Acropolis Greek Taverna:
Meet Cynthia LeGrand!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Acropolis Greek Taverna. 4 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Fun, flirtatious, fast.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I started out serving and the owner thought I had the personality of a bartender, so I was promoted to bartending. I love the fast-paced environment and working with people! Another great thing about bartending at Acropolis is that I can bring my creativity to life by coming up with new and exciting cocktails.
Why should someone come into Acropolis to grab a drink by you?
Acropolis has unique and fantastic specialty drinks that you won't find in other restaurants. When I'm behind the bar, you can always expect great service and my rockin' style!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
A perfectly-blended flavor profile with the right alcohol balance.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it! "Opa! Summer-rita"—a fresh fruit twist on a classic cocktail.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Not only does Acropolis have some of the best specialty drinks, but we've been working on many new craft specialty cocktails, including fresh twists on margaritas. My refreshing "Opa! Summer-rita" surprise is sure to please every margarita lover out there!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Tell the competition to watch out! OPA!!!
1833 E. 7th Ave., Tampa 813.242.4545
acropolistaverna.com
Anise Global Gastrobar:
Meet Evan Campbell!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Anise Global Gastrobar. 8 months.
Where do you bartend?
Anise Global Gastrobar.
How long have you been there?
7 months.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Passion, dedication, and attention-to-detail.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I've been working in the restaurant and service industry since I was 16. There was something about working behind the bar that always intrigued me, so I started seeking barback jobs in hopes of learning/working behind the bar and one day, becoming a great bartender. I'm extremely fortunate to work at Anise where I get to learn from some of the best bartenders I've ever had the pleasure to work with! Picking one aspect of bartending that I enjoy is difficult, but I'd have to say it's putting my creative spin on the cocktails I create and letting my passion and heart flow into each and every cocktail I make.
Why should someone come into Anise to grab a drink by you?
Anise is, in my opinion, the best bar/restaurant in Tampa! Our staff is, hands down, the best group of people I've ever had the pleasure to work with. We have a very tightly knit family environment and, as a patron coming in, you constantly see it. My first bartending job was at a hotel in downtown Tampa and I came into Anise multiple times a week for several months. I can attest to the warm friendly staff, comfortable decor, music (and our extremely talented vinyl spinning DJ, Jay Marley!), addictive and amazing food made by Chef Mary Paff, or any of our delectable hand-crafted cocktails made by our talented bartenders. Anise always keeps you coming back for more! It’s truly a unique, one-of-a-kind establishment!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Balance. The right amount of sweet and sour. Freshly squeezed lime juice is very important to me in a margarita. I prefer simple syrup or agave nectar as my sweetener and always have something spicy in there! But, most importantly, the tequila! It's the backbone of any margarita. I could sit here and talk about tequila all day!
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
The name of my margarita is "Sweet Heat"—the perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy, fruity, and savory. Without giving too much away before the competition, I'll use pepper, infuse the tequila, and add fresh lime juice, a flavored agave nectar, and fresh fruit. For full disclosure, come try it on July 30th!
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Like every drink I make, I poured my heart into my margarita. I worked countless hours off the clock creating and perfecting my margarita, and from the reception and praise I've gotten from it, I believe it’s going to be difficult to top my concoction! About a month ago, we had a small in-house margarita competition at work to see who would represent Anise at Margarita Wars. The batch I made sold out in less than 2 hours, which definitely gave me a huge boost in confidence. Also, I'm going to have some of my wonderful, helpful coworkers assisting me at the competition on July 30th. With their help and support, I have all the confidence in the world!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I'm extremely humbled and blessed to have the honor of representing Anise Global Gastrobar at Margarita Wars. I'm only 24 years old, have only a year of bartending experience under my belt, and this is my first cocktail competition. I am very excited about this opportunity and hope to represent Anise in many competitions to come!
777 N. Ashley Dr., Tampa 813.225.4272
aniseglobalgastrobar.com
The Birchwood:
Meet Michael D. Carlton Jr.!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
The Birchwood. 2 weeks.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Professional, personal, fun.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I've been in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years. I love food, wine, and spirits. In the great resurgence of classics and twists on classics, I started to realize that cocktails were just as essential as food to a great evening out. It sparked a drive in me to get behind the bar create and have fun!
Why should someone come into The Birchwood to grab a drink by you?
I've waited tables in fine dining for years and one thing I learned is how to read people and do everything possible to make their experience incomparable, making a great impression for every guest.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
The great balance of fresh sweet and sour with a full-bodied tequila.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
"BluYu Margarita." I love blueberries, and one of my favorite cocktails I've ever enjoyed was at Morimoto's in Hawaii—a delicious yuzu gimlet. I've created a blueberry yuzu margarita with a cayenne/sugar rim.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of 'Tampa Bay's Best Margarita'?
