The Violet Hour, Chicago.

Wine has always ruled the culinary world, but the past several years have seen craft cocktails steal some of the spotlight as restaurants get creative with the drinks served from behind the bar. This year, the James Beard Foundation made a nod to spirits’ elevated status—adding an Outstanding Bar Programs category to the 2012 award nominees. These five restaurants made the cut for their superior libations—check out our Forbes.com article on the scene and signature creations at each.

Photo courtesy of The Violet Hour.