The Dallas “preliminary” leading up to the 2015 Original Key West Cocktail Classic takes place tonight (Monday, March 2), beginning at 7 p.m. at the Round-Up Saloon, 3912 Cedar Springs Road.
Local mixologists competing for the chance to go to Key West to vie for the championship are Dade, John, Rita, Mikey, Mindy and Zach.
The event is hosted by LeeAnne Locken, and judges will be Steve Kemble, Krystal Summers and the 2014 Dallas champ, Frank Martinez.
The second annual Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic is being presented by StoliVodka, in partnership with the Key West Business Guild. It is North America’s largest annual LGBT cocktail competition.
Dallas is the first of 14 cities that will hold preliminary competitions between now and May 27. The champs from each city will then go to Key West for the finale on June 13.
The 2015 Cocktail Classic champion will get to ride in the Key West Pride Parade as honorary grand marshall and will also receive $5,000 to donate to the LGBT or LGBT-friendly charity of their choice.
In partnership with the Key West Business Guild, the competition will be hosted by Gallineaux and TV personality Jai Rodriguez. It will also feature a panel of celebrity judges including clothing designer Andrew Christian; legendary funnyman Bruce Vilanch; actress and singer LaToya London; and Key West personality and star of the annual New Year’s Eve High Heel Drop, Sushi.
So go out to the Round-Up tonight and cheer for your favorite bartender and get a taste of what will surely be some fantastic cocktails.
