Toronto, brace yourselves—something deliciously unexpected is landing in your glass. From October 6 to 12, 2025, the very first Italian Cocktail Revolution will transform ten of the city’s slickest bars into immersive portals to Italy’s rich sipping culture. Spearheaded by the Italian Trade Agency and energized by bartenders flown in straight from Florence, this isn’t just a bar crawl—it’s a full-on takeover of taste, technique, and liquid artistry.
The mastermind behind the buzz? The head bartender of Locale Firenze, one of Florence’s top-tier cocktail institutions (and ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2025). His presence marks a signal: this is not your average Italian-themed week. It’s a serious celebration of the craftsmanship, heritage, and flair behind Italy’s best sips.
Opening night kicks off in style on October 6 with an exclusive “Italian Spirits in Cocktails” masterclass at the Fairmont Royal York. Expect deep dives into what makes Italian spirits unique—from botanical profiles to regional quirks—guided by Canadian mixologist heavyweights and guest experts. Day two continues with “Italian Bartending in the Modern Age,” an insider’s look at how modern techniques and tradition meld behind the bar—led by that very same bartender from Locale Firenze.
Then things get deliciously decentralized. From October 7 through 12, ten of Toronto’s most beloved cocktail hotspots will host “Italian Cocktail Week.” Each venue pairs with a premium Italian spirit—like Nonino, Luxardo, Cocchi, Favignana Gin, and Varnelli—to serve up signature drinks crafted just for this event. You’ll find these Italian-infused creations in spots like Mordecai (Nonino), Crybaby (Luxardo), Library Bar (Favignana Gin), and more.
Why Toronto? Because Canada is a compelling market for spirits, especially imports. In 2024 alone, its spirits imports hit $1.5B; Italy captured $55M or 4.5% of that share—and that’s up 5% in a year, and 55% since 2019. The Italian Trade Agency sees this as the moment to push Italian spirits into the spotlight—and to do it in style.
For you cocktail lovers and nightlife adventurers, this is your moment. Will you join the cocktail crawl, hopping from bar to bar, tasting how each team reinterprets Italy’s classics? Or will you go full deep dive—attending masterclasses, soaking in stories, and sipping side-by-side with the bartending greats? The choice is yours.
Expect more than just a splash of Campari or a twist of citrus. This brings immersive speakeasy vibes, storytelling in every glass, and the theatrical flair that Italy does best. It’s designed to tantalize eyes, brains, and palates. And the timing is perfect—for fall, when evenings lengthen and Toronto’s nightlife is primed for something new.
Whether you’re already a cocktail obsessive or someone looking to impress on your next night out, this week offers a rare chance to taste Italy without hopping a plane. Pour in, show up, and let these Florentine bartenders transport you—one sip at a time.
Italian Cocktail Revolution runs October 6-12, 2025 across multiple Toronto venues. Masterclasses take place at the Fairmont Royal York. More details and tickets available via Italian Cocktail Revolution events listings.