In this edition of Behind the Stick, Angie Marchionda shows us how to make one of our favorite cocktails from Mavericks Beach Club. Mavericks is one of Pacific Beach's newest hang out spots. Angie chats with us about her journey as a bartender and shares her thoughts on what defines a perfect cocktail.
Blackberry Smash
$10
Muddled Blackberries 1 oz Lemon Juice 1 oz Simple Syrup 2 oz Bourbon 8 mint leaves Splash of Soda Water Topped with Powdered Sugar Garnishes: Blackberry Lemon Wedge Mint Sprig What's the story behind the Blackberry Smash?
Everything on our menu was inspired by the beach lifestyle. Fresh, crisp, bright flavors, refreshing. The Blackberry Smash fully encompasses this while adding a nice spin on a traditional cocktail!
What's the key component of this drink?
A Smash is typically made with bourbon and mint, but our key component is definitely the blackberries. Adds so much brightness to the drink!
What reactions do you get from customers when they try this cocktail for the first time?
They always say how pretty it is, then they try it and love how fresh and delicious it is! Even people who don't normally prefer bourbon enjoy it!
If you had to pair this cocktail with a dish, what would you pair it with?
Our Lemon Pepper Wings!
Watch as Angie crafts up the Blackberry Smash.
What kind of experience can guests get at Mavericks Beach Club?
Everything you might want. If you want to relax, catch up with friends - we've got you! Want to play patio games in the sunshine? We've got you! You want a gorgeous view of the ocean and some fresh air? We've got you! Dance and get silly? We've definitely got you! Though our five bars are all the same, the VIBE of each bar is what sets them apart. You can bar-hop without ever leaving Mavericks. Unlike anything else!
What's unique about the cocktails here at Mavericks?
They are simple and delicious - something for every pallet. They're batched properly so we can have high-quality cocktails during high-volume times! Refreshing and perfect for every season. About Angie Marchionda
Are you from San Diego?
No, I grew up in Santa Clarita but came to SD to go to school at SDSU! I have been here for 11 years now and it's definitely home.
How has your journey been leading up to your role at Mavericks?
Awesome! Started at a small microbrewery as a hostess, then moved to server, followed by bartender then eventually become a manager. I moved on from there to work at Southpaw for 6 months then took off to work at Tavern (our other Verant location) for the last 4 years. Tavern is the place that polished me. There is always more to learn but I really discovered the beauty in the details at Tavern. They deepened my bar knowledge greatly through bar smarts, extensive whiskey, beer and craft cocktail training. Joining the Mavericks family was a natural next step - helping me strengthen my speed and efficiency even further as we are extremely high-volume much of the time, which balances me out nicely!
What's your favorite cocktail on the menu?
My favorite cocktail on the menu is the Watermelon Mule – It’s extremely refreshing and delicious. I always receive a positive reaction when I serve this drink.
Define the perfect cocktail.
In my opinion the perfect cocktail is 2:1:1 ratio of Spirit, Sugar, Citrus. To me, an Old Fashioned is perfect – simple. To the Point. And delicious.
What are some cocktail trends you are noticing in San Diego?
Gin is making a comeback, but Smashes, Margaritas, Old Fashions, Sours and Aperol Spritzers are huge right now.
What's your favorite drink to make behind the bar?
I love making Old Fashioneds.
What's your favorite spirit?
Whiskey (Jameson)/Bourbon/Rye
What do you do in your spare time when you're not creating cocktails?
SLEEP, Hot Yoga and hang with my dog, Cashi!
What's next for you?
Not sure really, I love this industry and feel that I’ve invested too much time, energy and passion into this craft to simply abandon it. Perhaps a career higher up or in a related field. Management? Liquor representative?
Mavericks Beach Club
860 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. (858) 999-0348 or maverickssd.com
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