Phoenix, AZ, July 27, 2025
News Summary
Little Rituals, located in downtown Phoenix, has been awarded the title of Best U.S. Hotel Bar at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Co-owners Aaron DeFeo and Ross Simon expressed gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the pivotal role of teamwork and mentorship in their success. Since opening in 2019, the bar has maintained a high standard of service and innovative cocktail offerings, earning numerous accolades along the way. Their signature drink, The Ponzie Scheme, showcases a creative approach to mixology, further contributing to their esteemed reputation.
Phoenix, AZ – Little Rituals, a notable bar located at the Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott in downtown Phoenix, has been recognized as the Best U.S. Hotel Bar at the prestigious Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards held on July 24, 2025 in New Orleans. This award marks a significant achievement for the bar, which had been a finalist for this honor for three consecutive years prior to this win.
The Spirited Awards celebrate excellence in the hospitality industry, specifically highlighting hotel bars that offer top-notch service and a strong cocktail menu in a relaxed atmosphere. Little Rituals, which opened its doors in 2019 shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the hospitality landscape, stood out for maintaining a commitment to quality drinks and customer experience throughout challenging times.
Co-owners Aaron DeFeo and Ross Simon expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, with DeFeo particularly emphasizing the critical role of teamwork and mentorship in achieving the bar’s success. Lead bartender Frank De La Cruz was also acknowledged for his significant contributions to the bar’s reputation during the acceptance speech at the awards ceremony.
In addition to the recent accolade, Little Rituals has earned a Pinnacle Guide Pin in May 2024, a distinct global recognition for cocktail bars, and has previously been a semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar on multiple occasions. The bar is well-known for its innovative cocktails, including signature drinks like The Ponzie Scheme, which features marigold-infused Eagle Rare bourbon, showcasing the establishment’s creative approach to mixology.
The Spirited Awards also recognized Libby Lingua from Highball in Phoenix as a finalist for U.S. Bartender of the Year, with the award ultimately going to Christine Kim from Service Bar in Washington, D.C. This year’s event featured congratulatory messages on social media, including one from Jason Asher of Juniper & Jigger praising DeFeo’s growth as a bar owner.
Little Rituals aims to reflect the vibrant culture of Phoenix while also cherishing the support it has received from the local community and its guests. The bar’s location at 132 S. Central Ave., 4th Floor, Phoenix, paired with its varied cocktail offerings, continues to attract patrons looking for an exceptional bar experience.
For further details, interested individuals can contact Little Rituals at 602-603-2050 or visit their website at littleritualsbar.com.
Background of Little Rituals
Little Rituals was established with the intention of preserving the classic hotel bar experience while incorporating a modern twist. Since its inception, it has become a staple in downtown Phoenix’s vibrant bar scene. Over the years, the bar has gained a reputation for both innovation in cocktail crafting and attention to customer service, making it a prominent choice for locals and visitors alike.
About the Spirited Awards
The Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards is an annual event celebrating excellence and creativity in the global cocktail community. This year’s event brought together industry leaders and enthusiasts to honor those who have made significant contributions to the field.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Award | Best U.S. Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards |
| Location | Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott, Downtown Phoenix |
| Year Established | 2019 |
| Signature Cocktail | The Ponzie Scheme |
| Pinnacle Guide Pin | Received in May 2024 |
| James Beard Award | Semifinalist for Outstanding Bar |
FAQ
What is Little Rituals known for?
Little Rituals is known for its complex cocktails and commitment to excellent service as a hotel bar located in Phoenix, AZ.
When was Little Rituals established?
Little Rituals was established in 2019.
What award did Little Rituals recently win?
Little Rituals won the Best U.S. Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards.
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Additional Resources
- Mouth By Southwest
- Phoenix New Times
- AZ Central
- Phoenix Magazine
- Google Search: Hotel Bars in Phoenix
