February is Black History Month, and Bar & Restaurant is pleased to support the work of Brown & Balanced in highlighting incredibly talented bartenders around the country. Brown & Balanced is an organization that celebrates Black bar and hospitality professionals through events and virtual discussions. Founder Josh Davis has chosen 28 bartenders to recognize across 28 days, and we’re re-publishing an abridged version of them here.
Bar & Restaurant will be updating this list weekly throughout February. Head to Brown & Balanced’s Instagram page for more information about each one of these amazing bartenders.
Brands, take note - these are the movers and shakers you need to know in the industry!
Week 4
Kelvin Williams
The saying goes, "Bacon makes everything better" and Day 25 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series takes us to DC, by way of Miami, to meet Kelvin Williams, aka Bacon, @chancebacon. We first met Kelvin at Camp Runamok in 2018, and he stayed on the radar since then. Outgoing, fashionable, and a very talented bartender. We caught his final round in the @Chocolate.citys.best competition and he definitely placed himself as a star on the rise. So looking forward to 2022 where he will be expanding his personal brand into health and wellness, low and no-ABV drinks, and massage therapy. Kelvin is showing himself to be a man of many talents!
"I take the business of being a Black bartender seriously. It's my job to break the stereotypes associated with bartenders and to educate and inspire. Being a Black bartender means I have to recreate our narrative."
Emma Alexander
Day 24 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series, is a true OG in the industry, a mover and shaker, and taste-maker, @whoisemmafantastic from Denver, Co. Emma is the Beverage Director for Bonanno Concepts Restaurant Group, CEO for EHA Consultants and Co-President of Women Who Whiskey Colorado Chapter, and has over 25 years of experience in the hospitality. Denver has a team out there, and Emma is definitely at the forefront of the movement! We can't wait to finally get a Brown And Balanced event in happening out there!
Tamara King
Day 23 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series, we going back to the Souf, to the A, to meet @justsipcocktails of Atlanta, GA. Atlanta has been a hub of talent for many years, and Tamara has been on the grind and cementing herself as a force in the A. Another mobile bartender, with a service that goes straight to the people, we have seen her biz grow over the years, and truly become a household name. If you are in and around ATL, and are having any type of events, this is the brand you should be reaching out too!
"To think of how some bartenders before me chose this profession to buy their way to freedom. It makes me appreciate that I have the freedom of choice and the opportunity to create while doing something I enjoy and get paid for it at the same time. "
Jordan Grant
Day 22 of the #28BlackBartenders you need to know series is New York native, New Jersey resident, @pour_anotha_brotha. Mobile bartenders are so very important to our culture. And especially for a 'lot of Black Bartenders, mobile bartending is a foot in the door, and a way to show their creativity, work ethic, and management skills, and in turn for some that have the interest can get them hired at bars. Brown and Balanced evolved from @MrMixologist creating his mobile bartending service back in 2007. Jordan is no different. Hella talented, and has some excellent content that he does at live events and virtually. We have watched his moves closely and definitely will get him involved in more Brown and Balanced events in the future!
"Being a Black Bartender to me is all about representation and culture. It's about telling stories and representing who I am and who we are as a people through the language and creativity of crafting cocktails. Most importantly it's about bringing joy and positive vibes to our people, and I hope that I convey that with every one of my cocktails."
Week 3
Janelle Carpenter
Day 21 (these days are going by way to fast) of the #28BlackBartenders you need to know series, has our last North Carolina entry, but she is originally from my hood (Southside of the Chi), to introduce y'all to @nellymixalot. As stated, Janelle is originally from Chicago, but currently reside in Greensboro, NC. She is currently a bartender at Kau which is North Carolina's first all encompassing Restaurant, Butcher & Bar. She is also Owner of "Janelle's Cocktails" providing cocktail catering for any special occasion. A rising star, and a very creative bartender. If you are in NC, or CHI she has you covered.
Justin Hazelton
Day 20 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know, takes us back to NC for the 3rd time this month (all legends in the making) to meet the homie @JustinDrinks, the man who runs @Leah_and_Louise ! Justin is another young OG in the game, and is probably one of the most sought after bartenders in the industry. (We gonna figure out a way to get him on @BrownAndBalanced soon) Charlotte has SO much talent, and this is the man leading the charge! We can't wait to see what new projects Justin has coming up, and looking forward to the next time we visit Charlotte and pulling up to Leah and Louise for some cocktails and the best soul food in the city!!
