Celebrating Death Stranding 2 in Style With Mocktails – Part 1
We recently had the pleasure of serving game-themed mocktails at Insomniac Games’ launch party for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach in Burbank, CA.
Guests enjoyed four custom-crafted drinks inspired by the game, mixed to perfection by Ashley from Winenot Bartending. With food from Ono Hawaiian BBQ and an atmosphere full of excitement, this event was a perfect blend of creativity, community, and celebration.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the unforgettable night.
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a game launch party—especially when it’s for one of the most anticipated sequels in recent memory.
We had the absolute pleasure of catering mocktails for Insomniac Games’ Death Stranding 2 launch celebration, hosted at their studio in Burbank, California. This exclusive event marked the first of two parties dedicated to the game’s long-awaited release, and from start to finish, the energy was electric.
As attendees filtered into the venue—developers, creatives, and gaming enthusiasts alike—there was an undeniable buzz in the air. You could feel the pride and passion that went into Death Stranding 2, and we were thrilled to help bring an extra layer of fun and flavor to the evening with our custom-crafted, game-themed mocktail bar.
The Mocktail Menu
In true Death Stranding fashion, the night was all about atmosphere, storytelling, and connection. We wanted our drinks to match that same immersive spirit, and our themed mocktail lineup did just that. Each beverage was inspired by the game’s iconic characters, elements, and environments, giving guests a flavorful way to interact with the world of Death Stranding 2 outside of the screen.
Here’s what we served:
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Targarita
A mysterious, inky take on the classic margarita, our Targarita featured activated charcoal for a dramatic black hue that turned heads all night. It was tangy, refreshing, and just edgy enough to nod to the darker tones of the Death Stranding universe. -
Death Stranding on the Beach
Inspired by the classic Sex on the Beach, this mocktail packed fruity flavor with a moody twist. It was the perfect balance of playful and potent—fitting for a night celebrating a game that’s anything but conventional. -
Sam’s Mai Tai
Named after the game’s protagonist, Sam Bridges, this tropical mocktail channeled strength, survival, and that always-on-the-move energy. With citrusy layers and a hint of almond, it gave partygoers a momentary escape (no BTs in sight). -
BB Colada
A creamy, coconutty nod to the BB pods central to Death Stranding’s plot. This piña colada-inspired mocktail was a crowd favorite, as comforting and nostalgic as it was creatively on-theme.
Meet the Mixologist: Ashley from Winenot Bartending
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible talents of Ashley from Winenot Bartending. A true mixology magician, Ashley not only crafted each mocktail to perfection but also brought her infectious energy and welcoming presence to the bar all night long.
Guests were instantly drawn to her engaging style, creative drink presentation, and deep knowledge of flavor pairings.
Whether she was explaining the story behind the “Targarita” or helping someone find their perfect pour, Ashley made every interaction memorable. Her passion for bartending—and for crafting non-alcoholic beverages that still feel elevated and festive—shone through in every drink served.
Flavors, Friendship, and Fuel from Ono Hawaiian BBQ
What’s a launch party without delicious food to keep guests fueled?
The team at Insomniac Games brought in Ono Hawaiian BBQ, and their spread did not disappoint. Flavor-packed plates of grilled meats, island-style sides, and satisfying comfort food rounded out the evening’s offerings.
The combination of tropical food and mocktails gave the night a laid-back, summery vibe—perfectly balancing the intensity and mystery of Death Stranding 2 with a sense of fun and relaxation.
A Night to Remember
As the afternoon unfolded, it was clear this was more than just a party—it was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the power of storytelling. Everyone in attendance, from developers to artists to fans, shared a collective sense of pride and anticipation for what Death Stranding 2 would bring to the gaming world. We were honored to be a small part of that moment.
And while the game itself deals with solitude, survival, and rebuilding connections in a fractured world, the event was all about community. People gathered over drinks, bonded over their shared passion, and raised their glasses (mocktail glasses, that is) to a job well done and a game well launched.
Until Next Time…
We can’t wait for part two of this launch celebration—and to see how Death Stranding 2 continues to unfold in the hands of players worldwide. A huge thank you to Insomniac Games for letting us be part of such a special party, and to everyone who came up to the bar, tried something new, and embraced the theme with such enthusiasm.
Want to bring themed mocktails to your next event? Whether it’s a game launch, a corporate celebration, or something totally unique, we’d love to work with you to create something unforgettable.
Cheers to great games and even greater gatherings!