Carry On Bartender Triumphs in Phoenix’s Epic Cocktail Showdown: Last Slinger Standing

Ruben Fernandez, III, looked on in admiration during the local bartending competition, Last Slinger Standing, in 2018. He was captivated by the skill and precision of the competitors. “I was like this is crazy, these people must be so good, I could never do that,” Fernandez recalls, reflecting on the event.

Fast forward to this year, and Fernandez is no longer just an observer. He has transitioned from spectator to competitor, participating in the very event that once inspired him. The Last Slinger Standing competition has built a reputation for showcasing the finest bartending talents in the area.

Contestants face off in a series of challenges designed to test their speed, creativity, and cocktail-making abilities. The shifts in formats and events each year keep both competitors and the audience engaged.

Fernandez emphasizes the camaraderie among bartenders, pointing out that while they compete fiercely, they also support one another. “We’re all in this together,” he notes, highlighting the community spirit that underpins the competition.

As this year’s event approaches, excitement builds within the local bartending scene. Fernandez’s transformation from onlooker to participant underscores the impact of such competitions in empowering local talent. With newcomers stepping up and veterans returning, the stage is set for an electrifying contest.

This year, audience members can expect not only thrilling bartending feats but also a showcase of creativity and technique that defines the art of mixology.