The Revival of Classic Cocktails in D.C.’s Bar Scene

Washington, D.C. is witnessing a transformation behind the bar: mixologists are turning back the clock, drawing inspiration from past eras and reintroducing cocktails that were once relegated to nostalgia. At the heart of this revival is one drink with both visual flair and storied pedigree: the Tequila Sunrise cocktail. If you’re curious to try it yourself, we recommend this tequila sunrise recipe by Olmeca Altos—faithful, straightforward, and ripe for customization. In D.C., that layered drink—half-sun, half-night—has become almost a calling card for bar menus looking to balance classic grandeur with modern craftsmanship.

The Tequila Sunrise Leading the Vintage Cocktail Renaissance

The story of the Tequila Sunrise is richer than man

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