What do you get when a magician walks behind the bar? In this episode, we’re hanging out with Chris Marek, bar lead at the Still House Bar at DoG Distilling Company in Lewis Center, to hear how he traded magic tricks for cocktail shakers.

Chris is part storyteller, part bartender, and an all-around good time. He’s helping bring Columbus’ craft cocktail scene to the suburbs while doing what he loves alongside some pretty great people.

From sleight of hand to shaking things up behind the bar, Chris has found a place where creativity, community, and a really good drink all come together.

Grab a cocktail and join us for a fun conversation with Chris.

In this episode, we sit down with Cheech Kinsway, Bar Manager at Palm Valley Cocktails who is proving that a great bar doesn't just serve cocktails, it serves its community. From hosting life-saving CPR seminars and American Sign Language nights to rallying the industry for the Campari Day of Service, Cheech is redefining hospitality in Columbus. Visit Cheech at Palm Valley Cocktails located at 6770 Riverside Drive, Dublin, OH, open every day at 4:00 pm

In this episode we sit down with Justin and Sean from Sweeney's Tavern. Located in the historic Franklinton neighborhood, this community bar boasts creative craft cocktails, classic beers (aka "Dad" beers), a record player and plenty of shenanigans. And there is Malört, lots of it; Malört shots, Malört infusions, Malört cocktails. So dig out your LPs and head to Sweeney's for a good time and Malört, if you dare.

In this episode, we speak with Ken MacKenzie, Founder of Fresh Victor cocktail mixers. Each mixer is a vibrant and tasty flavor combo that is preservative-free, non-gmo, gluten-free, vegan, kosher with organic sweeteners. Use them for a simple and delicious cocktail or mocktail, in a smoothy or, like we did, in a gelatin shot. Order today at https://shop.freshvictor.com/discount/IFTHISBAR20

using discount code IFTHISBAR20 for 20% off your entire order.

In this episode, Jared Fate with Wiseguy Lounge located inside Goodfellas Pizzeria talks about his journey in the hospitality industry. Wiseguy Lounge is a sexy bourbon centric cocktail lounge featuring expertly crafted cocktails, reasonably priced whiskey pours and amazing daily specials. Jared's number one priority is creating an experience for guests that will keep them coming back.

During our travels last month to Canada we stumbled upon a tiny rum bar in Montreal called El Pequeno Cocktail Bar. It is a Cuban themed rum bar with an engaging and welcoming bartender and an amazing cocktail menu and vibe. Jackson Long hasn’t been a bartender for very long but he’s already become a Rummelier and his skills and enthusiasm were infectious and we can’t wait to see what’s to come for him.

In this episode, we stop by Goodale Station for some delicious brunch and an amazing Spring cocktail menu.

In this episode, Theo Lentz is back on the podcast but this time they are here to announce the long-awaited opening of The Shape Shifter cocktail bar located at 129 McDowell St in Franklinton. The soft opening will be on June 8 and open to the public on June 17. The first iteration of their menu will be "Greatest Hits" from their cocktail pop-ups around town and old favorites from Mouton.

Get into Noble Cut for their great Spring cocktail menu which includes the cocktail Evil Mom, Fan Favorite at the "I'm Not "Really" A Bartender" amateur bartending competition AND proceeds from this cocktail will be donated to Service! A Relief Organization for Hospitality Workers.

In this episode Derek Reno returns to talk about another winning mentorship in the I'm Not Really A Bartender amateur bartender competition, why he changed the name of the liqueur he created and what's coming soon to Echo Spirits.