- Merry Mashups
- Grandma’s Recipes
- Barbacoa Tamal de
Competition Details
The Holiday Coquito Competition is open to bartenders aged 25 or older currently working at bars in participating cities, including Austin. Each bartender is required to create a coquito recipe that incorporates BACARDÍ Ocho rum. The competition timeline is as follows:
- September 2025: Registration opens online
- October 24, 2025: Registration closes online
- November 1 – December 31, 2025: In-bar education, menu placements, and blind judging
- December 19, 2025: Coquito Throwdown qualifiers notified online
- January 1 – 31, 2026: Coquito Throwdown events in participating cities
- March 2026: Winners’ educational trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico
The top eight bartenders from each city will advance to the Coquito Throwdown events, where they will showcase their creations for a chance to win an educational trip to Casa BACARDÍ in Puerto Rico.
Background on Coquito
Coquito, often referred to as “Puerto Rican eggnog,” is a traditional holiday drink made with rum, evaporated milk, coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, and spices. Its rich and creamy flavor has made it a festive favorite among many. The Holiday Coquito Competition encourages bartenders to put their own twist on this classic recipe, celebrating both tradition and innovation.
About the Organizers
The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the global cocktail community through education, advocacy, and events. In partnership with BACARDÍ USA, they have organized the Holiday Coquito Competition to highlight the cultural significance of coquito and support the bartending community.
Looking Ahead
As the competition progresses, Austin residents and visitors have the opportunity to experience a diverse range of coquito variations crafted by local bartenders. The upcoming Coquito Throwdown events in January 2026 will provide a platform for these talented individuals to showcase their skills on a national stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Holiday Coquito Competition?
- The Holiday Coquito Competition is a nationwide event organized by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation in partnership with BACARDÍ USA, celebrating the traditional Puerto Rican coquito cocktail.
- Which Austin bars are participating in the competition?
- The participating Austin bars are Over Under, Amelia’s, Holiday, Firehouse Lounge, Este, Hestia, The Dead Rabbit Austin, Veracruz Fonda & Bar, Caña Rum Bar, Brews & Bites, Merry Mashups, Grandma’s Recipes, and Barbacoa Tamal de.
- What is coquito?
- Coquito is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink made with rum, evaporated milk, coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, and spices, known for its rich and creamy flavor.
- How can I participate in the competition?
- The competition is open to bartenders aged 25 or older currently working at bars in participating cities, including Austin. Each bartender is required to create a coquito recipe that incorporates BACARDÍ Ocho rum.
- What is the prize for the competition?
- The top eight bartenders from each city will advance to the Coquito Throwdown events, where they will showcase their creations for a chance to win an educational trip to Casa BACARDÍ in Puerto Rico.
| Participating Austin Bars |
|---|
| Over Under |
| Amelia’s |
| Holiday |
| Firehouse Lounge |
| Este |
| Hestia |
| The Dead Rabbit Austin |
| Veracruz Fonda & Bar |
| Caña Rum Bar |
| Brews & Bites |
| Merry Mashups |
| Grandma’s Recipes |
| Barbacoa Tamal de |
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