Cocktail Kings

Chambers Kitchen
While the food here is top-notch, the cocktails are worth a trip as well. Unique tastes such as a ginger margarita, pineapple mojito, and cucumber mint cocktail are sure to keep the stylish crowd happy at this contemporary downtown spot. 901 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-767-6999

Chino Latino
With names such as Pink Lady and Honolulu Hummer, it’s no doubt that Chino Latino has some of the best drinks in town. Serving one-of-a-kind specialty cocktails, plus mojitos, martinis, tequila drinks, and sake, this Uptown hot spot is the perfect place to spend happy hour or grab a nightcap. 2916 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-824-7878

La Belle Vie
This Loring Park bastion of elegance is sure to please. The bar boasts a cocktail list that includes unique drinks such as a Strawberry Blonde and Horse’s Neck. Other options include low-alcohol drinks, martinis, and sparkling cocktails. 510 Groveland Ave., Mpls., 612-874-6440

Origami
This Japanese restaurant serves the best and most extensive selection of sakes in the Twin Cities. Premium selections, including Ginga Shizuku, Yuki No Bosha, and Suishin (typically served at Japanese weddings), plus hot sakes, plum wine, and shooters abound. 30 N. 1st St., Mpls., 612-333-8430; Ridgedale Center, 12305 Wayzata Blvd., Minnetonka, 952-746-3398

W.A. Frost & Company
Specialty drinks such as a green tea cooler with vodka and lemonade, a vodka amaretto, and a pineapple patio punch complement the pomegranate, Caribbean, and signature martinis at this holiday season favorite. 374 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-224-5715