FIRST: Ray’s Place Long Island Iced Tea

A longtime favorite of Kent residents, Ray’s Place is known for its coveted version of a Long Island Iced Tea. A mix of rum, gin, triple sec, sour mix and Coke is the perfect drink for someone looking for a refreshing cocktail.

Ray’s Place Owner Charlie Thomas said the way they create their cocktails is what makes the beloved Long Island distinct from other restaurants and bars.

“We don’t have a mix,” Thomas said. “We make them all from scratch.” 

The ingredients make a lasting impression on people, earning Ray’s Place recognition from the community for their Long Island.

SECOND: Barrio’s Margarita

Barrio’s margaritas have been a consistent favorite of Kent residents.

Amanda Burns, one of Barrio’s assistant managers, said the wide variety of margarita flavors is what keeps people coming back.

“You can mix and match all the flavors,” Burns said. “We also have a good selection of in-house, specialty margaritas that I really, really love.”

Barrio’s happy hour prices are ones to keep an eye on, with $5 house margaritas Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. For those who can’t get enough of the margaritas, Barrio also offers a $15 pitcher during happy hour.

 THIRD: Zephyr’s Slushie

While Zephyr Pub has a lot of cocktail options, its most popular drink is the Zephyr slushie.     

Kent State alumna Laina Galayde said one of her go-to drinks in Kent is Zephyr’s slushie because of how fun the presentation feels.

“There’s just something about getting a slushie at a bar that’s way more fun than getting any other kind of regular mixed cocktail drink,” Galayde said. “It’s childish, it feels great and it’s super fun.”

Kayla Gleason is a campus editor. Contact her at [email protected].