Best Craft Cocktails: The Black Marlin
At The Black Marlin, the creativity doesn’t stop in the kitchen. Signature sips like the Smoked Old Fashioned, Barrel-Aged Maple Manhattan, and Tequila Mockingbird showcase an impressive cocktail program built on craftsmanship, quality ingredients, and a touch of imagination.
Runners Up: District Table, Palm City Social
Best Coffee Shop: Gilbert’s Coffee Bar
Great coffee starts with great beans. At Gilbert’s Coffee Bar, specialty roasts from Wells Coffee Company are transformed into expertly crafted espresso drinks, fueling everyone from early risers to downtown regulars.
Runners Up: Cali Coffee, The Googan Coffee Shop
Best Bartender/Mixologist: Ian Gelardi, The Gafford
The difference between a good cocktail and a great one often comes down to who’s mixing it. At The Gafford, Ian Gelardi combines skill, creativity, and genuine hospitality to make every guest feel like they’ve found their favorite seat at the bar.
Runners Up: Eric Hayes, Culture Shift Elixery; Sam McGeehan, The Urban Tapas
Best Brewery: Ocean Republic Brewing
The Treasure Coast isn’t just in Ocean Republic Brewing’s address—it’s in every pint. From Treasure Coast IPA and Mangrove IPA to Captain’s Kolsch and Sea Cow Milk Stout, the Stuart brewery has built a loyal following with creative brews that celebrate the region’s coastal character.
Runners Up: Frazier Creek Brewing & Distilling Co., Sound Brewing Company
Best Dive Bar: Lures Riverfront Restaurant
No frills, no fuss, just cold drinks, good food, and a waterfront view. Lures Riverfront Restaurant has earned its loyal following by staying true to what makes a great dive bar: a laid-back atmosphere, friendly faces, and a place where everyone feels like a regular.
Runners Up: The Coconut Bar, Scooter’s Fun, Food & Spirits
Best Happy Hour: Dolphin Bar and Shrimp House
When the afternoon sun starts to dip over the St. Lucie River, locals know exactly where to be. Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House pairs waterfront views with discounted cocktails, wine, oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, and other crowd-pleasing bites, turning happy hour into a daily ritual worth savoring.
Runners Up: The Gafford, South Fork Kitchen & Bar
Best Juice Bar: Healthfully Yours
Fresh juices are just the beginning at Healthfully Yours. Alongside smoothies and wellness drinks, the longtime health-food destination offers vitamins, supplements, and natural products, making it a one-stop shop for healthy living.
Runners Up: Fresh Fusion Juice Bar, The Juice Stop
Best Mocktails: Citron Bistro
Skipping the alcohol doesn’t mean skipping the fun at Citron Bistro. Refreshers like the Tropical Mule, White Basil Oasis, Paloma Spritz, and Blackberry Lemonade deliver all the flavor, creativity, and presentation of a craft cocktail—without the spirits.
Runners Up: Culture Shift Elixery, Priscilla’s Oasis on Orange
Best Outdoor Bar: Waterfront—Sailfish Lounge & Grill
A cold drink, live music, and a front-row seat to the marina—that’s the recipe at Waterfront. The lively gathering spot pairs tropical cocktails and laid-back vibes with an atmosphere that makes it easy to lose track of time and stay for one more round.
Runners Up: Hudson’s on the River, The Pearl
Best Smoothies: Ital Bowls
You don’t need a storefront to make a great smoothie. From its colorful food truck, Ital Bowls serves up tropical blends packed with fresh fruit, plant-based ingredients, and island-inspired flavor that keep customers coming back for more.
Runners Up: Enzo’s Café, Playa Bowls
Best Sports Bar: Carson’s Tavern
Some games are better watched with a crowd. Carson’s Tavern combines plenty of TVs, cold beer, and passionate fans to create the kind of game-day atmosphere that keeps sports lovers coming back season after season.
Runners Up: Townies Tavern, J Michael’s Tavern & Grille
Best Wine Bar: Carmella’s Wine Bar
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply know what you like, Carmela’s Wine Bar offers a welcoming place to explore. With carefully curated wines, shareable bites, and a cozy atmosphere, it’s become a favorite gathering spot for Treasure Coast oenophiles.
Runners Up: Casa del Vino, The Grove
Editor’s Pick: Tea Time at The Tea Party Bakery
Escape the everyday with an elegant afternoon tea at The Tea Party Bakery. Housed inside Sugar House Bakery, the experience pairs premium loose-leaf teas with a beautifully presented tiered assortment of finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, macarons, and other scratch-made sweets. Choose from a curated selection of classic and herbal teas, then settle in for an unhurried afternoon where every detail feels thoughtfully considered. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply slowing down for an afternoon, it’s a charming excuse to linger over every sip—and every bite.
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