It's a refreshing classic margarita. People love my mini margarita's at my bar. I'm just here to have fun and create. If I win, I win!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Let's have some fun slinging great margaritas! Good luck to everyone.
340 Beach Dr. N.E. St., St Petersburg 727.896.1080 | thebirchwood.com
The Bourgeois Pig
Meet Chuck Tobin!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
The Bourgeois Pig. 6 months.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Energetic, entertaining, service-minded.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I'm a third generation of service industry. My favorite thing is all of the great people I meet.
Why should someone come into The Bourgeois Pig to grab a drink by you?
Great cocktail-versation!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Fresh ingredients combined in a thoughtful manner.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
"Jalapeño Basil and Grapefruit Margarita"—a margarita built with fresh organic herbs and fruits.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Because my margarita is amazing!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I look forward to enjoying everyone else’s margarita. That’s how great drinks are created—when great minds meet.
7701 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, FL 813.609.4700
bourgeoispigrestaurant.com
The Bricks of Ybor
Meet Kyle Nalls!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
The Bricks of Ybor. 2 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Mellow, mythodical, interesting.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
Bartending was kind of a last resort job. When I was young and had nothing else, I ended up working with all my friends and loving the industry! I'll never leave it!
Why should someone come into The Bricks to grab a drink by you?
We're the best bar in Ybor City! We have all the things you could ever want with a non-snobby feel! We offer local craft beers on tap, a huge selection of craft spirits, a coffee bar, fantastic sandwiches, and a really awesome crew!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Lots of tequila, a little spice, some fresh fruit.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
Thaigerita. This margarita is coming from an Asian inspiration and a love for the cuisine. I'm bringing the elements of the Thai chili, some fresh fruits, and some Asian herbs together. Expect some heat with a fresh fruit cooling element!
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
We can all do the same things with a cocktail, but I feel it's all about the balance of ingredients that make a great cocktail.
1327 E. 7th Ave., Tampa 813.247.1785
thebricksybor.com
Datz
Meet Morgan Zuch!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Datz. 2.5 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Classic, twisted, creative.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I started off as a server and always had an aspiration to be behind the bar because of the one-on-one interactions with guests and the on-stage aspect while you're making drinks. I feel like there's a certain appreciation from your guests when you can create a memorable experience at your bar based on personality, skill, and service style. One day, a bartender didn't show up for work; I started bartending that day and have continued to work my way up the restaurant ladder into Bar Management and General Manager. My favorite thing about bartending is creating and developing beer, wine, and cocktail menus. I love to get people to try new things outside of their element. I love creating new memories with something as simple as a beverage. I truly believe a beverage can take you on a full sensory journey! As a bartender, you're the guide on this journey and can create experiences in your bar with stories and education on your products.
Why should someone come into Datz to grab a drink by you?
This actually happens all of the time especially when I was behind the bar full-time! I take the time to ask questions about what they're currently drinking and spin off of whatever classic they mention and/or try to get them to try something new. First, I see how adventurous they are and either make them something completely different or adjust a small detail of their current favorite. In this process, I'm also getting to know the guest and developing a relationship. They, in turn, will keep coming back when they're wanting to try new things and trust that I will make them something they'll enjoy!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
A great margarita should maintain balance of flavors and contain fresh ingredients. I don't believe in mixes and feel that fresh juice and fruits are key. Twists on this classic cocktail should still display prominent tequila flavors and evidence that it's still a margarita. You don’t want to mask the flavors too much.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
“Crouching Pig, Hidden Dragon”. This margarita contains the elements of the classic margarita with some twists and of course the Datz classic ingredient (pork). I'm using tequila, Cointreau, lime, dragon fruit and mango juice, grilled pineapple, agave nectar, and a splash of fresh pineapple. The glass will be rimmed with salt and cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick! My garnish will give you an added "wow"—pork belly wrapped in pineapple. Try eating pineapple with a little cayenne pepper… it’s amazing!
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
As last years champ, I will once again be bringing a culinary twist to the classic cocktail. My margarita is easy to drink and appeals to all of the senses!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I can’t wait to finally beat Justin Stoddard! Mandarin Hide is going down!
2616 S MacDill Ave., Tampa, FL 33629 813.831.7000
datztampa.com
Del Frisco's Grille:
Meet Jennifer Lind!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Del Frisco's Grille. 9 months.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Concise, speedy, very upbeat.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I began bartending 10 years ago to be able to put myself through college. Once I finished college, I realized I already had the job I truly love! Bartending is constantly changing and it's a continuous learning experience, which makes me feel like I'm becoming a better bartender everyday!