"Being a Black bartender means I’m a dope position to connect and unapologetically express myself through drinks and conversation across the bar. I am a Black man and I love what I do, hopefully I can inspire more Black faces to hop behind the bar. "
Kyisha Davenport
Day 19 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know takes us to Boston, Ma to meet the Candy Girl herself (if you know me and you know Boston, you know why she's that) @BarnoirBoston. Kyisha is a true innovator, a business owner, a BOSS. She first hit our radar during 2020 as she was always visible during our quarantine happy hours, ended up being on Season 2 of Brown And Balanced LIVE, and I am happy to announce that she will be behind the bar at @bartendersweekend for the @BrownAndBalanced Pool party!!!
"My middle school had a motto: "To whom much is given, much is required." I'm always blessed because I am Black and I have this opportunity, in this industry, to have a new experience. And to pass that experience on."
Björn Taylor
Day 18 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know, takes us to Austin, Tx to meet @kingbjornce, aka Robert Björn Taylor. This brotha has made his mark all over Texas (with some ties to Chicago, so you know its always love), and is way more than just a bartender, he is a creative. Black Creatives are essential to our industry, and just life in general. Love the work he is doing with non-alcoholic /zero proof cocktails, and we are anxiously awaiting the handbook to those he is creating. Definitely has been a star, and can't wait to be able to chop it up with him in the very bear future.
"I can sum up what it means to be a black bartender or a (POC) in three words. Legacy, creativity, and inclusivity. We brought people into our culture and communities. All while providing and elevating all styles of service. We are not just laborers but the creative hands that shaped the cocktail and fine cuisine culture. Paving the way for modern food and beverage programs to thrive. I’m proud to be a part of that legacy of hospitality! I’m doing my part to help in the continued growth and evolution of our hospitality community!"
Jay Pink
We're back in Florida to meet @drynks_with_Mr.Pink. Jay is killin' it behind the bar at @sweetlibertyMia, one of our favorite spots in the sunshine state (need to get back sooner than later). Jay was also one of the competitors in the #PowerofthePalate competition this past year and represented himself and Fl very well! When you in MIA, this is who you need to reach out too for cocktails!! Cant wait to see whats in store for Jay in 2022 and beyond!
Leilani Reed-Logan
Day 16 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series takes us to South Florida to meet, @twist.mix.sip, Leilani Reed-Logan. Now before meeting her, we had no idea where Boynton, FL. was, but a trip is coming soon. Lelani is one of the premier events and mobile bartender in the state, from hands-on mixology classes, to full scale event cocktail planning, you are in good hands!
"I am honored to be a part of this community. For me, it has been mostly about the love, camaraderie and education I’ve received as well as continuing to find ways to support some pretty cool people doing amazing things in this space! Representation does matter. Over the years, I’ve noticed very few Black bartenders in craft cocktail bars. I’ve also noticed that craft cocktails aren’t often present at black events and could never understand why. That seems to be shifting and I love it! I’m a neophyte in the professional cocktail and spirits industry space, after semi-retiring from a pretty successful corporate career as a Human Resources Leader two years ago. I now own a cocktail experience company which offers virtual and in person cocktail classes, mainly focused on introducing our folks to craft cocktails and new spirits - not just the spirits we’ve been conditioned to imbibe. I love to watch us discover new flavors and realize that our palates might actually appreciate them. That makes me happy"
Tamu Curtis
We're back in NC again to meet meet @tamucurtis of Charlotte, NC. (Don't know if y'all have noticed, but Charlotte is a HUB of talented Black Bartenders. There are still 2 more coming in the 28). Tamu is the Owner and proprietor of @thecocktailery, a cocktail supply and beverage lifestyle shop designed for the craft cocktail enthusiast. They carry an assortment of quality bar ware and accessories that blend functionality and presentation. The products and cocktail classes are designed to enhance your ability to create cocktails that are simple, sophisticated and memorable. We were able to have Tamu on Season 2 of #BrownAndBalanced live directly from the shop, and we cant wait to take a trip down to spend some money in there!! "For me it's important to change the narrative of what people expect bartenders to look like. I feel incredible proud anytime I have opportunity to make an impact on someone and change their perception simply by being me."
Solomon Thomas
We're in the City of Brotherly Love to meet our brother, and a #BrownAndBalanced Alumni member, @solomonkthomas of Philadelphia. Sol is one of the young OGs, probably one of the smartest bartenders in the industry (when you get a chance, ask him where and who he went to school with), multiple competition winner (most recently @blackrestarauntweek @MakersMark competition where he repped Philly), and to this day the only person to make a cocktail on Brown and Balanced LIVE. "Being a black bartender is an honor for me. I get to channel the creativity of my culture into what I do, mold it and develop bespoke experiences. I love developing interactions with food and beverage which is an integral aspect to the lives of all people regardless of their heritage. With grandparents that have been in this country since 1898, my African-American blood goes way back, I am the living counterpart of a rich legacy that I am fortunate enough to be able to draw on. In my work I am grateful to contribute to the awareness of what black hospitality professionals can provide for their communities. We are, among many other things, leaders, innovators, trendsetters and mentors. Therefore, our actions and voices are integral to the perspective/paradigm shift of our society as a whole."
