COCKTAIL CONNOISSEURS. Three of the Chippewa Valley's bartenders – Justin Mason (left), Rebekah Hershman (middle), Evan Walters (right) – shook us up some popular sips!

Folks know Wagner's Lanes as a longtime fave for bowling in the area, but its bar The Complexx (2159 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire) is a fave too, alongside Complexx bartender Justin Mason. Mason was voted the top bartender in the Chippewa Valley in the 2022 Best of the Chippewa Valley Poll, and he shook up the Berry Good Lemonade. Over at River Jams (2940 109th St., Chippewa Falls), bartender Rebekah Hershman dazzled with the holiday-themed drink, Mistletoe Margarita. Inside The Lismore Hotel is Dive (333 Gibson St., Eau Claire), a classy and cozy downtown bar. Bartender Evan Walters served up a gorgeous sipper. 

1. Berry Good Lemonade | Bartender Justin Mason, The Complexx

Made with two kinds of vodkas, a dash of sprite, lemonade, sweet and sour, and a lemon garnish, this drink is sure to quench your thirst.

2. Mistletoe Margarita | Bartender Rebekah Hershman, River Jams

Complete with a sugar rim and sugary cranberries resting on top of the not-your-average cocktail (ever had coconut milk with tequila?!), this holiday-themed drink delivers all the seasonal joy.

3. Panacea | Bartender Evan Walters, Dive

Featuring a hibiscus-infused gin, cherry bark vanilla bitters, and more, the Panacea makes for a decadent drink and is vibrant in color.

Check out last year's Best Of poll results for the Valley's favorite cocktails and bartenders, and make sure to vote for the 2023 Best Of before the Friday, Dec. 9 deadline.