The Buildout

Sebastian Tollius, Beverage Director at Eleven Madison Park and co-creator of Clemente Bar, dives into the art of cocktail creation through a fine-dining lens. He shares how his journey from hotel life shaped his craft and led him to New York's culinary scene. Sebastian discusses the unique partnership with Chef Daniel Humm and the innovative design choices at Clemente, including a hidden back bar that emphasizes artistry over branding. He also highlights standout cocktails like the Clemente Martini, revealing the creative processes behind them.

Ignacio "Nacho" Jimenez, a prominent bartender and owner of Superbueno in NYC, dives into the vibrant fusion of Mexican and American bar culture. He shares his journey from early jobs to mastering bartending, influenced by mentors and his work at Ghost Donkey. Nacho discusses the unique design of Superbueno, focusing on community and seasonality in its cocktail menu. Exciting plans include a cocktail book celebrating Mexican-American drinks and potential expansions, all while keeping cultural relevance at the forefront.

GN Chan and Faye Chen, co-owners of Double Chicken Please, share their journey from flair bartenders in Taiwan to creating a cocktail bar sensation in NYC. They discuss the unique concept of cocktails that taste like food, including a beet-salad beverage that tantalizes taste buds. The duo reflects on the challenges of opening during COVID, their viral rise to fame, and the accolades that followed. Hear about their innovative two-concept space and future expansion plans, all while balancing their growing brand with personal aspirations.

Masa Urushido, the innovative bartender behind Katana Kitten in NYC, shares his journey from a shy newcomer in Japan to a celebrated cocktail creator. He discusses the mentors who shaped his skills and the camaraderie of New York’s bar scene that fueled his growth. Masa delves into the unique flavors of his menu and the challenges of crafting cocktails like the daikon martini. He emphasizes the importance of community support and gives advice to budding bar owners, encouraging them to seek guidance and embrace mentorship.

Meaghan Dorman, a pioneer in New York's craft cocktail scene and founder of the acclaimed Dear Irving, shares her inspiring journey from answering a Craigslist ad to becoming a hospitality icon. She discusses the creative influences behind Dear Irving’s design, the revival of classic cocktails like the Gibson, and her innovative table button service for a seamless guest experience. Meaghan also reflects on the challenges of opening new locations, adapting through the pandemic, and the joy of creating lasting memories for guests celebrating special moments.

In this lively discussion, St. John Frizell, co-founder of the innovative Sunken Harbor Club, shares his journey from cocktail obsession to bar ownership. Ben Schneider, restaurateur and designer, reminisces about childhood pirate plays that inspired their creative vision. Garret Richard, the cocktail mastermind, reveals the secrets behind their tropical menu and theatrical service. Together, they explore the challenges of launching a bar during COVID and how community support transformed their pop-up into a celebrated cocktail destination.

Toby Cecchini, an esteemed bartender known for his classic cocktail expertise, and Joel Tompkins, a savvy hospitality operator, share the captivating story behind the iconic Long Island Bar. They recount the twists and turns of finding their perfect space, including the serendipitous meeting that led to their lease. From their vintage drink philosophy to the sincere neighborhood support that helped them grow without PR, Toby and Joel explore what makes their bar a beloved staple and share invaluable advice for future bar owners.

Joshua Boissy, co-founder of the renowned Maison Premiere, shares his journey from childhood in restaurants to creating a New York hotspot. He reveals how a near-funding disaster almost derailed the bar’s launch, and discusses the transformative Paris trip that inspired its absinthe and oyster focus. Joshua also dives into the delicate balance of maintaining a neighborhood vibe while attracting visitors, evolving cocktail menus, and maintaining high standards amid rapid growth. His passion and advice for aspiring restaurateurs shine through this engaging conversation.

Jack McGarry, co-founder of The Dead Rabbit, shares his journey from a barback in West Belfast to owning one of New York’s top bars. He reflects on his early inspirations, including pivotal mentors and experiences that shaped his cocktail-making skills. The conversation dives into the unique concept of The Dead Rabbit, blending Irish heritage with modern innovation, and the challenges of opening in downtown NYC. Jack also discusses evolving the brand beyond awards, embracing inclusivity, and expanding into new locations while staying true to their roots.

Moe Aljaff and Juliette Larrouy, co-founders of the acclaimed Schmuck bar, share their journey from successful bars in Barcelona to establishing a new hotspot in New York City. They discuss navigating design challenges in a 'cursed' location and creating two distinct bar experiences. The duo emphasizes integrating European service styles, fostering a family-like staff environment, and adding quirky design elements like a fortune-cookie table. Their commitment to local culture and innovative operations aims to make Schmuck a lasting landmark.