Annual Bartenders Ball Showcases Local Favorites

Motif magazine hosted its 2025 Rhode Island Bartenders Ball and awards at R1 Indoor Karting in Lincoln on Sept. 29. Rhode Island residents were invited to vote for their favorite mixologists and venues prior to the event in a variety of categories from the funniest to the best singing bartender. Guests enjoyed performances from the Providence Drum Troupe, Danielle Riley, The Bimbo Factory and DJ Steeley Chris. With O’Brien & Brough sponsoring the mixology competition, five bartenders crafted their best with Lime Rock Gin as the base spirit. Nichole Bonollo, Owner, Sippin’ Pretty Mobile Bar, won the cocktail competition, with Patrick Hamilton, Skeff’s Pub, in second place. Visit motifri.com/bartender-award-winners for the full list of categories and winners.

: Motif magazine hosted its 2025 Rhode Island bartender awards at R1 Indoor Karting in Lincoln on Sept. 29.

: Mike Ryan, Publisher, Motif magazine.

: Event Co-host Belle Gunz.

: Vito Lantz, Co-owner, Lucky Enough and Event Emcee.

: Mixology competition bartenders: Dominique Stromley, Track 15; Aleia Morin, Y Noodle & Bar; Nichole Bonollo, Owner, Sippin’ Pretty Mobile Bar; Patrick Hamilton, Skeff’s Pub; and Brendan Maddock, The Square Peg Restaurant & Bar and Stingy Alley.