National Vodka Day at The Feast Restaurant on Holmes Beach
Mark your calendars—this coming Saturday, October 4th, 2025, is National Vodka Day, and there’s no better place to celebrate than The Feast Restaurant in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island. Whether you prefer your vodka neat, mixed into a refreshing cocktail, or as a complement to a delicious dish, The Feast invites you to raise a glass and toast to the spirit that has been cherished for centuries across the globe. This National Vodka Day, discover how vodka’s storied past meets modern mixology in one of Florida’s most delightful beachside dining experiences.
A Toast to Tradition: The Rich History of Vodka
Vodka, derived from the Slavic word “voda” meaning “water,” has a legacy that stretches back over a thousand years. Though both Russia and Poland claim to be its birthplace, the earliest records of vodka production date to the 8th or 9th century in Eastern Europe. Initially used for medicinal purposes, vodka evolved into a cultural staple—celebrated in royal courts, military rations, and family gatherings alike.
By the 17th century, vodka production was formalized and taxed by Russian Tsars. In Poland, it was being infused with herbs and fruits for both flavor and health. The 20th century saw vodka spread across Europe and into the United States, particularly after World War II, when returning soldiers brought a taste for the clean, smooth spirit. Vodka became a symbol of modern sophistication in postwar America, thanks in part to marketing campaigns touting it as “odorless, tasteless”—and the perfect mixer for any cocktail.
Vodka’s Rise in America
Vodka didn’t just survive in the American spirits market—it thrived. By the 1970s, vodka had overtaken gin and whiskey as the most consumed spirit in the United States. Thanks to its versatility, it became the go-to base for countless iconic cocktails like the Martini, Bloody Mary, Screwdriver, and Moscow Mule. Today, vodka continues to evolve with trends, showing up in everything from infused craft cocktails to ready-to-drink seltzers.
According to a report by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, vodka accounted for more than one-third of all spirits volume in the U.S. in recent years, with American consumers embracing everything from high-end Russian imports to locally distilled organic vodkas.
Vodka Cocktails at The Feast Restaurant
At The Feast Restaurant, we honor the legacy and versatility of vodka by offering a carefully curated selection of vodka-based cocktails that pair beautifully with our chef-crafted menu. Whether you’re unwinding after a day at the beach or kicking off a night out on Anna Maria Island, our cocktails are crafted with premium ingredients and creative flair.
1. The Classic Vodka Martini
Made with your choice of top-shelf vodka and a whisper of dry vermouth, our Vodka Martini is served ice cold with a twist of lemon or a pair of olives. It’s a timeless favorite that pairs exceptionally well with seafood starters like our Escargot or Lump Crab & Artichoke Dip.
2. Island Mule
A refreshing twist on the Moscow Mule, our Island Mule features vodka, fresh lime juice, and spicy ginger beer, garnished with mint and served in a copper mug. The perfect pairing for a warm evening on Holmes Beach, this cocktail complements our Blackened Shrimp Tacos or Seared Ahi Tuna like a dream.
3. Lemon Basil Vodka Smash
This herbaceous and citrus-forward creation uses vodka, muddled basil, fresh lemon, and a hint of simple syrup for a bright, clean finish. It’s light and zesty—ideal with our Caprese Salad or Grilled Mahi-Mahi.
4. The Beach Breeze
Vodka, cranberry, pineapple, and a splash of soda come together for a tropical flavor explosion. This crowd-pleaser is excellent with The Feast’s Signature Grouper Sandwich or even the Key Lime Pie for a sweet finish to your meal.
Premium Vodka Selections
The Feast’s bar features a wide selection of top-shelf vodkas, including:
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka – A Texas favorite, known for its smoothness and distilled from corn.
- Grey Goose – A French vodka celebrated for its clean, crisp profile, perfect for martinis.
- Ketel One – Dutch craftsmanship in every sip, excellent for both cocktails and sipping.
- Absolut – A Swedish classic, offering great flavor profiles for mixing.
- Belvedere – A luxurious Polish vodka, ideal for a sophisticated night out.
Ask your server about our seasonal infused vodkas and craft cocktail specials that rotate regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients and local inspiration.
Perfect Pairings: Vodka and The Feast’s Signature Dishes
Vodka is known for its ability to elevate a wide range of flavors, from rich and creamy to bright and acidic. Here’s how you can pair The Feast’s vodka cocktails with some of our most popular dishes:
Seafood Lovers’ Paradise
The clean, neutral profile of vodka complements seafood exceptionally well. Try a Grey Goose Vodka Martini with our Escargot or Crab & Artichoke Dip. The salinity and richness of these dishes are perfectly balanced by the cold, smooth sip of a premium vodka-based cocktail.
Fresh and Zesty Salads
Pair our Lemon Basil Vodka Smash with the Caprese Salad or Garden Fresh Salad. The acidity and herbal notes of the cocktail mirror the freshness of these dishes, making for a vibrant and satisfying course.
Grilled Entrées
The Island Mule brings just enough spice and citrus to complement heartier entrées like our Grilled Ribeye or Chicken Marsala. The zing of the ginger beer cuts through the richness of the dishes for a delightful balance.
Dessert and a Toast
End your meal with The Feast’s famous Key Lime Pie, paired with a chilled Beach Breeze cocktail. The tropical flavors of pineapple and cranberry with vodka highlight the pie’s tart and creamy notes.
Why Celebrate National Vodka Day at The Feast?
The Feast Restaurant isn’t just another dining spot—it’s a cherished culinary destination on Anna Maria Island, known for its commitment to quality, flavor, and warm hospitality. With the addition of our full liquor bar and expertly crafted cocktail menu, your experience is more elevated than ever. This National Vodka Day, we invite locals and visitors alike to join us for a vibrant evening of fine food and exceptional drinks in the heart of Holmes Beach.
Raise a Glass This Saturday!
Whether you’re a vodka aficionado or just discovering the spirit’s wide appeal, there’s no better day to indulge than National Vodka Day—and no better place to do so than The Feast Restaurant. With a curated selection of premium vodkas, handcrafted cocktails, and thoughtfully paired menu items, your evening is sure to be unforgettable.
Plan your visit:
www.thefeastrestaurant.com
5406 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Phone: (941) 778-5092
Make a reservation, explore our dinner menu, or simply stop by for a cocktail at the bar—we’ll have a seat and a smile waiting for you.
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Celebrate Responsibly
And finally, remember that while National Vodka Day is a great excuse to celebrate, always drink responsibly. Arrange for a designated driver, call a cab, or take a scenic walk home on Anna Maria’s beautiful moonlit streets. Cheers to vodka—and cheers to you!