Why should someone come into Del Frisco's to grab a drink by you?
I make all my cocktails with the upmost attention to detail, and I truly enjoy the creative mixologist part of my job! I guarantee you will love your cocktail!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Lots of tequila, fresh produce, and the perfect shake!
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
"Rhubarb Razz-Rita.”
Why do you think you're going to win the title of 'Tampa Bay's Best Margarita'?
I put quite a lot of thought into what style margarita I wanted to go with, and have always believed practice makes perfect! My margarita is a perfect blend of sweet and salty, which keeps your mouth watering.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I can't wait to compete!!!
4138 W. Boy Scout Blvd, Tampa 813.878.6890
delfriscosgrille.com
EATS! American Grill
Meet Tracy Guida!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
EATS! American Grill. 5 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Classic, creative, and innovative.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
When I was 7 years old, my dad owned a restaurant and after making my first Shirley Temple, I became obsessed with kiddie cocktails. As soon as I turned 21, I began working as a cocktail waitress at a jazz club in San Jose, CA. While I was there, I studied the techniques of the bartenders and learned from watching them. Soon, I got the chance to get behind the bar and fell in love with everything about it—from creating drinks to meeting travelers from all around the world. Each day was like a new adventure and I learned so much from all of my bar guests.
Why should someone come into EATS! American Grill to grab a drink by you?
While I don't get to bartend as much anymore since I am the Bar Manager, I put nothing but love into my drinks. When I create something, I want the person to enjoy drinking it as much as I enjoyed making it!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Fresh ingredients and simplicity. Flavors should enhance the tequila, not disguise it.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
“Endless Summer”. I have to admit, I had a hard time coming up with a name and wanted to create something that relates to life in Florida. Margaritas can be enjoyed all year round, but nothing beats drinking one in our beautiful climate.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
I don't about winning since there are so many incredible bartenders, but I just want to get out there and participate in this great event with some of my favorite mixologists in Tampa Bay!
4502 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa 813.835.3287
eatsamericangrill.com
Hablo Taco:
Meet Patrick Poling!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Hablo Taco. 6 months.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Interactive, fun, creative.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I got into bartending because it's something I never thought I could do. Self-motivation and independence are two things that I developed later in life, after consistently taking myself out of my comfort zone in a wide variety of situations; one of those being the hospitality industry and, more specifically, bartending. The choice wasn't as much of what I wanted to do through college, but who I wanted to be when I was finished.
Why should someone come into Hablo Taco to grab a drink by you?
Someone should come see me at Hablo Taco for a number of different reasons! I try my best to make a mean, tasty cocktail! However, what I think separates me from the rest is that I try to make my bar a place to meet new friends, not a room full of quiet individuals. I get people talking. Not only to me, but to each other. It makes me remember why I chose the profession, and makes guests happy to be there!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
A great margarita is really any margarita that is hand-crafted using an attention to detail, great ingredients, and a beautiful garnish. If you put your heart and passion into something, THAT makes it great. The rest will follow.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
The margarita that I'm bringing to the table is called the "Salsa Margarita." I was inspired to create this tasty cocktail even before I heard about CL's Margarita Wars. Working at a Mexican restaurant that thrives off it's unparalleled Happy Hour and "Spanglish" motif, I wanted to challenge myself by making a margarita that kept the Mexican theme and heritage, yet put a whole new spin on the word "margarita." Using fresh ingredients and a little creativity, the "Salsa Margarita" has come to the stage to "wow" the crowd, and take home the crown!
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
I'm going to win the title due to my margarita's first impression. What I mean by that is when I tell people that I can make a mean "Salsa" margarita, the reactions are always priceless. Even for people who enjoy eating salsa and drinking margaritas, the combination of the two tend to make people cringe. With this initial mentality, everyone will be that much more impressed by just how harmoniously these two can come together to make "Tampa Bay's Best Margarita!"
Channelside Bay Plaza – 615 Channelside Dr. #127, Tampa 813.405.8226
hablotaco.com
The Hollander:
Meet Leah McCray!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
The Hollander. 2.5 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Intense, creative, spunky.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
When I first started bartending, I was living in Indian Rocks Beach, visiting my favorite bar, The Red Lion. The manager asked for me to help with a shift the following day. I quit my other job that week and have been bartending ever since! The ability to have creative control over the cocktails while speaking with people and learning what floats their boat when it comes to their preference of their cocktails, as well as people watching, is by far my favorite part of bartending! It's amazing what you can observe in a bar environment.
