Adam Beech of Toro Toro at InterContinental Miami is a natural behind the bar, totally relaxed and at ease. He’s almost as smooth as the drinks he serves up. Born and raised in Miami, he says his passion for cooking inspired him to become a bartender. “It’s pretty much the same concept — except when I’m behind the bar I get to talk to people while I create.” And that constantly evolving creativity is what keeps him going day in and day out. “My motivation lies in keeping my eyes on the future while enjoying the present,” he says. As such, his most memorable moments are when he can make such a strong impact on someone that they remember him years later. “Nothing beats the feeling of making a cocktail for someone and on the first sip they just close their eyes and smile,” he says. “That’s the type of reaction that makes all the hard work worth it!” His favorite interaction with his patrons is when he can change in a single cocktail what someone thinks they don’t like. “A lazy bartender makes you a vodka-soda, a good bartender digs deeper to find a cocktail that will make your night one to remember.”
Mendoza’s Lullaby
1 oz Cardenal
Mendoza Brandy
.5 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
.25 oz Triibe Celtic Liqueur
1 oz Charcoal-Activated Lemonade
2 Black Cherries
1 Lemon Wedge
.5 oz Simple Syrup
1 Egg White
