Where to Grab To-Go Cocktails in Cleveland

If you’re like me, you are really missing the vibe of an elbow-to-elbow bar and the spirited conversation of seasonal merrymaking. But things being as they are, we can defend our spot on the nice list by scaling down our cocktailing activity and keeping things small and intimate within our own homes.

Yes, Virginia, there is a way we can show our support to bars and restaurants and enjoy the “amenities” of home like shorter bathroom lines and customized Netflix queues.

Just add a couple of drinks to the take-out order you’re already placing and cozy up with some creative craft cocktails in the comfort of home.

My home bar set up includes key staples, but I’m not likely to infuse my own jalapeño tequila or crush Thai chiles to make the kind of cocktail I typically order off a great bar menu.

And that, my friends, is why to-go cocktails are so genius! Something to know before your place your order—Ohio law currently allows up to three to-go alcoholic drinks per meal, and your drinks will arrive in a sealed container, ready for pouring into your vessel of choice.

Toast to a bright, shiny Cleveland new year with these cheery libations on drink menus now.

Spice Mango Margarita

Momocho & El Carnicero

It’s nacho typical marg (#sorrynotsorry) because this one packs some sweet heat of pureed mango and “rooster claw” Thai chiles. Don’t forget to rim your glass with fresh lime, salt and maybe some chile powder to heat things up just a little more.

Pretty in Pink

Salt+

This combination is made for a COVID-adapted Girls Night In. Salt’s cocktails are thoughtfully curated with transport and home-cocktailing in mind. Who among us doesn’t want a light refreshing drink infused with pamplemousse (a very fun French word for “grapefruit”).

The Coquito

Bett’s

Head to Bett’s in the Schofield Hotel for a taste of the Christmas drink of Puerto Rico. Coquito translates into “little coconut,” and this is the Hallmark-movie-watching accompaniment we’ve been waiting for with rum, coconut, vanilla, cream, cinnamon and nutmeg. Dreamy, right?

Snowball Old Fashioned

Sixth City Sailors Club

This version of the classic bar drink with rye, gingerbread, bitters and orange essence will warm you up on a blustery Cleveland night. It pairs well with your favorite holiday playlist and a walk down memory lane.

The Indigo

L’Albatros

Nothing says “we’re having a good time” like a purple drink. The Indigo combines vodka, violette, lemon, lavender bitters and cava (a Spanish sparkling wine) into an aromatic and beautiful cocktail, befitting any kind of celebration. Don your gay apparel, or just your PJ’s, and enjoy one. It’s all good.