If you’re in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail, head to Hullabaloo in West Palm Beach. This Rodney Mayo establishment recently made the year’s “best of” list for new restaurants in 2013, churning out gastropub-style Italian with precision and creativity. Likewise, the bar makes one hell of a drink. Here, everything behind the bar is the real deal. How real? You won’t find a single bottle of simple syrup in stock. Instead, it’s all about doing things from scratch, deployed with high-end spirits and house-made liqueurs to serve flavorful, intense drinks with no artificial ingredients. The current roster — with each cocktail named for late musicians — includes the Rick James, a blend of Jameson, Temontis Mirto, Foro Amaro, orange bitters, and fresh oregano. Or try the Peter Tosh, a taste of spiced rum blended with pineapple, egg white, lime juice, cardamom, and Garam Masala.
Voltaire. Like any good cocktail bar, this stylish venue — located above the new Lost Weekend on Clematis Street in West Palm Beach — has a strong speakeasy vibe. Luckily, Voltaire is worth the quick hunt, offering up a touch of hidden charm as one of the city’s most eclectic spots to enjoy good music, food, and — of course — a few drinks. Named after and inspired by the 18th century writer and philosopher of the same name, the place is an ode to those who advocate freedom of expression. Here, feel free to do just that with a drink or two. The unique, multi-dimensional concept features a library of libations and spirits, including a varied selection of absinthe, in case you’re looking to become truly inspired. And, in true Sub Culture establishment fashion, inspiration comes in all forms here, from weekly shows performed by indie touring bands to cabaret and house night on Saturday, and live jazz on Sunday. Hungry after all that creative loafing? In-house Yellow Jack Sushi provides some truly beautiful, art-like sushi offerings (and a ton of sake) for all your late-night noshing needs.