Applebee’s Launches ‘Vina-Rita’ Cocktail Created By Applebee’s Bartender – Perfect For Summer Sippin’

To Be Served at Nearly 440 Locations Across 23 States During July and August

Apple American Group’s Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Flynn Restaurant Group, announced it has launched a new cocktail perfect for summer sippin’ – the ‘Vina-Rita,’ a unique twist on the traditional margarita featuring Teremana Blanco tequila and finished with a floater of Sutter Home Cabernet Sauvignon. The Vina-Rita is available at for a suggested price of $9.00 at participating Applebee’s locations during July and August. Prices may vary.

Created during the Applebee’s 2023 Mixology Contest, which challenges its teams to create summer-themed cocktails capable of piquing guests’ interest. Each was judged according to presentation, creative twist and flavor profiles while also complementing Applebee’s wide selection of menu items. Michelle Sykora, Oakdale, MN resident and 23-year bartender at Applebee’s of Oak Park Heights, concocted the Vina-Rita netting her a $1,000 grand prize and the distinction of the drink being sold at nearly 440 participating Applebee’s locations nationwide.  

“When deciding on the cocktail I wanted to create, I borrowed a little inspiration from one of Applebee’s existing drinks – the Perfect Margarita – which is a personal favorite,” said Michelle Sykora. “As a fan of red wine and a solid margarita, I decided to blend those two flavor profiles and the result was delicious. And the Vina-Rita was born.”

Many Yin, a Lowell, MA resident and 22-year bartender at Applebee’s of Tewksbury, took second place, winning a $500 prize for his Tropical Kiss cocktail made with Tito’s vodka, peach schnapps, pineapple juice and passion fruit syrup.

www.AppleAmerican.com