Second-annual coquito competition seeks to crown Chicago’s best Puerto Rican holiday beverage

The Festivities Continue

For most, the holiday season has already come to an end. But for Chicago Puerto Ricans, the festivities last well into January. The celebrations this year will culminate with a competition sponsored by Bacardí to find the city’s best coquito. The contest returns to Chicago for the second time on January 20.

What is Coquito?

Coquito, a holiday drink that originated in Puerto Rico, is made with a base of creamy coconut, spices and Puerto Rican rum. While the exact story of its creation remains unknown, coquito rose to popularity in the 1970s and has remained a beloved beverage for generations of Puerto Ricans on and off the island. Some speculate it became a big thing after condensed milk was introduced to the island in the 1950s.

The Competition

This contest has a special way of honoring the Chicagoans putting their twist on coquito. Some of the eight finalist versions include unconventional ingredients like atole (a hot, creamy, corn-based drink from Mexico), chocolate bitters and mango black tea foam. All of the mixologists used Bacardí Reserva Ocho for their cocktails, an eight-year-old dark rum made in Puerto Rico with a spicier, woodier taste than its younger, white counterpart.

The Event

New Orleans-based Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is hosting the event, which will be held at Beatnik, 1604 W. Chicago Ave. Prospective attendees must fill out an RSVP form to be approved and added to the guest list. Priority will be given to bar and spirits industry professionals. DJ and producer Syko will curate a “tropical vibe” alongside DJs from Tribe Chicago, and one of the judges is former B96 radio personality Gabe Ramirez, who currently works as the in-stadium host for the Chicago Fire during their home games.

Organizers

Organizers of the Bacardí-sponsored coquito contest, Allaina Roberson and Pito Rodríguez, pose for a photo at last year’s first competition on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. Rodríguez said, “I’m excited about seeing people smiling, representing Puerto Rico, and giving people a taste of Puerto Rico. I try to bring Puerto Rico to the people.”

Finalists

The eight restaurant/bar finalists include:

• The Pearl Club, 495 N. Milwaukee Ave.
• Arbella, 112 W. Grand Ave.
• Celeste (2024 champion), 111 W. Hubbard St.
• Marinas Bistro & Rum Bar, 4554 N. Magnolia Ave.
• Copper Club, 70 W. Madison St.
• Mariscos San Pedro, 1227 W. 18th St.
• Valedor, 1620 N. Milwaukee Ave.
• Sparrow, 12 W. Elm St.

How to Vote

Attendees will also help select the People’s Choice Winner, to be announced at the night’s end. Two-ounce portions of each will be served up so attendees can vote for their favorite. Beatnik’s bar will also feature Bacardí specialty cocktails available for purchase, such as mojitos and rum old fashioned.

Conclusion

The coquito competition is a unique and exciting event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rico in Chicago. With its rich flavors and festive atmosphere, it is an event not to be missed.

FAQs

Q: What is the date of the coquito competition?
A: The competition will take place on January 20.

Q: Who can attend the event?
A: Prospective attendees must fill out an RSVP form to be approved and added to the guest list. Priority will be given to bar and spirits industry professionals.

Q: How can I vote for my favorite coquito?
A: Attendees will be able to vote for their favorite coquito by sampling the different versions and voting for their favorite.

Q: Will there be any food available at the event?
A: Beatnik’s bar will feature Bacardí specialty cocktails available for purchase, such as mojitos and rum old fashioned. However, food will not be provided.