3 minute read
If you’re in St. Louis and looking to elevate your summer plans, Casa Don Alfonso at The Ritz-Carlton has just announced a brand-new experience for cocktail lovers. The “Breakdown Cocktail Series,” a three-part hands-on summer cocktail class hosted by expert mixologist Bobby Mitchell, is a chance to get behind the bar and learn the craft of cocktail making in style.
Held on select Sundays throughout the summer, each class offers an immersive, themed session that blends education, entertainment, and elevated sipping. With just three events scheduled—on June 29, July 20, and August 31—locals looking to stir up something new won’t want to wait to reserve their spot.
Meet Your Guide: Bobby Mitchell
With over 15 years of experience behind bars like Four Seasons and Blood and Sand, Bobby Mitchell knows his way around a shaker. His passion for storytelling and deep knowledge of spirits turn these classes into much more than just drink-making tutorials. Each guest will walk away with hands-on skills, original cocktails, and a deeper appreciation for the craft.
What to Expect at Each Class
Every session kicks off at 4 p.m. and runs for about two hours. Guests are treated to a curated cocktail lineup that includes a welcome drink, a guided make-your-own experience, and a take-home bottled cocktail. Small bites from the Casa Don Alfonso kitchen accompany the drinks, with past offerings including Deep-Fried Calamari, Burrata Salad, and the signature Farmer’s Board.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s planned:
- Sunday, June 29 – Martinis
Learn how to craft and customize the iconic martini. This class begins with a clarified Carajillo, followed by a build-your-own pornstar martini featuring passion fruit, vanilla, and prosecco. Guests will toast with a glass of prosecco and take home an exclusive bottled cocktail. - Sunday, July 20 – Sours
Explore the bold, citrus-forward flavors of sour cocktails. Bobby will lead the evening with a classic New York-style sour, then guide guests through making an Italian sour with notes of Aperol and lemon. You’ll leave with a bottled cocktail and a head full of new tricks. - Sunday, August 31 – Spritzes
Celebrate the last days of summer with a fizzy, vibrant spritz session. Guests will enjoy a blood orange spritz and learn how to craft an Italian 75 using gin, limoncello, and prosecco. Each guest also receives a 187ml bottle of house-made blood orange “cello” to take home.
Tickets + How to Book
Tickets are $99 per person and include all cocktails, hands-on instruction, prosecco, and shared plates. Reservations are available on OpenTable and are expected to sell out quickly.
Final Sip
Whether you’re a budding home bartender or just want a fun, upscale night out in St. Louis, the Breakdown Cocktail Series at Casa Don Alfonso is a must-do this summer. Come curious, leave inspired—and maybe just a little bit buzzed.
