The Bushwacker may be the king of boozy beverages on the Gulf Coast, but our coastal paradise is also home to some brag-worthy cocktails and brews. From fruity concoctions to high-end spirits to local craft beer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some delicious picks that are sure to satiate your taste buds.
Fabulously Fruity
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GT's On the Bay Facebook page
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LuLu's Facebook page
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The Hangout Facebook page
When most people think of coastal cocktails, fruity drinks often come to mind. And the special blends around here are definitely worth writing home about.
Drink: Jet Ski Killer
Find it at: Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s
They don’t call it the Jet Ski killer for no reason! Made with spiced rum, Cruzan coconut rum, blue curaçao, banana purée and piña colada mix, this drink sure packs a powerful punch! As they say at LuLu’s, “it’ll sneak up on ya.”
Drink: Shark Attack
Find it at: The Hangout
A Hangout signature, the Shark Attack is made with Malibu coconut rum, blue curaçao and fresh pineapple juice. We’re not sure which one will sneak up on you more—LuLu’s Jet Ski Killer or The Hangout’s Shark Attack. Better try ‘em both!
Drink: The Bahama Bob
Find it at: Bahama Bob’s
Similar to a Bahama Mama but with a special twist, this beachside cocktail features a delicious blend of rums and fresh fruit juices all topped off with Bacardi 151 Rum. Yum!
Drink: Tropic Thunder
Find it at: GT’s on the Bay
Drink in views of the gorgeous Wolf Bay while sipping on GT’s signature drink, a tasty blend of fresh pineapple, tropical rums and fresh strawberry purée with an umbrella on top.
Savory Spirits
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Red or White Wine Facebook page
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Villiggio Grille Facebook page
Feeling something less fruity and a bit more refined? We’ve got a fine selection of high-end spirits here on the coast, too!
Red or White Wine & Gourmet Center
Red or White Wine at The Wharf is known for their wholesome collection of delectable yet affordable wines from both the old and new worlds. You can pick up a bottle (or a few) to take home and enjoy, or stay a while and enjoy their rotating wines-by-the-glass menu. Pleasure your palate even more by pairing your sips with their full tapas menu.
Villaggio Grille
Searching for Italian-inspired libations? Look no further than Villaggio Grille, winner of the Wine Spectator Award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015. Check out their exquisite wine list here.
YoHo Rum & Tacos
YoHo Rum & Tacos is the place to go not only for the best tacos on the coast but also custom cocktails with a coastal flair—and a magnificent view of The Wharf Marina and Intracoastal Waterway. Their yummy Prickly Pear Margarita is the perfect beverage for sending summer out with a proper farewell.
Local Craft Beer
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Big Beach Brewing Facebook page
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Fairhope Brewing Company Facebook page
If cocktails and wine aren’t your thing—or you’re simply feeling a fresh, ice-cold beer—our area is home to some rockin’ breweries.
Big Beach Brewing Company
With a 10-barrel brewhouse and open-air taproom featuring 12 taps of rotating craft brews, Big Beach Brewing Company is every craft beer-lover’s heaven on earth. What’s more? Their relaxing outdoor space and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great place to bring the whole crew and soak up the Southern sun and drink in the coastal breeze while sipping on delicious locally made craft brews.
Fairhope Brewing Company
Just a short drive from the Gulf Coast, you’ll find Fairhope Brewing Company, home to a large taproom and 15 taps of every possible kind of craft beer you could want, from American IPAs to fruit wheats to pale ales and ciders.