Charlotte's 3 best cocktails, according to our readers
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Left to right: the San Sebastián Martini at Rada, Pisco Sour at Yunta and Secretly Stern at Customshop. (Photos: McKenzie Rankin/Axios)
We're living in the age of the $20 cocktail. So if we're dropping that much on a drink, we want to know it's actually worth it.
- We asked our readers for the cocktails they can't stop ordering, then went out and tried some of the most mentioned drinks ourselves.
Why it matters: As cocktail prices creep higher, a bad drink is an increasingly expensive mistake. Consider these reader-vetted picks when you want to make your next one count.
These three cocktails received the most reader shoutouts, listed in no particular order.
🍸 Secretly Stern at Customshop — $16
Customshop's take on an espresso martini is creamy, slightly sweet and finished with house-made Morita chile salt on top.
- What they're saying: "I ordered this espresso martini solely for the caffeine before a night out, but shockingly, it turned out to be the best one I've ever had," reader Brittani W. said.
- 💭 McKenzie's thought bubble: I wasn't surprised to see readers praise this drink over and over — I never go to Customshop without ordering one.
Stop by: 1601 Elizabeth Ave.
🍋 Pisco Sour at Yunta — $16
Yunta's version of the Peruvian classic combines pisco, lime, simple syrup and egg white, with your choice of traditional, passion fruit or chicha morada foam.
- What they're saying: "It's unique … and the flavor is just perfect," reader Alec S. told us.
- Pro tip: Can't choose a foam? The $25 Pisco Sour Flight comes with all three.
- 💭 McKenzie's thought bubble: This tastes like the drink you order to kick off a night out. It's incredibly delicious.
Stop by: 2201 South Blvd.
🫒 San Sebastián Martini at Rada — $22-$27
The San Sebastián puts a Basque spin on a dirty martini with gin, Tximista vermouth, bay leaf and pepper brine. For $5, add a Gilda skewer with anchovy, olive and pepper for a salty bite.
- What they're saying: "I'm TEN TOES DOWN on this perfectly balanced, deliciously savory Spanish twist on the martini," reader Madisson R. told us.
- 💭 McKenzie's thought bubble: This is the best gin martini I've ever had — and I'm not usually a fan. Adding the salty Gilda is a must. I also loved that the martini arrives with a sidecar for the extra pour.
Stop by: 2820 Selwyn Ave.
