Anthony Vitacca, Montrio Bistro
414 Calle Principal, Monterey | (831) 648-8880, montrio.com
It’s no surprise that Vitacca is a perennial pick for Best Bartender; every time it seems like he’s maxed out on mixing creative new cocktails, the menu changes yet again. There’s the “Sly Rye,” with ginger liqueur, Punt e mes and orange bitters, and the “Gin Blossom,” with elderflower liqueur, orange bitters, lemon and sparkling wine. He’s the kind of creative genius who keeps no fewer than a dozen types of bitters behind the bar, and makes his own infusions. Also worth noting: Your puppy can join you on Montrio’s elegant new outdoor patio.