This week we bring our own mix of great cocktail places on Ibiza. Many of the world's finest mixologists come here; it's almost a great cocktail nexus, where you will get some of the bartender's finest drink mixes. You can expect top quality liquors, the finest vodka, gin or rum with wild and wonderful ingredients or just that Dirty Martini done damned well.
This is our list of seven of the best places to sample some great cocktails on this beautiful, electrifying little island. The places we suggest all offer their own unique flavour, style and surroundings. What unifies them is a cocktail done well and with love and we think you'll love them back for that.
Km5
This legendary open-air lounge bar should be on your to do list anyway. The added bonus is that they also make a mean cocktail. Try their specials such as the Km5 Apple with bison grass vodka or the Red Bull Km5 which will give you a kick start to the night. They do the classics too; a piña colada takes on a new life here.
La Mezcaleria
Perhaps a wild card, but what a card they play. This cute little place is a temple to mezcal, the hand-crafted spirit from Mexico made from 100% agave. All cocktails use it as the main alcoholic base using Mexican flavours like hibiscus and chilli. There's one with beetroot and ginger that's a knock out or one with big lavender flowers. If you drink Mezcal, you won't get a hangover either it's been told. Make mine a triple!
Experimental Beach
A very successful transfer from London's China Town at Cap des Falco at the back of Las Salinas beach. This is the Ibiza home of fantastic world-class cocktails and yes they are experimental. How about a Belza with pink pepper gin, cucumber and pineapple or the superb rum-based Old Cuban, a mojito inspired drink with cava to top it up, Yum!
Kumharas
Not only cocktails but amazing sunsets. What better way to enjoy a great cocktail with the sun going down. Kumharas has a good stock of different booze and will make you what you want. Do try the classics here as they are done well. You'll get a daiquiri that strawberries were invented for here; their mojitos are top notch too and so good you'll want another.
Es Vive hotel
Stylish 1920's art deco Miami elegance: this is just the sort of place you want to have a drink. You can enjoy their excellent cocktails in the Deco restaurant, the third floor terrace or sprawled on the white modish sofas in the Experience bar. Try an ultra retro Blue Hawaii or the once outré but now cool Piña Colada. There is even five types of Bloody Mary; one with consommé. Try if you dare.
Mint Lounge
There are some excellent classic cocktails here, but it's the G&Ts you want. They have been marvelously re-invented at this famous spot on the Sunset Strip. Even gin haters will love one of these Gin and Tonics: flavours like cinnamon and pink peppercorn or the sharp tart zest of orange or lemon peel infuse the various types on offer. It's also the perfect spot to watch one of the best sunsets around.
Cappuccino
Right next to the water with one of the best views of Dalt Vila I've ever seen. It's in a great setting, yes, but one that needs to be enjoyed with a cocktail. And here, they are supremely well mixed. Even a simple Aperol Spritz has that smoother edge. Try a neon orange San Francisco or a refreshing minty Hugo, the perfect summer drink.
WORDS: Julian Heathcote
