Best Cocktails

1. The Esquire Tavern
155 E Commerce, (210) 222-2521, esquiretavern-sa.com
Last April Fools' Day, the Esquire Tavern reopened after four years of well-deserved beauty rest. Respectfully restored (down to the nicotine-stained flocked wallpaper) by architect, developer, and "reluctant restaurateur" Christopher Hill, the place still looks and feels like the oldest bar on the River Walk, but an innovative approach to food and drinks gives everything a modern twist. With award-winning Master Barman Jeret Peña at the helm, the Esquire is now synonymous with cocktails both classic (homemade ginger beer makes the Moscow Mule a popular potion, $7) and progressive (the Más Chingoni is a potent blend of añejo tequila, aperol, and carpano antica served in a mescal-laced glass for $13). Covering every base from "light and bright" to "cunning and complex" and "big and boozy," the produce-forward bill of fare hasn't gone unnoticed. Earlier this year StarChef.com named Peña Austin-San Antonio Rising Star Mixologist while the Esquire picked up a James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding Bar Program.

2. SoHo Wine & Martini Bar
214 W Crockett, (210) 444-1000, sohomartinibar.com
3. Mon Ami Lounge
4901 Broadway, Ste 110, (210) 822-3253