Guest Shift Bartender Battle at 1983

The Guest Shift Cocktail Battle is a four-week competition designed to showcase some of the region's top bartending talent while driving weekly guest engagement and repeat visitation. Each week features a different spirit partner and two guest bartenders representing their respective venues, each creating an original cocktail inspired by that week's featured spirit. Guests are encouraged to purchase both cocktails and cast a vote for their favorite. The bartender receiving the most votes advances to the Championship Battle in Week 4, where the weekly winners compete for the title of Guest Shift Cocktail Champion.

Every Tuesday, starting July 14th to August 4th, from 8 pm - close in the 1983 Game Room. Order a cocktail and receive a free 30 min game card to use on any game machine. Don't forget to order the chicken tender tower for some bites too!

Round 1 | July 14 | Hendrick's Gin

Olekwu Itodo – 1983 (Tampa)
Marcus McMannus – Babs Secret Lounge (Lutz)

Round 2 | July 21 | Milagro Tequila

Jose Burrito – Slim Charmer (St. Pete)
Lucas Peters – Propagation Whiskey Bar & Kitchen (Plant City)

Round 3 | July 28 | Reyka Vodka

Tony Finotti – Copper Shaker (St. Pete)
Andre Velez – Giancarlo's (Tampa)

Championship | August 4 | Full Portfolio

The winners from each qualifying round return to compete in a final head-to-head-to-head cocktail battle featuring a full spirits portfolio. Guests will once again vote for their favorite cocktail, with the highest vote total crowning the inaugural Guest Shift Cocktail Champion.

What Is a Guest Shift?
A guest shift is a special event where a visiting bartender or industry professional takes over the bar for one night, creating a unique cocktail experience you won’t find on the regular menu.