In the heart of downtown Phoenix, things are shaking up at Little Rituals, a bar perched on the fourth floor of the Residence Inn by Marriott, which has just been crowned the best hotel bar in the United States at the 2025 Spirited Awards. The annual awards ceremony, which is part of the Tales of the Cocktail conference held in New Orleans, celebrates excellence in the cocktail and bar industry nationally and internationally.
The prestigious recognition is a nod to Little Rituals' dedication to transforming the typical hotel bar experience into something more vibrant and connected to the local community. As reported by FOX 10 Phoenix, co-owner Aaron Defeo stated, "We wanted to be vibrant and part of the community and places was known for cocktails and incredible food and like a destination." The award thus serves as validation of their mission to revitalize what a hotel bar can represent.
Little Rituals' success is largely due to their meticulous attention to detail — from hand-prepared syrups to juices and cocktails that take days to prepare. Defeo, in an interview with FOX 10 Phoenix, explained that these "little rituals" played a critical part in their recognition as the top honor in the spirits world. This is a title they've coveted for years, and after consistently ranking in the top four, their breakthrough as winners marks a new chapter for the establishment.
Upon receiving the award, Defeo gratefully acknowledged the role of partnerships and mentorship in their rise to prominence. "I wouldn't be here tonight without my partner Ross Simon. He did all of those things for me and for the other people at Little Rituals. He took a chance on us and this award is his as much as anyone else's," Defeo proclaimed, as captured by Phoenix New Times. Ross Simon, also a notable figure in the Phoenix cocktail scene, shares in this accomplishment and praises the team's unwavering dedication to their craft.
Little Rituals, located at 132 S. Central Ave., promises an intimate and refined atmosphere with dazzling starburst chandeliers and views of downtown that pair with a menu boasting expertly crafted cocktails and savory dishes. The journey to the Spirited Awards is intense, with rounds of nominations leading up to the final ceremony in late July. Last year, Little Rituals were a top-four finalist, but this year they emerged victorious, inspiring the cocktail industry with their commitment to innovation and quality, as noted by Charlotte Voisey, Executive Director of Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, in a statement to Phoenix New Times.