Week 2
Everett Clark
We're going back to North Carolina to meet Everett Clark (@evsbevsmixology) of Charlotte, NC. Charlotte is a hub of dope, talented, creative, BLACK Bartenders. We have said that Charlotte reminds us of a 2010 Atlanta where some legends were coming together and making their presence felt. Everett is on the way to being that legend. When the pandemic started, we were able to meet and connect with Ev in Charlotte, and subsequently saw all the moves he made since. Pop-ups, cocktail kits, events, Ev has you covered! "Being a Black bartender means taking accountability for sustaining the culture of my lineage through my craft and being the representation I would look up to in the community."
Henry Ottrix
Day 12 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series takes us to the Rocky Mountain region, and Henry Ottrix (@heny_ottrix11) of Denver, Co. Denver has a special place in our hearts, as one of the OG #BrownAndBalanced PDXCW bartenders is from that city. We may be working on something dope coming to Denver, and with that Henry is definitely someone we have been watching and want to connect with when we hit the land. He has his own private bar service, @traveling_spirits_bartenders, with his friend and biz partner @spacedouteric, and from what we heard, they are running the town! Can't wait to get out there and rock with them brothers! "Being a Black bartender means a lot considering you don't see too many of us in the craft cocktail scene. I'm hoping that's going to change considering the many different initiatives brands are taking to entice Black hospitality individuals."
Khalid Williams
Meet the supremely funny Khalid Williams (@thebarrelage) of Bristol, CT. Its fitting that in the home state of the WWE, the bartending version of a true entertainer resides. Khalid's business is The Barrel Age under which he contracts work for multiple bars, private individuals and brands. "Being a Black bartender means that I have the responsibility of normalizing true diversity in the drinks space, and the luxury of being an heir to the entire culture: American exports are by and large created by black folks: jazz, rock and roll, dance, slang. The world talks like my people. I have the duty to confront the dark past of servitude and the opportunity to decide to provide service with style, soul and kindness. Being “at your service” means I am an ambassador to a world of secret pleasures in the form of drink and food. There’s power in that and I’m humbled and blessed to use it wisely."
Andre Sykes
We're going to Detroit, Mi to introduce y'all to Andre Sykes (@DaCocktailPoet). Andre was born, raised, and currently resides in Detroit, MI. He is the Bar Director and Principal Bartender for Willow which will be opening up in Downtown Detroit (the D!) in the next few months. It's going to be the first Black-owned and operated craft cocktail bar in the state! Can't wait to take another road trip, to the D and get to meet Andre in person. "Being a Black bartender to me means being a warrior behind any sticks. We get overlooked, are underrepresented, often touted as a token, yet we remain to take up as much space as we can. Every shift is a battle in some way and every bar is a new battlefield where we have to prove that our moxie is more than enough to belong."
Jermey Elliott
Day 9 of our #28Blackbartenders you NEED to know series takes us to Texas, to meet @jermeygelliott , Jermey Elliott of Dallas, Texas. Texas will always be a special place for Brown And Balanced, as we hosted the first ever B&B in Dallas on August 2nd, 2017. So, sometimes to know where you are going, you gotta go back to your roots. Jermey is one of the most talented, and passionate professionals in the game. He has been holding it down at Tiny Victories in Oak Cliff, and has something really big coming for 2022 (the saying is everything is bigger in Texas!). "Being a Black bartender means a big sense of pride. Seeing all the wonderful things other Black bartenders and industry professionals are doing nationally and internationally is really inspiring. We're sailing our own ship. It makes my heart full. Still got lots of work to do."
Greg Fleming
Day 8 of the #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series is back in Chocolate City. Meet Greg Fleming (@mr_plantender) of Washington DC. Greg is one of the bartenders at Serenata, and a VERY talented mixologist. Stye and Swagger, his round in the @chocolate.citys.best competition was one of the most entertaining competition moments we have seen! Young fella is gonna be a problem in his industry for a long time. We can't wait to see what Greg is up to next (actually we have something planned for him at the end of the month, but some more details on that soon). "Being a bartender of color for me mainly means representation. Entering those competitions and going on the different bartender retreats! It shows we ware here as a people and it feels good to be one of the ones leading the way for the future bartenders of color!"
