06/20/2026
Employee highlight time!
The best of the best, Jaime ✨
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Q: What got you interested in cocktails/bartending?
A: I fell into it, but it turned out I have a knack for it. I worked at a restaurant in San Diego that was doing really cool things I'd never seen before, and my love for craft cocktails was born
Q: Brief backstory to your service industry life...
A: I started at 20 years old in fine dining and did that for 12 years. I was so lucky to have such a solid culinary and service foundation. I lived in St Thomas for 5 years, where I got really fast bc it's so busy all the time. San Diego brought my interest in craft cocktails. River Room gave me the freedom and support to CREATE in a way I never had. Now, with Matt and Chef Connor, I'm learning from people with palettes I've never been exposed to before and it's really cool, if not a little intimidating.
Q: Where do you draw inspiration from when creating new cocktails?
A: I love looking at the shelf and letting my mind wander. I also try to continue learning so sometimes I'll read or watch something that kind of blows my mind, and that'll spark something. My husband is also a bartender, and I'm so thankful to be able to bounce ideas off of him.
Q: What aspect of bartending do you feel has kept you doing this for so long?
A: The guests. I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to learn and grow through conversations with random strangers. I know we make our money when it's busier, but the times it's slow enough that I can really connect with people is the most enriching part of this job for me. Making them a drink they love is just the cherry on top!
Q: What is your favorite spirit you like to build drinks from?
A: Lately it's been a lot of gin. Rum has also surprised me. I've decided I need to learn more about split bace cocktails, so that's my next focus.
Q: What is one thing you wish people know more about cocktails?
A: Start thinking about cocktails like you think about food. You don't have to love every ingredient to love the drink. Flavor pairings will surprise you!
