Whether sweet or tart, shaken or stirred, there’s no denying residents of Elizabeth City love a well-crafted cocktail. Here are a few signature standouts to order during your next night out on the town. [caption id="attachment_18391" align="aligncenter" width="597"]
Cypress Creek Grilll's ‘Kill Devil Rum Runner' cocktail. Photo credit Rachel Dinger[/caption] Tucked in the rear of the restaurant, the bar at Cypress Creek Grill (113 S. Water St.; 252-334-9915) is a cozy spot located in the heart of the downtown district. Its popular ‘Kill Devil Rum Runner,’ which incorporates Kill Devil Rum, Raleigh Rum Company Spiced Rum, and orange, pineapple, and cranberry juices, was created by manager Eric Stanley and highlights local and regional liquors. Manager and bartender Rachel Dinger, who mixes 30 or more of the cocktails a week, recommends Ahi Seared Tuna, with its hints of citrus, as an ideal accompaniment to this island-inspired drink. [caption id="attachment_18392" align="aligncenter" width="768"]
Groupers 'Raspberry Lemonade' cocktail. Photo credit Cathy at Groupers Waterfront Restaurant.[/caption] With mild temperatures on the horizon, a ‘Raspberry Lemonade’ from Grouper’s Waterfront Restaurant (400 S. Water St., #6; 252-331-2431) can be enjoyed on an expansive deck over the Pasquotank River. During hot summer months, when requests increase exponentially for this simple, refreshing drink, bartender Kraig Van Hise makes it with raspberry vodka and lemonade—topped with a lemon slice garnish—and says Coconut Shrimp is the perfect, light complement to this customer top pick. [caption id="attachment_18393" align="aligncenter" width="696"]
'Purple Rain,' Montero's signature cocktail. Photo credit Becky at Montero's Restaurant & Bar.[/caption] ‘Purple Rain’ may bring Paisley Park and a film based on the life of an international rock star to mind but it’s also the most popular cocktail at Montero’s Restaurant & Bar (414 N. McArthur St.; 252-331-1067). The creation of Prince acolyte and proprietor Karin Montero, it’s a blend of pineapple rum, blue curacao, pineapple juice, grape juice, sour mix and grenadine. Karin’s husband and co-owner, Andy Montero, reveals that customers say the drink “tastes like Kool-Aid” and notes this adult version of a childhood favorite pairs wonderfully with spicy appetizers like Buffalo Chicken Dip or Lumpia with Thai Chili Sauce. For a full list of places to grab a bite to eat and enjoy some libations please take a look at our Dining section. 
Simone Cooper A publicist and branding specialist who is also a mid-century modern fanatic. When she’s not assisting clients with messaging, you can find her hunting for furniture and housewares from the 1960s.
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