Cape Gazette is raising the bar this summer with Battle of the Bartenders powered by Standard Distributing Company, a bracket-style competition to find the Cape Region’s favorite bartender and celebrate the people who keep the local bar scene buzzing.
Launching alongside our Dine Out special publication on May 5, the four-week competition features the local faces behind your favorite drinks. Sixteen bartenders. One winner. Readers can vote once per day as the bracket plays out through June 2.
Each bartender will be introduced in Dine Out with a photo and short profile, giving readers a chance to connect with the personalities behind the bar as the competition begins.
The format is simple: vote daily, follow the bracket, and keep your pick in the running. As the rounds progress, the competition builds, along with the local buzz in bars and online.
“We partnered with Cape Gazette on the Battle of the Bartenders program because they are a great way for us to interact with consumers visiting our Delaware Beaches and Restaurants,” said Tim Schuler Marketing Manager. “Standard builds its brands through on-premise trial, and this program supports the people selling our products on the front line, the bartenders!”
The winning bartender will be featured on the cover of the June 25 issue of The Cape Current, along with a feature story, while standout finalists will be highlighted along the way.
Powered by Standard Distributing Company, the promotion extends beyond print and digital into participating bars, where QR codes and branded coasters make it easy for customers to vote while they’re out and about.
It’s a mix of competition, community, and a little friendly rivalry, all centered around the local spots that define summer at the beach.
Vote, follow along, and rally your friends to support your favorite bartender. Share your picks using #battleofthebartenders2026.
Voting begins May 5 at CapeGazette.com/battleofthebartenders2026. Let the battle begin.
