Pictured: Second from the left, the Canary is one of the exciting craft cocktails that will be featured at Rufa's Dia de los Muertos Celebration. Photo credit: Peter Acker Photography.

The creative culinary team at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota always promises to deliver something magical. On Friday, October 31 from 8pm to midnight, prepare to be dazzled by the debut of some inventive new cocktails at the Day of the Dead celebration at Rufa, the Ritz’s al fresco dining experience.

“These cocktails were inspired by Día de los Muertos,” says Assistant Food and Beverage Manager Heidi Finley. “The holiday is a beautiful blend of remembrance, color and connection — a time to celebrate life while honoring those who came before us. The use of vibrant flavors, unique infusions and bright color palettes reflect the energy and artistry of the holiday itself. It’s about transformation, memory and joy.”

Like the other cocktails at Rufa, each cocktail has been named after a bird: the Cardinal, the Pelican, the Osprey and the Canary. While each one is thoughtfully crafted, the Canary stands out as bright, elegant and a little unexpected — just like the bird itself. It combines the smooth, crystalline notes of Patrón Cristalino with the smoky edge of Illegal Mezcal and the alpine freshness of Genepy. The yellow pepper–chamomile syrup adds a delicate balance of floral sweetness and gentle spice, while the chili tincture provides a subtle warmth that lingers. The result is a cocktail that feels alive. Crisp citrus from the lemon, a whisper of smoke, and a soft, peppery heat that invites another sip. It’s both refined and playful like a burst of sunlight in a glass.

“This event is more than a menu, it’s an experience that honors tradition through creativity,” says Finley. “Each cocktail tells its own story, crafted with intention and infused with ingredients that celebrate both Latin heritage and coastal Sarasota culture. From the design of the drinks to the sensory presentation, we want guests to feel that connection. To sip something that celebrates life, memory and artistry all at once.”

This experience is open to locals and guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota alike. Reservations are not required but suggested and can be made on Rufa’s OpenTable page here: https://www.opentable.com/r/rufa-sarasota.

Rufa, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr., Sarasota, 941-309-2000.

Pictured: Second from the left, the Canary is one of the exciting craft cocktails that will be featured at Rufa's Dia de los Muertos Celebration. Photo credit: Peter Acker Photography.