29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 25

Jaz’min Weaver Providing his take on what serves as the core of working in the hospitality industry, restaurateur Frank Pellegrino once said, “The object is to bring your job, whatever it is, to the level of art.” When thinking of the artistry and depth of expression that shape and define the craft cocktail world, few

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 24

Kenya Smith “If I can expose people to quality craft cocktails, spirits, and cordials to enjoy in an intimate space, I’m eager to do so.” -Kenya Smith Regardless of the establishments that host them, bartenders are often tasked with keeping up on the ever-changing world of spirit education. So much of that focus is allocated

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 23

Kayla Hensley “…remain open and learn from everybody’s little tips and tricks.” -Kayla Hensley Once jumping down the rabbit hole that is food and beverage, it can be tempting, if not necessary, to wear multiple hats. Such has been the case for Kayla Hensley. Kayla entered into the world of bartending and cocktail craft with

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 22

Alexis Akridge “…you won’t find this type of diversity in many other industries.” -Alexis Akridge The perspective of the new bartender is arguably the most valuable to the industry as a whole. A fresh set of eyes to deconstruct the machinations of an industry with immeasurable peaks, and a dark side of valleys. Though Alexis

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 21

Taurell Bush “…the most peaceful and controlled place in my life is behind the stick…” Taurell Bush Taurell Bush is a testament to the not-so-subliminal draw of the food and beverage industry. Once immersed in that pool where hospitality, craftsmanship, and stoked gratification meet, it’s not quick to shake off. The desire to stay in

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 20

Corey Clavet “…if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re probably in the wrong room.” -Corey Clavet Corey is everyone’s favorite no frills, straight-shooter. The kind of colleague you want on your team, and the kind of friend you need in your life. Her steely wit is as much a lesson in wordplay as

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 19

Andre Sykes “It’s not about you or the staff. It’s about the human being sitting in front of you.” Andre Sykes When a person enjoys what they do, it shows with undeniable clarity. Maybe that’s the pulsing glow that tends to follow Andre Sykes when he’s behind the stick. Andre has cultivated a reputation for

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 18

Lisa Posey “…all eyes (and dollars) are on you.” -Lisa Posey Lisa is a one of a kind showman, and the bar is her stage.  Few could keep the pace with her exuberant brand of hospitality, and relentless hustler mentality. Whether she’s chopping it up in her hit podcast: Adulting, modeling, or filming, Lisa brings

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 17

Mylikka Phelps “I love that look someone gets when they have the first sip of one of my drinks and their eyes light up!” -Mylikka Phelps To see Mylikka in action is to recognize the gift of synergy she brings to her restaurant family. While devoting nearly a decade to fine-tuning her brand of hospitality,

29 Days of Black Bartenders: Day 16

Kevin Daniel “Don’t fuck up.” -Kevin Daniel Kevin is less than five years deep in his bartending career, but he already has fans of his hospitality all across the city and beyond. The unofficial hype-man behind every rail he tends, Kevin approaches his craft with the kind of bright-eyed enthusiasm that could endear even the