Tales of the Cocktail 2016 started off with a boozy bang. Even in this oppressive heat and never-ending street construction, Tales sent its attendees all over the city more so than in previous years. I started off at a few tasting rooms in the Hotel Monteleone, before quickly jetting over to El Libre on Dumaine Street (which is completely closed to traffic so don't try driving there) to start my journey with the Bacardi Rum National Daiquiri Day bar tour. The tour then led me to Kingfish to enjoy another on of their featured drinks which were sweet, syrupy cocktails that are traditional daiqs which aren't like the ones we know here, but are incredibly tasty in their own right. I then walked over to Palace Cafe for the next drink then was informed that I could just hop on the bus that was provided for those on the tour. Hey, I wasn't officially invited on it, but was welcomed. We drove over to Victory Bar for the last daiq before heading over to the Ace Hotel for a rooftop toast. I dipped my toes in the pool while imbibing on some goodies.
Then came the big show by Jameson at Republic featuring some hot local brass bands. The whiskey flowed as did the great tunes and good times. Here comes Round Two!