Why should someone come into The Hollander to grab a drink by you?
The Hollander is a very unique St. Pete environment with lots of history. We offer fun, creative cocktails at both the main bar and the tiki bar. Myself and the other bartenders work very hard to satisfy our customers. We handcraft all of our cocktail ingredients throughout the bar. You name it, we'll make it.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
The blending of the ingredients and level of acidity. There's a wide spectrum of fun, playful ingredients that can be used to make a great margarita!
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
"P.J.C. Margarita." It's a pineapple, jalapeño, and cilantro margarita. I use a fresh-crafted pineapple purée, muddled jalapeños, cilantro, and lime, stained and topped with sparkling wine.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Because I really enjoy what I do—making and creating fresh fun cocktails with ingredients found all around us!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I'm excited about this event and wish the best of luck to everyone.
421 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg 727.873.7900
hollanderhotel.com
Mandarin Hide
Meet Justin Stoddard!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there? The Mandarin Hide. 4 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Inventive, classic, intoxicating.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I got into bartending after college. Having several years of enjoying alcohol under my belt by that point, I had developed an appreciation and respect for the folks behind the bar. I had worked in hospitality, serving, and door staff, but didn't make it behind the bar until I secured a barback position at a little beer bar in downtown Tampa called Kelly's Pub (no longer around). Fast forward a few years and a couple of jobs later—and the Mandarin Hide invited me behind their bar. Finally, I was given an opportunity to really dig into learning about cocktail culture and spirits and to start exploring my creativity. That’s my favorite thing about it—the culture and creativity. It's a lot of fun to learn, create, and share with my customers.
Why should someone come into The Mandarin Hide to grab a drink by you?
If someone wants a drink made with care, attention to detail, and that tastes great, they should come see me.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Balance. Spirit, sour, and the right amount of sweet. Also, great tequila doesn't hurt!
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
“Media Noche", which translates to "Midnight" in Spanish. It's a bit of a sweeter, but refreshing, take on a margarita, featuring fresh cantaloupe, blackberry liqueur, cinnamon, agave, and lime. In addition to the slightly darker color of the drink, I always imagined it as a refreshing change of pace—perhaps after a day or evening drinking classic margaritas. Something you might have in the later hours to keep the party going ‘til dawn.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Because my margarita tastes really, really good.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Morgan Zuch's reign of terror is over. She and Datz are going down! Mandarin Hide forever!!!
231 Central Ave., St Petersburg 727.231.4007
mandarinhide.com
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant:
Meet Evandro Brito!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant. Since opening in May 2013.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Fresh, efficient, knowledgeable.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I started out as a busboy in an Italian restaurant and always thought the bartender had the coolest job—mixing fancy drinks and talking to people—so I worked my way up learning drinks everywhere I went. My favorite part of this job is to get to know people! It's like going out with friends and meeting new people, but I'm actually running the show.
Why should someone come into Margaritas to grab a drink by you?
Our drinks are created after much thought is put into them, combined with many years of experience on my part. Our drinks are simple and true to what they should be. We use the best spirits and always fresh ingredients. The owner of Margaritas and I make sure to constantly try new products so we can then pass them on to our guests. I take pride in being part of this whole process, and that reflects in the drinks I make.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Simplicity. A good tequila combined with fresh juices and natural sweeteners.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
"The Ultimate Margarita."—made with Grand Marnier, a perfect combination of citrus juices and agave, and topped with a special beer.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Because we stand for what a margarita is really supposed to be! Not some fancy, out-of-the-blue aspiration.
209 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa 813.251.0558
margaritasmexicanrestaurant.com
Noble Crust
Meet Tara Mutschler!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Noble Crust. Since January 2015.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Classic, handcrafted, fresh.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
Bartending always looked very interesting—from the cocktails being created to the interactions with people. It felt very natural the first time I poured a drink for a customer and I immediately fell in love with the profession.
Why should someone come into Noble Crust to grab a drink by you?
Noble Crust takes pride in using the freshest locally-grown, seasonal ingredients, so any of our drinks are truly representative of St. Pete.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
I think in this age of craft cocktails, a great margarita finds a way to add a new element (ingredient) to an classic drink. Something that hasn't been done and finds a way to surprise your palate.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
My stellar concoction is called the "Watermelon Basil Margarita."
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
We found a way to showcase the tequila element, adding a fresh twist, without taking away from the tradition of the cocktail.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
We are excited to be participating among such wonderful Tampa Bay area restaurants and are eager to share ideas and recipes with fellow bartenders that have put so much time and care in their creations.
