Interview with Saeed House @Cocktailsbyhawk

DESCRIBE YOUR DRINK-MAKING STYLE. 

My drink-making style is what I like to call "mixology in a minute." As much as I appreciate mixology, I also am very adamant about being at the party and not missing memorable moments by being in the kitchen or at the bar making overly complicated drinks. I like to create drinks that are delicious but not too time-consuming to make. After all, who wants to miss out on that "Remember that one time when…" story.

WHAT'S YOUR ADVICE FOR PEOPLE JUST STARTING TO LEARN HOW TO MAKE DRINK ON THEIR OWN? 

My top tip is to never stop experimenting. The more you experiment, the better you will understand what works and what doesn't work. Yes, you could read books and recipes, but I feel that learning hands-on and diving in headfirst will always be better in the end. Trial and error is the best way to learn and perfect recipes. 

What's some of the 'insider-baseball' stuff that people don't know about bar tending and the lifestyle?

Some stuff that people don't know about bartending is that its not always about making great cocktails. It's all about giving excellent service to your customers to ensure that they come back for another. Building bar regulars and connecting with your guests should be your priority before making bomb drinks.

What are your thoughts on Gin and anything you'd like people to know about the history of the Eastside?

I love Gin. I also love how unique it can be by adding different types of botanicals to the distillation process. And the crazy thing is that no two gins will ever taste the same. There's a reason the Eastside is a timeless classic. It's just so damn good and refreshing that nothing can come close to beating it.