Carlos Ballon Bartender of the Month

Carlos Ballon could be called a bar chef instead of a bartender or mixologist.  His love of food and inspiration from the kitchen can be seen and tasted throughout his cocktails.  In college, he started out serving beer and was always interested in getting behind the bar.  His fascination with the bar partnered with his love of the culinary arts makes him stand out among the rest.

Mockingbird Bistro is the perfect place for Carlos to marry his two loves and create a unique experience for each diner.  His signature cocktail, the Arugula Gimlet, has a leafy ingredient rarely found in drinks but loved for its bold flavor.  His inspiration comes from the kitchen because he loves to use fresh herbs, produce and fruit.  Carlos combines Bluecoat Gin, fresh arugula, lemoncello and lemon juice for a bright flavor that is sure to wake your taste buds and have them wanting another sip.

Carlos Up Close  

Favorite cocktail:  Corpse Reviver – Citadelle Gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, Lemon and Pernod Absinthe

Favorite bartending tool:  Channel Knife

If you could be a superhero, which one would you be?  Batman – regular by day, superhero in the night

Last meal:  Freshly made Barbacoa Tacos from the taco truck washed down with a Corpse Reviver cocktail

Proudest accomplishment:  Putting together an innovative and successful cocktail program at Mockingbird Bistro

Little known fact:  Not many people know that he also works on the kitchen line at Mockinbird Bistro helping cook

Favorite Movie:  Singing In The Rain

Favorite Song:  “The One Who Loves You The Most” – Brad Denim

If you could be an animal, what would you be?  ”A Bar Fly so I could just hover around enjoying everyone else’s good time and cocktails”

Wants to visit:  Ethiopia – to see the Blue Nile River

Pet Peeve:  People adding salt to their dish before even tasting it

Hangover Cure:  Southern Star Blonde Bombshell beer