July 29, 2025

Maria Rodriguez (Head Bartender, Cantina Rosa--Chicago) on Mixologists versus Bartenders, What Makes a Great Drink, & Military-Restaurant Industry Parallels

51 minutes

For the first time, we welcome a bartender to the pod: Maria Rodriguez of Cantina Rosa in Chicago, Illinois. The bar is part of friend of the pod Erick Williams' restaurant group, and is focused on Mexican spirits, especially agave-based ones such as mezcal and tequila. In this conversation, recorded on site at Cantina Rosa, Maria shares her path to her career and she and Andrew observe the similarities between a chef's journey and that of a bartender. They also discuss the essential components of a great cocktail and great beverage programs.

Huge thanks to Andrew Talks to Chefs’ presenting sponsor, meez, the recipe operating software for culinary professionals. Meez powers the Andrew Talks to Chefs podcast as part of the meez Network, featuring a breadth of food and beverage podcasts and newsletters.

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