The Modern Bar Cart Podcast Episode 305 - Building Iconic Bar Programs with Toby Maloney
Oct 30, 2025
Toby Maloney, an accomplished bartender and consultant known for his work at Milk & Honey and The Violet Hour, shares his journey from busboy to cocktail innovator. He reflects on the tumultuous launch of The Violet Hour and its pivotal role in the Cocktail Renaissance. Toby also discusses opening bars in 2025, emphasizing rapid service innovations like pre-batched 'Flavor Booms' and unique pouring techniques. He dives into the potential for Gen Z's 'Fern Bar' moment, revealing exciting trends in the beverage landscape.
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From Kitchen To Cocktail Pioneer
- Toby Maloney traced his hospitality career from bussing and culinary school to bartending at Milk & Honey and opening The Violet Hour in 2007.
- He describes the Elbow Room project as restoring a 1970s time-capsule bar and loving the creative process there.
Cocktails Became Cultural Identity
- The Cocktail Renaissance shifted expectations: bartenders now measure, use fresh ingredients, and teach guests to trust them.
- Toby says drinking choices became expressions of identity, broadening customers' openness to crafted cocktails.
Why Customers Initially Rebelled
- Toby recalls opening The Violet Hour with strict rules like few vodkas, no standing, and long wait times, which initially angered patrons.
- He notes early hostility gradually eased as people learned to appreciate measured, crafted drinks.
