If I could be drinking anywhere other than home, I would be…

“In Bandol, France, by the bay. I’d ask the bartender for two spritzes: One would be half Campari, half Aperol and the other made with Cocchi Rosa, with a big fruit garnish.” —Cecelia Jones, general manager at Uncle in Speer

Nicole Lebedevitch, beverage director at Forget Me Not in Cherry Creek. Illustration by Lily Nie

“In a hammock in the Caribbean. My order: a rum old fashioned made with orange and mole bitters, a large ice cube, and a kiss of orange oil.” —Nicole Lebedevitch, beverage director at Forget Me Not in Cherry Creek

Jonathan Taylor, head brewer at Trinity Brewing Co. in Colorado Springs. Illustration by Lily Nie

“At Twin Peaks park in San Francisco at night, where I’d watch the lights in the city with a case each—can I say that?—of Russian River Brewing Company’s Pliny the Elder and Blind Pig.” —Jonathan Taylor, head brewer at Trinity Brewing Co. in Colorado Springs

Emillio Ortiz, president, the Colorado Springs Bartenders’ Guild, and bar manager, 503 West Open Kitchen & Craft Bar. Illustration by Lily Nie

“At the Haleakalā volcano on Maui, sipping a Don Q Cristal rum daiquiri made in the Cuban cantinero tradition [aka blended], under a blanket, watching the sun rise.” —Emillio Ortiz, president, the Colorado Springs Bartenders’ Guild, and bar manager, 503 West Open Kitchen & Craft Bar

Denise Mickelsen
Denise Mickelsen
Denise Mickelsen is 5280’s former food editor. She oversaw all of 5280’s food-related coverage from October 2016 to March 2021.
Patricia Kaowthumrong
Patricia Kaowthumrong
Patricia joined the 5280 staff in July 2019 and is thrilled to oversee all of the magazine’s dining coverage. Follow her food reporting adventures on Instagram @whatispattyeating.