Valley's best cocktails

Moscow Mule

The Place: AZ 88, 7353 Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale, 480-994-5576, az88.com

Served in a copper mug, this is a drink that bites you back. Really, that ginger beer has a seriously bitter edge. The ultra-cold drink is served on the rocks and bits of cucumber float about. It's the ideal choice for those days that feel like the Valley has become the gaping maw of hell, as it's got an effervescent bracing quality that makes your lips tingle. And if that doesn't give you shivers, we can't help you. It's also the ideal choice when looking for something you can't get everywhere else. Or when trying to pick a drink that communicates wit, adventurousness and insider-cool, or whatever kinds of clever signals you're trying to send your date. In short, it's as timeless, fresh and idiosyncratic as the place that serves it.

The Price: $9

The Magic: Vodka mixed with Cock'n Bull Ginger Beer and macerated cucumber, garnished with a cucumber slice.