Flavors of Fall: Best Seasonal Cocktails in Indian River County
As the crisp air of fall settles over Indian River County, local restaurants are bringing the season to life with an array of Autumn, Halloween, and Christmas-inspired cocktails. Thanks to the expertise of Treasure Coast Foodie, aka Thomas Miller, we’ve discovered some of the best spots serving up warm spices and rich flavors like apple, cinnamon, and pumpkin. Whether you're looking for a cozy night out or eager to try something new, these seasonal cocktails are the perfect way to celebrate. Explore Indian River County’s top spots for indulging in these delicious fall creations!
Let’s dive right in and see what cocktails we had the pleasure of tasting over the past few weeks while writing this article!
Curfew – Vero Beach, FL
Curfew is quickly becoming one of the hottest new restaurants in Downtown Vero Beach. Led by owners Tia Fanelli and Deborah Kershaw, along with Chef Red Bellamy, a Treasure Coast MasterChef competition finalist, the restaurant offers a cozy “Florida Room” with low-top tables, providing a relaxed dining atmosphere, while the bar area features high-top seating, perfect for a lively, late-night gathering spot with friends.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of sampling three wonderfully creative and delicious cocktails. The Basic Witch (left) offered a delightful spin on a pumpkin “spiked” latte, perfect for the season. The Smoked Butter Beer Old Fashioned, called The Three Broom Sticks (middle), delivered a smoky, rich twist on a classic. And the Poison Apple (right), a playful take on a Washington apple cocktail, came with a striking smoke bubble on top. These inventive drinks were all crafted by Michelle, the talented bartender, who added an extra level of artistry to the experience.
Curfew Vero Beach
Address: 1932 14th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 205-2212
Havana Nights – Vero Beach, FL
Havana Nights Piano Bar, nestled upstairs at Maison Martinique inside The Caribbean Court Boutique Hotel, is the perfect spot for a night of great food, drinks, and live music. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the full menu or opt for selections from their “smaller bites” menu, Havana Nights offers a fantastic dining experience accompanied by live entertainment every evening. Co-owned by Chef Daniel Wise and Colleen Carr, this piano bar stands out for its tropical atmosphere, featuring a delicious tapas selection, a full dinner menu, and an impressive craft cocktail list. The intimate, secluded setting, surrounded by lush tropical greenery, makes it one of our favorite spots in Vero Beach.
We had the pleasure of sampling four incredible fall-inspired cocktails crafted by the talented bartender, Sam. From left to right: the Pumpkin Espresso Martini, which perfectly balanced rich coffee and seasonal pumpkin flavors; the Banana Bread Old Fashioned, offering a smooth and unique twist on the classic; the Cidertini, with refreshing apple cider notes; and the Apple Cider Margarita, a fun fusion of tart and sweet flavors. Each cocktail was expertly crafted and added a festive touch to an already wonderful evening.
Havana Nights
Address: 1603 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 231-7299
River Twist – Vero Beach, FL
Located near the Indian River Lagoon, just west of the 17th Street Bridge in The Shops of Vero Beach, River Twist lives up to its name by putting a creative spin on classic dishes. Owned by Chef Michael Amaral and his wife, Lorraine, the restaurant blends modern industrial design with touches of ballroom elegance and pop art, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by their own family home, the space features chandeliers, ceramic tile, and a poured concrete bar, adding inventive elements to the experience. Open since October 2020, River Twist offers diners a fresh take on beloved favorites in a one-of-a-kind setting.
We had the pleasure of sampling four incredible cocktails, each bringing a distinct and flavorful twist to the table. From left to right: the Sultry Old Fashioned, which featured the rich flavors of cherries and muddled orange, a refreshing, “spritz” version of the Sweet Snap, offering a lighter, bubbly take on the original; the Autumntini (our personal favorite), topped with cinnamon for a warm, aromatic finish, and finally, the Sweet Snap served straight up for those who prefer a more robust flavor. Each drink was expertly crafted by Lorraine, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
River Twist
Address: 717 17th St, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 770-0908
The Wave at Costa d’Este – Vero Beach, FL
The Wave Kitchen & Bar, nestled within Costa d’Este Resort & Spa and owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan, offers a tropical escape for both locals and visitors in Vero Beach. From the moment you arrive, the resort’s striking waterfall entrance and lush, palm-lined landscape create an unforgettable atmosphere. Inside, a sleek Miami-inspired lobby leads seamlessly to the restaurant’s chic dining and bar area, setting the stage for an exceptional dining (and cocktail) experience.
We had the opportunity to sample four seasonal cocktails, each adding a festive touch to the evening. From left to right: the Pumpkin Espresso Martini, blending warm seasonal spices with rich espresso; the Maple Cider Old Fashioned, a smooth twist on the classic with a hint of autumn; the Christmas Cosmo, offering a bright, holiday-inspired flavor; and The Green Goblin, a vibrant and fun cocktail perfect to excite your “spirits” this Halloween! Whether sipping by the indoor bar or relaxing poolside at the Cabana Bar, these creative drinks perfectly complement the tropical atmosphere.
The Wave Kitchen & Bar
Address: 3244 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 410-0100
Twisted Lime Restaurant & Bar – Vero Beach, FL
Twisted Lime Restaurant & Bar has become one of the area’s liveliest destinations, offering an inviting and energetic atmosphere. The menu showcases fresh, flavorful ingredients, with dishes that perfectly pair with the inventive cocktails crafted in-house. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back meal or a fun night out, the wide selection of tequilas and whiskeys ensures there’s something for every taste. Twisted Lime is also an excellent spot for hosting private events, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
To get into the Halloween spirit, they offer a lineup of spooky-themed cocktails that are sure to delight. We sampled five creative concoctions, all crafted by the talented bartender Erica, which perfectly captured the season’s vibe. From left to right: the Black Widow, dark and mysterious; the vibrant Purple People Eater; the bold and punchy Haymaker; the refreshing and tangy Full Moon Margarita; and the sweetly indulgent Caramel Apple. Each drink was unique, full of Halloween flair, and perfectly suited to the festive atmosphere at Twisted Lime.
Twisted Lime Restaurant & Bar
Address: 710 S U.S. 1, Vero Beach, FL 32962
Phone: (772) 539-0300
