OG Twitter time – who are you and what do you do (in under 140 characters):
I’m an Italian travelling bartender who just moved to Vancouver from Barcelona to experience another culture and learn as much as I can from another part of the world.
How did you get into bartending?
After high school, I took a gap year in Australia. I was going to begin my studies in Robotics Engineering, to work in my family business, but I fell in love with travelling, which led me to the world of hospitality. Then I found out that Bartending was the most interesting way to be in that field – it’s just for me.
Do you have a definitive cocktail style?
I’d say my style is really European and I try to be as creative and experimental as I can. Being behind the bar is my theatre and I want people to enjoy the show; the drink is only apart of the experience.
Where do you look for inspiration when designing new drinks?
I take inspiration from cosmetics, perfumery and ancient cultures that I study. I have also built a “taste memory” in which every time I eat something that inspires me or resonates with me it goes into that place in my mind and I apply it to my drinks.
Any local products you are particularly excited about?
I have not had the opportunity to explore local products yet. I’m still new to the City!
Worst drink you’ve ever created?
A random red cabbage vodka drink for one of my best friends. It was cool because it was changing colour depending the ph but it was as geeky as it was horrible. I had to prepare something else, definitely.
What’s the best part of what you do? And what’s the most challenging part?
Constantly interacting with People is the best and most challenging part of what I do. It doesn’t matter who it is; colleagues, customers, providers. Sharing a smile with everybody is the best thing on the planet for me; it gives me energy. Believe me, sometimes simply doing this is really challenging.
What is your favorite spirit to work with behind the bar?
Gin probably. Super versatile but with character.
Do you have any notable “teachable moments” from behind the bar?
There was an unexpected extra busy thursday night. The kind of night you don’t even have time to breathe. I was super stressed out, couldn’t even look at the customers. My boss stopped me, looked me in the eyes and said “Heads up, focus and fucking smile”. After that, I changed my attitude and the atmosphere changed for me, people were having fun and so was I. You’re busy anyway, try to have some fun too. Everyone is going to notice that!
What’s the most memorable moment you’ve ever had working behind a bar?
My last day of work in Paradiso, in Barcelona. For the last 10 minutes of my service, I had all the customers of the bar cheering my name. EPIC. Incredible feeling.
What’s your go to drink to mix for someone who doesn’t typically drink cocktails?
Tom collins. Fast, refreshing and delicious. Easy win.
Favorite local bar? Favorite bar abroad?
Clough Club is super chill and you can drink super good stuff.
Paradiso (Barcelona) , I think they should put a picture of that place under the meaning of “Hospitality”.
On a night off, what are you doing?
Ideally, have dinner with friends and have some good wine at home or go out doing some kind of bars-route.
I also love studying, I spend many nights researching my craft, especially in Vancouver.
Your dream boilermaker? (Can be anything you like!)
Really North American this one, but if I can think about anything I’d go for a shot of mezcal and a frosty crisp lager on a mexican beach. I can dream, right?
