When it comes to bars in the US, I think we’re doing a disservice just culturally throwing up our hands saying “what can we do.” We’re in danger of losing a lot of creativity in our culture, and my case for that point is this interview with Alba Huerta, owner of Julep in Houston, Tx. Not only is the press she’s received over the years a case -- for instance, she was named Bartender of the Year in 2014 by Imbibe magazine -- her creativity, intelligence, can-do attitude, and focus on building a successful business are rarely matched. I hope this chat with Alba will help you empathize a little more with the current plight of businesses like hers. This is a lifelong career for her, one in which she consistently invests her talent, and she’s created a wonderful culinary experience at Julep blending hospitality and good spirits.