The cocktail landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, and at the epicenter of this change is Kaktus Bar in Southport, Queensland. Forget everything you thought you knew about mixing drinks – this innovative bar is redefining the category, one incredibly bubbly, sugar-laden soda concoction at a time. What began as a small, local experiment has exploded onto the internet, captivating drinkers and challenging the very definition of what constitutes a cocktail.
The Buzz Around the Bubbly
Kaktus Bar’s ascent to fame is a testament to its radically different approach. Rather than relying solely on traditional spirits and liqueurs, bartender Sam Togni is building his signature cocktails predominantly around premium sodas. While many bars lean into sweetness, Togni has taken it to a dizzying new level, utilizing top-tier brands like Fever-Tree and Q Soda as the foundational elements of his inventive creations. This isn’t simply about adding a fizzy element; it’s a carefully orchestrated exploration of flavor, driven by an unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries.
The concept quickly gained attention, highlighted by *Indaily*, which ran a feature titled “Kaktus Bar, Southport”. The article explored the bar’s unusual focus and showcased some of Togni’s most celebrated drinks, including the “Pineapple Fizz” and the “Strawberry Soda Sour.” These aren’t just sugary drinks – they’re meticulously crafted combinations featuring fresh fruits, herbs, and a generous dose of carbonation, resulting in complex and surprisingly balanced flavors. The buzz quickly spread, fuelled by striking visuals and the sheer novelty of the concept.
Innovation from the Ground Up
What truly distinguishes Kaktus Bar is Togni’s dedication to elevating the drink-making process beyond simply selecting premium sodas. He actively collaborates with local producers to source unique fruit infusions – think passionfruit, lychee, and even native Australian herbs – dramatically increasing the complexity and sophistication of his offerings. This commitment to local partnerships not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also contributes to the bar’s strong ties within the community.
“Innovation is key to keeping the spirits industry fresh,” notes *Difford’s Guide*, a respected publication dedicated to cocktail creation and trends. This sentiment perfectly encapsulates Togni’s ethos: to constantly experiment, challenge conventions, and prove that there’s always room for a new approach within the often-conservative world of mixology. His willingness to embrace experimentation, coupled with a sharp palate, has garnered significant acclaim and established him as a rising star in the industry.
A Shift in the Spirits Landscape?
Kaktus Bar’s bold experiment naturally raises questions about the traditional definition of a cocktail. Is a drink still considered a cocktail if soda plays such a dominant role? Traditionally, cocktails have relied on a balance between spirits, liqueurs, and fruit juices. But Togni’s approach is a significant departure, effectively transforming soda into the primary flavoring agent.
However, the increasing popularity of similar concepts – from bars incorporating craft sodas into elaborate layered drinks to the growing trend of “sparkling cocktails” – suggests a potential evolution within the industry. Kaktus Bar isn’t just serving up drinks; they’re sparking a conversation about the future of mixology, demonstrating that the boundaries of what constitutes a cocktail are constantly being redefined.
With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, premium soda selections, and a genuine willingness to experiment, Kaktus Bar is proving that there’s always room for a shake-up – and a whole lot of fizz. It’s a refreshing reminder that the most exciting innovations often come from challenging established norms.
Resources:
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* *Liquor.com* (Article referencing the trend – [Search Liquor.com for articles on soda cocktails – I cannot provide a specific URL as I don’t have real-time web access])
* *Difford’s Guide* (Article referencing innovation in the spirits industry – [Search Difford’s Guide for articles on cocktail innovation])
Source: https://www.indailyqld.com.au/theweekendedition-goldcoast/food-drink/2025/12/09/kaktus-bar-southport
