Mojito the Moment

Muddle citizens clash in a battle based around the classic Cuban cocktail.

by Meaghan Dorff

Masters of mixology from Philly's hottest food-and-bev locales will take mint-leaf bruising and lime spritzing to new heights for the first-ever Mojito Olympics, hosted by Rittenhouse Square's Rum Bar and Capital Wine & Spirits. The competition kicks off on Mon., June 16, at 6 p.m. and is broken down into three distinct events: best traditional mojito, a speed contest and a best-in-show category that rewards creativity.

In addition to earning bragging rights and medals (they make for lovely bar décor), champions in each category will pocket a ticket to October's Rum Fest in New York City. Participation also puts their respective establishments in the rum-and-limelight: For the best traditional segment, contestants will mix up the house mojito of his or her home bar. In the speed competition, they'll whip up 15 mojitos rapid-fire, losing points if they foul up the drink's flavors or mess up their workspace. The best-in-show category lets challengers push the boundaries of the time-honored Cuban classic.

Contestants from eight local establishments, including G and Chick's Cafe & Wine Bar, have signed on so far. Who does contest founder and Rum Bar owner Adam Kanter have his money on? "There are a couple underdogs, and there are probably a couple favorites, but really, anyone can win," he says.

Behind-the-bar athlete Tony Perez, the self-proclaimed "King of Mojitos," is a mixologist at G. He says he's in it for the love of the concoction and looks forward to a meeting of the minds with other mojito enthusiasts. Chick's bartendrix Katie Loeb feels her tastebuds will give her an edge on her opponents. "Since I'm such a foodie, I kind of think like a chef," she says. "I made up a rhubarb daiquiri one night after I had a piece of rhubarb pie."

While audience members won't be judging — not officially, at least — they'll reap the benefits of all the mixing magic, particularly in the speed competition. The $8 admission includes one free mojito, samples of the competitors' mojitos and half-price mojitos all night.

Foobooz.com editor Arthur Etchells, Lacroix at the Rittenhouse executive chef Matthew Levin and Caseyboy from WMMR's Preston & Steve Show will pass judgment on the creations, taste-testing and evaluating presentation and innovation.

Levin, who's known for creating complex palate-teasers at Lacroix, has a simple message for mixers: "Teach me something. I want to see rock-solid technique and finesse." He also issues a warning: "I really don't handle my alcohol well, but I'll do my best to keep my composure, take small sips," laughs Levin. "I've heard wasabi peas help, so I'll bring a bag."

(meaghan.dorff@citypaper.net)

The Mojito Olympics | Mon., June 16, 6 p.m., $8, Rum Bar, 2005 Walnut St., 215-751-0404, rum-bar.com