Some summers are defined by a singular cocktail or dish, but this year, the best drinks in Georgia are influenced by the ever-growing omakase scene. Where to find the best Japanese-inspired drinks in Georgia all comes down to the top spots serving cocktails informed by their refreshing, crisp flavors. From casual places like Mushi Ni to one of Atlanta’s most elevated restaurants, UMI, there are several Georgia restaurants with excellent options to sip.
No matter where you go, expect to find an incredible selection of light and often fruit-forward drinks in the cocktail scene — including some equally delicious non-alcoholic options, too. Whether you prefer subtle and earthy or bittersweet with a fruit-forward nose, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.
Whoopsie’s — Reynoldstown
Seated at One Moreland Avenue, Whoopsie’s has quickly become one of the best restaurants (and a sister restaurant to this Atlanta comfort food spot) and bars in Georgia. Behind the leather-wrapped bar inside this small but charismatic restaurant, Bar Manager Tim Faulkner consistently shakes up his “improved” version of a Japanese Slipper. Traditionally, this cocktail is a simple combination of Midori, Cointreau, and lemon juice. At Whoopsie’s, the drink is upgraded with agricole rum for more complexity. It’s a refreshing cocktail that never gets old thanks to its glowing blue hue and more nuanced profile thanks to the rum. While this drink is typically in rotation, it’s certainly one to try — even if it isn’t listed on the menu. And don’t forget to order the snack plate for a light bar food bite.
UMI — Buckhead
Nestled among some of Atlanta’s most notable restaurants like Atlas and the Garden Room in Buckhead, and one in its own right, UMI offers a highly curated list of signature cocktails alongside expertly crafted classics. The Ceremonial Punch, which has to be one of the best cocktails in Georgia, offers a balanced and refreshing drink garnished with a matcha mochi cube. Made with Japanese whiskey, yuzu, spiced vanilla, and matcha, this drink is surprisingly light, but complex thanks to its earthy spices and bright, citrus notes. Served simply over a single, large ice cube, this striking drink is hard to stray from once you’ve tried it. However, this creative cocktail menu deserves to be explored beyond this perfect drink on a steamy night. Paired with UMI’s moody, minimalist interior, it’s an undeniably seductive sip that’s perfect for summer — and any of the omakase offerings.
Mushi Ni — Inman Park
Located not far from Georgia’s best food hall, Mushi Ni is in the basement of Inman Park’s Victory Sandwich location. Tucked away inside this industrial but warm setting, the restaurant offers an impressive list of summer drinks in Georgia. From light and fruity non-alcoholic drinks like the lychee limeade with mint to the indulgently creamy Thai tea martini, there’s no shortage of invigorating cocktails to choose from to revitalize you on a too-hot summer day. While the Thai tea cocktail won’t disappoint, those looking for a hydrating, sweet but tart sip will love the limeade. Plus, you could easily ask your server to add a shot of your go-to spirit like vodka or a light-bodied Japanese whiskey for a creative take on a Mint Julep.
Whether you’re searching for multiple spots to stop for a night out or the best bars to settle into for a sultry night, these Georgia bars offer the best drinks of the summer. With refreshing, balanced, and nuanced ingredients, these cocktails will allow you to sip and savor every drop…