First Margarita Off Left Patrons and Bartenders Smiling

What makes a good margarita? Is it the ingredients, the bartender making it or both?

went after the answer to this at its first on July 14.

"A good drink always needs fresh ingredients," says Mike Miles, head bartender at Khartoum.

Miles has been bartending for the last 20 years and although he doesn't like margaritas (he hasn't had tequila since his college days more than two decades ago) he raised the bar at the Saturday event with his emulsified, triple sec blue curacao caviar balls.

Chris Smith, who is currently a bartender at  and used to bartend at busted out his skills in the event.

"It comes down to finding the right balance in the ingredients," Smith says. "It's how they will all blend with the tequila you're using."

Smith had been invited to partake in the held in March but because his baby was due at that time was unable to participate. So when Boswells manager Kelly Crowley came around again with the invitations, Smith was excited to be part of the event.

"Campbell's a great community," Smith says. "It's fun to be part of this and see everyone coming together. It's a good time to be in Campbell." 

And the winners were:

Most Creative: Kelly Baldwin from Khartoum and Boswells with the Farmers Market Margarita.

Best Presentation: Miles (Mike Miles) from Khartoum with the salt foam and blue balls.

Third place: Andy Brewer, a customer who loves margaritas.

Second place: Fernando (pomegranate margarita).

Best overall winner: Kelly Baldwin from Khartoum and Boswells.

Most Popular: ( voted on by bar patrons) Andy Brewer customer who loves margaritas!

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