Arthur Valderrama (L) from Barranco Kitchen and Bar took home this year’s grand prize, with event organizer Justin Cole (R).
On October 13, the Lamorinda Arts Council held its fifth annual Art of Mixology event, a craft cocktail competition featuring both amateur and professional bartenders pouring their signature drinks in hopes of being named “Mixologist of the Year.”
An excited crowd moved through Theatre Square, tasting unique beverages such as Blackberry Basil Margarita and Mai Mai Mai, and sampling small bites from local restaurants.
Proceeds from the event benefitted the many arts programs sponsored by the Lamorinda Arts Council (LAC). Founded in 1950 as the Orinda Arts Council, the Lamorinda Arts Council is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has been igniting and sustaining artistic expression and appreciation in the visual, performing and literary arts for people of all ages for over 65 years. Notable programs include Lamorinda Idol, the High School Visual Arts Competition, Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest, curation of the Art Gallery at the Orinda Library, and Art of Mixology. LAC has also been designated by the cities of Lafayette and Orinda to manage and support the activities of the Poet Laureate Program. Visit www.lamorindaarts.org for more information.
For a complete list of winners, go to https://lamorindaarts.org/bartenders.
Ryan Wehrenberg from Park Bistro and Bar won the Audience Favorite award.
Eric Gonzalez, self-employed at TiniTime, won the “Art of Staging Award” for his Agua De Sandía.
A Flash Mob showed up to entertain participants at the beginning of the Mixology fundraiser.
