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Top 8 drinks to try in El Dorado County

It’s not all about farm-to-table, authentic, delicious food here in El Dorado County. We make a mean drink, too – actually, we make more than a few mean and tasty beverages. You’ll find a broad range of libations worth sampling during your next visit.

Poor Red’s Golden Cadillac

This signature cocktail is made with the Italian liquor Galliano and a few other items (recipe below).  The Golden Cadillac has made Poor Red’s the largest consumer of Galliano in the world. That’s a significant achievement!

If you can’t make it over to Poor Red’s, here’s the recipe for The Golden Cadillac. (But trust us when we say it’s best enjoyed at their bar!)

Golden Cadillac (makes 1)
5 ice cubes
3 tablespoons heavy cream
1 ounce white crème de cacao
1 ounce Galliano

Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high for 15 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth, and pour into a chilled saucer-shaped Champagne glass.

Poor Red's Golden Cadillac cocktail
The Golden Cadillac is Poor Red’s signature cocktail for good reason!

Spirits from Dry Diggings Distillery

El Dorado County’s first local distillery showcases locally produced farm fruit, grains, and wine for its vodka, whiskey, brandy, and bourbon. Dry Diggings works with local farmers, vintners, and breweries to craft spirits that represent the unique flavor of the area. The tasting room captures the gold rush era, and it’s worth visiting for a tour and a taste. The vodka won best in its class, but purists will love the bourbon.

Mimosa House El Dorado Hills

Mimosa lovers, be warned. These aren’t your mother’s mimosas.  There is a whole menu just dedicated to Mimosas –  The Energizers made with red bull will add a little skip to your step. The tropical varieties are sure to transport your taste buds to a far away island.  Maybe the Jolly Rancher, Spring Kiss or Naughty Cupid is more your style.  If you simply cannot pick just one, we recommend trying a flight.

Milestone Restaurant + Cocktail Bar

Cocktail aficionados will be impressed by this place. Milestone makes all its own mixes and craft cocktails. Our favorites are the Milestone Gin & Tonic, Beach Bonfire and Mainland Mai Tai. For brunch goers, the Wake Up Call is a must-try! The staff is super knowledgeable about cocktails – they are true mixologists. Whether you want a perfect Manhattan or a Vesper, you’ll get it made correctly here.

Rum Runner at The Grove

Basil Martini at The Independent Restaurant Placerville
The Independent in Placerville makes a delicious and refreshing Basil Martini

Royal Basil Martini at The Independent Restaurant

It’s worth ordering a Royal Basil Martini here just to watch the slightly naughty preparation. They make it with fresh basil which they slap to release the flavor.

Pear Martini at Bricks

When was the last time you had a fruit martini? Here you’ll find your martini comes with fresh slices of pear. Truly delightful and refreshing. Enjoy it in the brick-walled coziness of this historic location on Placerville’s Main Street.

Upcoming El Dorado County Events

4 unique adventures on the road to Lake Tahoe
spring vines at Lava Cap Winery

Community Events Calendar

February 14, 2025
St. Valentine's Day
1:00 pm 2025 Sweetheart Raffle
5:00 pm Fenton Herriot Valentine's Day Dinner
6:00 pm A Chocolate Affair - Reimagined....
7:00 pm Stuart Little:The Musical
February 15, 2025
10:00 am First Annual Bridal Expo
11:00 am Amore On Omo
11:00 am Amore On Omo Wine Festival
2:00 pm Stuart Little: The Musical
3:00 pm Valentines Celebration with LIVE Music by Ed Wilson
4:30 pm American Legion Crab Feed