San Diego Reader

Eight SD bartenders compete in Iron Chef-style competition. Anthony Schmidt returns to protect his title as reigning champ. Contestants create an original cocktail in four minutes using pre-determined bases, smoothing or coloring agents, fresh ingredients and one unknown "modifying spirit" per round that must be used in the libation. The drink receiving the highest aggregate score among the judges moves on to next round of cocktail construction. 619-237-0550.