Bartenders on fall’s most controversial cocktails

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 16, 2026

Bartenders nationwide are launching creative fall cocktails like PF Chang’s Matcha Martini and INDN’s Butter Face, featuring seasonal flavors and unique ingredients. These drinks offer consumers new ways to experience autumn’s warm and spicy tastes, blending tradition with innovation to suit diverse preferences.

As the autumn season arrives, bartenders across the United States are introducing innovative cocktails that embrace the flavors and spirit of the cooler months. Industry experts have shared some of the most distinctive fall-inspired drinks, ranging from traditional fruit-forward recipes to more unconventional blends.

One notable offering is the Matcha Martini, a cocktail gaining attention this season. The drink features 2 ounces of YOSHI Matcha Liqueur combined with vodka, simple syrup, and either egg white, aquafaba, or cocktail foam to create a smooth texture. This cocktail, served at PF Chang’s under the name “Autumn in Kyoto,” aims to capture the warmth and connection associated with the fall season. Jim Mazany, chief executive officer of PF Chang’s, commented that the drink is part of a limited-time menu designed to offer guests a distinct and rich experience unique to autumn.

Another innovative option comes from INDN Small Plates & Cocktail Bar in New York City’s NoMad neighborhood. Their Butter Face cocktail draws inspiration from the popular Indian dish butter chicken. The drink blends mezcal, Empirical Spirits Ayuuk, fenugreek masala, fresh lemon juice, and whole milk. Through a process called slow clarification—where the lemon juice curdles the milk before the mixture is strained—the cocktail achieves a smooth and balanced flavor profile marked by warmth and gentle spice. Simran Bakshi, cofounder of INDN, explained that the Butter Face translates the familiar spices of butter chicken into a remarkably drinkable form without heaviness.

For those who prefer lighter, fruit-forward beverages, the Sliced Apple Mojito offers a straightforward yet seasonal twist on a classic. Using mint leaves muddled with apple-flavored rum, the cocktail incorporates apple cider, lime juice, and simple syrup. The finished drink is typically served on the rocks in a Collins glass with garnishes of mint and apple slices, making it an approachable option for rum enthusiasts seeking a taste of fall.

These cocktails highlight the season’s affinity for flavors such as apple, spice, and unexpected ingredients, encouraging consumers to experiment with their autumn beverage choices. Whether patrons are drawn to innovative infusions like matcha or prefer the familiarity of fruit and mint, this year’s fall cocktail trends provide a variety of options for those looking to enjoy the season’s cozy atmosphere in a glass.

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