Week 1
Loretha Kirk
Rounding out the first week of Brown & Balanced #28BlackBartenders you NEED to know series, is Loretha Kirk of Moore, Oklahoma. Being a newcomer on the scene, she still is a very formidable bartender. One that we predict will carry the torch for Black Women Bartenders for some time to come! Hungry, motivated, and willing to learn everything she can, she was one of the finalist in the @chocolate.citys.best competition. We imagine we will see Loretha in competitions, and winning them, in the future! What to expect from Loretha in 2022: "I’m bettering myself all 2022. I’ll be increasing my social media presence. I’m studying to prepare for the Certified Cicerone exam. I’ll be attending a Dispense Training Program. I’m entering any competition that will have me so I can continually better myself and my skills. But, my bucket list goal is to be invited to guest bartend out of state. We’re just going to keep speaking that one into existence."
Chrissy Sheffey
One word to describe Chrissy is DOPE. She is the true definition of Black Girl Magic. Her brand, @CharismaticCreations is a lifestyle consulting and precision management agency that focuses on creative hospitality, event planning, staffing, market branding, and innovative beverage programs within the food and beverage industry. What to expect from Chrissy in 2022: "Activating more spaces and curating experiences where my brand, Charismatic Creations comes to life.”
Jeisdeh Clinton
Jesideh Clinton of New Jersey is the owner of Precious Bartending LLC. She is a fixture on the scene in the Tri-state area, and this past year was one of the finalists in the @chocolate.citys.best cocktail competition. Jesideh is undeniably one of the most talented bartenders in the country! What to expect from Jesideh in 2022: “From a professional standpoint, I will be looking at hosting Precious Bartending’s third annual Cultivating Cocktail’s Cocktail Class and continuously growing as a household name throughout the Tri-state area. I want to continue to grow my network in the bar community countrywide. From a personal standpoint, I’m going to be traveling as much as I can with my husband and our Duck (that’s what we call our son) and continuing to strive for whatever the future may have for me.”
Sekani Akunyun
We had the pleasure of visiting Sekani Akunyun of Charlotte, NC at @leah_and_Louise in 2021, and we weren't disappointed one bit. Pop ups, events, consultations, Sekani has you covered! What to expect from Sekani in 2022: "More drinks (of course), travel, menu placements and more learning are some bar goals for 2022!! I have the biggest cheerleader at home rooting for me to succeed and, that is a major push!"
Champagne Braswell
Let’s head to the Midwest to meet the super talented and bubbly (see what we did there) Champagne Braswell of Columbus, Ohio. Champagne is one of the most entertaining bartenders on the scene. Her personality is infectious, and if you follow her on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok she really pours herself into cocktails and bridges the gap of entertainment and education. Champagne was also one of the finalists in the Black Restaurant Week #PowerOfThePalate competition in Ohio. What to expect from Champagne in 2022: "I definitely will be growing my business and my brand by working harder and refining my craft. I want to do more events, collaborations, and more videos to inform and entertain! I feel like I was put on this Earth to serve and serve I shall do!"
Ramona Jackson
Ramona Jackson, aka @thebourbonbohemian, first came onto our radar during our Brown & Balanced Instagram Happy Hours in 2020. She was always in the comments and sharing her story. We were completely blown away at her creativity, flavor pairings, and her garnish game was FIRE! Now she doesn't consider herself a bartender because she is a "Home Bartender”, but her company, cocktail kits, and overall talent isn't one to be ignored because she is doing it the unconventional route. She is a great example for other home and mobile bartenders to keep their game raised to the max! What to expect from Ramona in 2022: "More experiments in marrying international cuisine and cocktails. More cocktail kit subscribers. And bigger experiences to showcase my unconventional cocktails and stories."
J’Nai Williams
There’s no better way to kick off Black History Month than with J’Nai Williams of New Orleans! She has been a Brown & Balanced bartender at 2018 Portland Cocktail Week, and has taken her experience from behind the bar, to behind the camera! Make sure you are following her content on TikTok, and her virtual cocktail classes through her company @prettymagiccocktails. What to expect from J’Nai in 2022: “’I'm focused on creating new opportunities for myself and others, but I’m not giving away the sauce just yet! Stay tuned!"
Descriptions have been edited and abridged for clarity and context. To see full posts, please visit Brown & Balanced Instagram. Bar & Restaurant is dedicated to supporting the diverse talents of the hospitality industry, during Black History Month and beyond. If you have an incredible bartender, chef or F&B pro that deserves recognition, email our editor Sarah at [email protected].
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