Set the Bar cocktail contest returns to Ed Smith Stadium on April 13

The Set the Bar cocktail competition returns to the Ed Smith Stadium on April 13 from 4-7 p.m., and will be joined by a new Bar Bite Competition, event sponsor Sarasota-Manatee Originals announced.

Using the tagline “Eat Like a Local,” Sarasota-Manatee Originals champions independently owned eateries in the area with annual events such as the Forks & Corks Grand Tasting at The Ringling Courtyard and Set the Bar and through education and advocacy.

“With the addition of the Bar Bite Competition, we’re giving local restaurants an even bigger stage to showcase their talent,” said Marne Gaston, director of operations for Sarasota-Manatee Originals.

More than 25 restaurants are expected to compete at this year’s Set the Bar competition. Attendees sample crafted cocktails and tasty bar bites and vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice Awards in both categories.

In addition to the public vote, a panel of professional judges will evaluate cocktail entries in five spirit categories — tequila, rum, vodka, gin and whiskey. A winner will be named in each category, as well as a cocktail champion.

Last year’s winning cocktail was Mulix, concocted by bartender Angel Nazario at Kolucan! restaurant. It featured smoked tamarind syrup, Dano’s Tequila, spicy lime juice, burnt tortilla rim and dehydrated jalapeños garnish.

In addition to the cocktail and bar bites contests, Set the Bar features live entertainment, a silent auction benefiting Children First Charity, a photo booth and purveyors of face and body art.

Tickets are available online at EatLikeALocal.com. Advance tickets are $85. The price is $95 on event day, subject to availability.