The Santa Maria Valley Chamber has revealed the winners of the recent 6th Annual Craft Cocktail Contest.

The contest showcased an array of talent from the local restaurant and brew scene, highlighting innovative cocktail creations from participating establishments which paired creativity with skill. The following winners were announced in two categories.

Judge’s Choice — Huckleberry’s Breakfast and Lunch for its cocktail Gator Juice.
People’s Choice — Maya Mexican Restaurant for its unique take on the classic Original Michelada.

The Judge’s Choice was determined by a panel of judges who evaluated the cocktails based on taste, presentation and authenticity to restaurant.

For the People’s Choice, community members voted for their favorite craft cocktail by posting photos of their drinks, tagging the business, and using the hashtag #SMVCraftCocktail.

“Every year, the Craft Cocktail Contest draws an incredible array of talent. This year was no exception,” said Jennifer Harrison, vice president/marketing and communication for the Santa Maria Valley Chamber.

“It’s a true celebration of the creative spirit of our local mixologists and chefs. We congratulate Huckleberry’s and Maya Mexican Restaurant for their well-deserved accolades,” she said.

The winning business owners are Teresa and Manuel Paredes of Maya Mexican Restaurant; and Ray Tavakoli, president/CEO of Huckleberry’s Breakfast and Lunch.

“We are honored to win the Judge’s Choice award and to be a part of this amazing community celebration,” said Tavakoli. “Our team worked hard to create a cocktail that reflects the essence of Huckleberry’s, and we appreciate everyone who voted for us.”

“Thank you to everyone who supported us and for enjoying our Original Michelada. It means the world to us as local business owners,” Paredes said. “We love serving our community and couldn’t have done it without our amazing customers.”

For more on upcoming events or local promotions, visit santamariavalley.com.