8300 4th St. N., St Petersburg, FL 727.329.6041
noble-crust.com
Roux
Meet Mark Chiaramonte!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Roux. 1 year.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Hospitable, efficient, entertaining.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I grew up in the restaurant biz and always wanted to be a bartender. My favorite thing about bartending is being behind the stick. Being the life of the party… the best kind of party!
Why should someone come into Roux to grab a drink by you?
You should come see me at Roux because we have recreated the spirit of New Orleans here in Tampa. No bar in town can compare to the experience at Roux.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Simple and clean flavors. Its easy to get carried away with ingredients nowadays.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
"Sangre de Fuego." Translation: blood of fire. Growing up, I always referred to tequila as “fire water”. I've incorporated blood oranges into my margarita.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of 'Tampa Bay's Best Margarita'?
Because I have respect for the true history of the cocktail. My goal is not to compromise the integrity of the Margarita.
4205 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa 813.443.5255
rouxtampa.com
Salty’s Gulfport
Meet Kat McKenna!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
The beautiful, waterside Salty’s Gulfport. Since we opened, about 2.5 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Laidback, fun, dynamic.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
Growing up in New Orleans allowed me to start bartending earlier than most, and I fell in love with it right away. Your coworkers and patrons become your second family; you laugh together, you love together, sometimes you cry together. Getting to know all the people from different walks of life is enthralling. It feels good to be the person that is there with a whiskey when it's been a rough day or a glass of champagne when it's a celebration.
Why should someone come into Salty’s to grab a drink by you?
I like to make people feel at home when they come to my bar—like they've been coming there for years. I try to give people a comfortable place to relax, enjoy a beverage, and listen to some good music. Plenty of jokes and wisecracking conversations are available upon request.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
TLC. Anybody can toss some liquor and sour on ice and call it a margarita, but taking that little extra time to balance your ingredients and mix them properly can make a world of difference.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
“The Foster Child”, a bananas foster experience. It’s an intricate mix of banana, vanilla, sugar, and spices that gives you the taste of a decadent Bananas Foster in the convenience of a single serve cup. Flambè not included.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
Because I'm a winner!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Drink tequila, dance often, and never take yourself too seriously.
5413 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport 727.592.4983
saltysgulfport.com
Sea Salt:
Meet Philip Bryan!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Sea Salt St. Pete. Since opening on February 3rd.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Passionate, creative, attentive.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I got into bartending growing up in Las Vegas and working on the strip. My first bartending job was a part-time gig at a small Italian bistro. I fell in love with taking care of my regulars and being more than just a bartender. My favorite part of bartending is creating and playing with cocktails!
Why should someone come into Sea Salt to grab a drink by you?
You should come into Sea Salt to grab a cocktail because we use the freshest ingredients and put passion and thought into inspiring cocktails. Plus, our oysters and cuisine are perfectly paired with our craft cocktails!
What do you think makes a great margarita?
Fresh ingredients, balance, and originality.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
The name for our margarita is the "Diablo Smoke Margarita."—fresh-smoked, house-made sour mix, maple foam, and a peppadew shrub.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of 'Tampa Bay's Best Margarita'?
My margarita is creative, original, and unique.
183 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg 727.873.7964>
seasaltstpete.com
Sea Sea Riders
Meet Emine Tzekas!
Where do you bartend and how long have you been there?
Sea Sea Riders. 6 years.
What three words would you use to describe your style of bartending?
Fresh, creative, friendly.
How did you get into bartending? What's your favorite thing about it?
I got into bartending through my family's business. There was a necessity for new blood behind our bar and I was willing to learn. My favorite thing about it is the ability to create off-the-wall concoctions and the freedom to play with so many different mediums.
Why should someone come into Sea Sea Riders to grab a drink by you?
We have a beautiful new bar, great bartenders, and creative cocktails you won't find anywhere else around town.
What do you think makes a great margarita?
To me, the most important aspects of a great margarita are fresh, light ingredients, and simplicity.
What is the name of your competing margarita for Margarita Wars? Tell us about it!
I’m doing the “Efflorescent Margarita”—a lavender, charred cucumber, and mint margarita. With every sip, you can envision yourself in your happy place.
Why do you think you're going to win the title of “Tampa Bay's Best Margarita”?
I think I am going to win because my margarita is light, relaxing, and refreshing. The flavors blend beautifully together in a way that is reminiscent of a summer evening watching the sunset.
221 Main St., Dunedin 727.734.1445
seaseariders.net
Content provided by CL Margarita Wars. For more information about Margarita Wars and to purchase tickets, click here.
This article appears in Jul 23-29, 2015.