Social gatherings abound this time of year. Whether you are celebrating the holiday or kicking off the new year with family and friends, cocktails are always in order.

Here is a sampling of some of the unique, trendy and classic cocktails that we found around Columbus. Enjoy your celebrations. Cheers!

Photography by Al Tucker

LEMON MARTINI

G-Michaels

Whether you prefer sweet or tangy, this combination will satisfy both. The house-made sour mix is shaken with Smirnoff citrus vodka, fresh lemon juice and sugar and is finished with a sugar rim. Photo courtesy of Robb McCormick & Dot The i Creative

Available at: G. Michael’s Bistro & Bar
Price: $9

GAMBLER’S OLD FASHIONED

Ruth-Chris-Steak-House-_-Gambler's-Old-Fashioned

The Gambler’s Old-Fashioned pays homage to Ruth’s favorite cocktail and combines Knob Creek bourbon, house-made demerara syrup, Bitter Truth aromatic bitters and a finish of orange and lemon peels.

Available at: Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Price: $14

MANGO SPICE MARTINI

bernards-tavern

This delicate-looking cocktail is anything but delicate. Shaken together are Ketel One family-made vodka, Grand Mariner, mango juice, lime juice, simple syrup and dried spicy mango. It is presented with a beautiful blossom.

Available at: Bernard’s Tavern
Price: $7

WHITE RABBIT

ampersand

This Asian-inspired cocktail is as cool to look at as it is to sip. Vim and Petal gin, Dolin Blanc vermouth, lime juice, gunpowder tea (a Chinese tea with rolled leaves that resemble gunpowder), nori (edible seaweed), saline and shichimi (Japanese seven-flavor chili pepper) are shaken together and presented in a dusted glass.

Available at: Ampersand Asian Supper Club
Price: $12

SMOKED MARGARITA

black-point

Smoked cocktails are all the rage right now. This classic cocktail is smoked to add a twist. It combines Patron reposado tequila, Combier orange liqueur, fresh lime and agave nectar, and is served in a smoked glass.

Available at: Black Point Prime Steakhouse & Seafood
Price: $15

SPICY BLACKBERRY MARGARITA

short-north

Add a little spice to your chilly night. This margarita combines jalapeno/habanero-infused El Jimador tequila, blackberries, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar. It’s tart and sweet with a kick!

Available at: Short North Goody Boy
Price: $9

CHOCOLATE AVALANCHE

bar-louie

Is it dessert or a cocktail? We think you could consider it either. A combination of Grey Goose vodka, Godiva chocolate liqueur, vanilla syrup and cream with a chocolate rim and shavings is all set for you to enjoy.

Available at: Bar Louie
Price: $10