4 Phoenix bars, 1 local drink pro named among the best in the country

The 2025 Spirited Awards Top 10 Nominees were announced and Phoenix cocktail bar Highball has been nominated for Best U.S. Bar Team. Kyle Ledeboer

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We're one step closer to the annual Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards, and Phoenix bars and bartenders are advancing through the rounds of the prestigious awards.

In April, the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation announced the 2025 Regional Top 10 Honorees. Nine Phoenix bars were named among the best in the West.

Now, the next round has been announced. The Top 10 Nominees are ranked in categories of international awards, focusing on countries outside the U.S.; worldwide awards which include everyone; and awards specific to the U.S. This year, Phoenix made an appearance in multiple U.S. categories.

“Every year, we’re inspired by the extraordinary and diverse global talent emerging from our industry,” said Tiffanie Barriere, Spirited Awards U.S. Chair. “This year’s shortlist is a celebration of those who are redefining excellence — crafting remarkable cocktails, elevating guest experiences, and pushing our industry to new heights around the world.”

Following this Top 10 announcement, the pool will be narrowed down once more, with the Top 4 Finalists set to be announced on June 9.

The winners will be crowned at an in-person ceremony in New Orleans on July 24. The ceremony is part of the annual Tales of the Cocktail conference, where bartenders, owners, brands and producers come together to learn about and celebrate all things spirits.

Here's who is in the running from Phoenix.

click to enlarge

Highball's Libby Lingua is nominated for U.S. Bartender of the Year.

Kyle Ledeboer

Phoenix's 2025 Spirited Awards Top 10 Nominees:

U.S. Bartender of the Year
Libby Lingua, Highball

Best U.S. Bar Team
Highball

Best U.S. Hotel Bar
Little Rituals

Best U.S. Restaurant Bar
Valentine

Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar
Carry On