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The bartenders at these establishments are passionate about their craft, and you can truly taste their commitment and creativity in every innovative drink they serve. Each concoction reflects their artistry the moment you sit down to order. Yet, a fantastic drink is just part of the experience; the warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere of these places truly enhance your time spent there. With so many fantastic options for craft cocktails and mocktails in Rochester, here are some of my personal favorites.

Aqua Vitae

Aqua Vitae is a must-visit tequila and mezcal bar that truly has something for everyone. Known for its intricate flavors and expertly crafted cocktails, the bar aims to "bring liquid to life" in every glass. With its warm and casual atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a drink.

Make sure to say hi to Joe and Matt! While you're there, don’t miss out on the Jungle Bat, a vibrant cocktail that perfectly balances the smoky notes of mezcal with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple and a hint of tangy kimchi melon shrub. For those preferring a non-alcoholic option, it can be easily transformed into a delightful mocktail by substituting soda, creating a lovely pineapple and kimchi melon shrub soda that's just as refreshing!

For more information, visit Aqua Vitae's website or check them out on Instagram at @aquavitaeroc.

Elevated Sol

Elevated Sol is the newest addition to Rochester's craft cocktail scene, with its grand opening just around the corner. This Latin soul food fusion restaurant offers a menu of Latin-centric beverages in a speakeasy atmosphere, all nestled within the historic Rockford building.

The elevated lounge and bar provide a fantastic happy hour experience from Tuesday to Saturday, 4:30–7 PM, featuring $10 martinis and Manhattans, 2-for-1 margaritas, as well as wine and beer specials for those who prefer something different.

Be sure to say hi to Tony and Eddie during your visit! While you’re there, try The Cider Noir, a refreshing mocktail that blends apple and lemon with bold espresso and hints of coconut, enhanced by a dash of Turkish tobacco bitters. This light-bodied drink perfectly balances tartness with a touch of spice and nutty undertones for a uniquely flavorful experience.

Another standout is The Miracle, a captivating cocktail that combines gin and mezcal with the refreshing essence of lime and floral notes of St. Germain. Each sip reveals unique flavors, making it my all-time favorite.

For more information, visit Elevated Sol's website or check them out on Instagram at @elevatedsolllc.

Leonores

Leonores brings a unique twist to Rochester’s dining scene with its leaning Thai cuisine and open fire kitchen. This spot focuses on seasonal, intentional ingredients and offers a menu of dreamy cocktails that beautifully blend Thai and tiki flavors—combinations you might not expect, but that work harmoniously together.

Join them for happy hour daily from 5–6 PM, and don’t forget to say hi to Flo!

While you’re there, try her Beet-chotan Negroni, which features beet-infused Campari, Montenegro, Japanese gin, and blood orange apéritif. Inspired by a love for beets and a desire to soften the Negroni’s usual sweetness and bitterness, this drink adds earthy depth and vibrant color, highlighting fresh, local beets from the Fingerlakes Farm Collective.

If you're looking for something non-alcoholic, consider the To the Moon. This refreshing mocktail blends turmeric, carrot, lemon, and sparkling tea, offering a unique and healthful twist that perfectly complements the seasonal flavors at Leonores.

For more information, visit Leonores' website or check them out on Instagram at @iloveleonores.

Revelry

Revelry offers a delightful fusion of Southern cuisine and craft cocktails, nestled in the vibrant Neighborhood of the Arts. Known for its artisanal approach, this creative spot is perfect for Sunday brunch and features enticing specials like $1 oysters on Wednesdays.

Be sure to say hi to CJ and Keelan during your visit! While you’re there, don’t miss the new Autumn Beach cocktail, a refreshing blend of gin and tropical flavors with a warm spice finish, topped with a delicious apple cinnamon and citrus foam. It’s the perfect taste of fall and summer in every sip.

For a delicious zero-proof option, try Sgt. Pepper, one of my all-time favorites, made with lemon, arugula, bell pepper, and black pepper.

For more information, visit Revelry's website or check them out on Instagram at @therevelryroc.

Alt Bar

Alt Bar is Rochester’s newly opened go-to nonalcoholic bar and bottle shop, offering a refreshing alternative with carefully crafted non-alcoholic cocktails, mocktails, and shots. The cozy seating areas are perfect for relaxing with friends, and you can enjoy board games while sipping on delicious booze-free beverages.

Join the fun during happy hour trivia on Wednesdays at 6 PM, featuring $8 weekly cocktails.

Be sure to try The For Fig's Sake, a refreshing, bittersweet drink with warm spices and herbal notes that balances earthy flavors with a light, citrusy finish for a perfectly layered experience. Another must-try is The Golden Hour, a vibrant mix of honey, fig, and herbal notes, balanced with lemon and ginger. Its layers of sweetness and spice make it the perfect drink to enjoy as the sun sets.

For more information, visit Alt Bar's website or check them out on Instagram at @altbarroc.

Rochester Cocktail Revival

For a truly immersive experience of Rochester’s cocktail scene, don’t miss the Rochester Cocktail Revival (RCR), typically held every June. As New York State’s only annual weeklong spirits festival, RCR offers a variety of events, including paired dinners, spirit tastings, educational seminars, live music, and the thrilling Bar Room Battle Royal, where local mixologists compete for fun and bragging rights. If you have a love for the craft, this festival is a must-attend event that celebrates creativity and innovation in the world of cocktails.

For more information, visit Rochester Cocktail Revival's website or check them out on Instagram at @rochestercocktailrevival.

I hope you take a well-deserved break from your studies and explore these wonderful spots to enjoy a creative drink. Remember, the bartenders at these places are more than happy to improvise—just share your preferences, and they’ll whip up something special just for you.

Cheers!