Downtown Cedar Rapids Restaurant Wins 2019 Cocktail Classic

This week, NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids hosted the 2nd annual 'Cocktail Classic.' It's an event that celebrates, you guessed it, cocktails! According to the official Facebook event page, ten of the "best and most creative cocktail bars and restaurants in Cedar Rapids" were invited to participate, with only one being named the prestigious "Cocktail Classic Champion."

Representatives from each of the ten restaurants came up with unique Cedar Ridge Iowa bourbon-based creations for the event, and a panel of celebrity judges decided on an official winner. We're happy to report that a restaurant right down the street from the radio station ended up the 2019 champion... The Map Room at 416 3rd St SE!

The Map Room opened up in Downtown Cedar Rapids in the summer of 2018. They're not only known for their beverage selections, but also for their unique burger options. It's one of the only downtown restaurants I haven't tried yet, but believe me, it's on my list!

According to Facebook, their winning beverage contained Cedar Ridge bourbon, Iowa coffee liquor, Iowa maple syrup, vermouth, local orange/cardamom bitters, and torched cinnamon.

Guests who purchased tickets were also able to vote for "The People's Choice" award, which ended up going to Local Pour Street Food.

Congrats to both winning restaurants for their amazing beverages! I hope to try them soon!