Nick Matio & C3 Bloomington Repeats as “Best Cocktails in Bloomington”

Bloomington, IN - April/May 2025

Following their initial recognition last year in 2024, C3 Bloomington was once again named Best Cocktails in Bloomington in Bloom Magazine’s second annual Bloomington Restaurant Survey, reinforcing the strength and consistency of its bar program.

Under the direction of Bar Manager and sole mixologist Nick Matio, C3’s cocktail menu continued to evolve, building on the foundation established in the previous year while introducing new concepts, refined techniques, and seasonally driven offerings.

Nick remained the creative force behind the program, independently researching, designing, and executing each cocktail featured on the menu. His ability to continuously refresh the experience while maintaining a cohesive identity played a key role in securing a second consecutive win.

The recognition reflected more than a single standout menu, it spoke to consistency over time. C3 had not only delivered an award-winning cocktail program once, but had sustained and elevated it in a way that resonated with guests and voters alike.

As Bloomington’s dining scene continued to grow, C3’s back-to-back recognition positioned it firmly at the forefront of the city’s cocktail culture. The bar program had become known for its balance of creativity and accessibility, offering drinks that were both innovative and deeply enjoyable.

This second win further underscored the principles that would continue to define Nick’s work: thoughtful development, attention to detail, and a commitment to crafting experiences that feel both intentional and memorable.

Together, C3’s continued success and Nick’s evolving approach helped solidify a reputation that would carry forward, both within the restaurant and in the broader vision behind Mixed By Matio Consulting.