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Written by Derek Lauer Tuesday, 22 April 2008 16:19

There was definitely a lot of energy in the air as each of the competitors brought a following from their home base bars.

The Old Rock House, St. Louis

How could you go wrong? A gathering of the finest bartenders from around the city trying to outdo each other with the most mind-blowing recipes they can come up with. There was definitely a lot of energy in the air as each of the competitors brought a following from their home base bars. The rowdy crowd had a lot to be noisy about in cheering on their favorite drink slingers and getting to taste in the fruits of their labor.

It was a great event to spotlight some local talent and support the community of St. Louis hot spots. The best representative bartenders were sent from the Pepper Lounge, Subzero Vodka Bar, the Park West Grille and Side Pockets in St. Charles. Nick Whiteside had the home field advantage representing the Old Rock House and took home the People's Choice Award. Juan Carlos from Kitchen K had the loudest group of loyal fans, but it was Lili Contini from the Broadway Oyster Bar who took home the cup. She looked she was just there to have a good time and was genuinely surprised to win, which was actually very cute to watch.

The Old Rock House was the perfect setting with its elevated stage well equipped with video monitors around the bar and the balcony above; even though it was a packed house, there was a chance for everybody to see the action. It was a class act all the way and Finlandia Vodka had a table of food, $3 drinks and a troupe of little hotties serving the drinks while the MC and DJ kept the audience pumped. Music, pretty girls, fine vodka being passed around...good times, indeed. | Derek Lauer