Mixology classes can help visitors shake up their evenings while in South Florida

Posted November 10, 2016

By TAYLORANN MILLER

Shake things up while you’re in Miami!

Flashback to the classic 1998 film, “Cocktail” to a young, charming Tom Cruise mixing, shaking, twirling up fancy cocktails. This film gave us all a different view on bartending and made it that more interesting. South Florida may not have Tom Cruise, but you can get that personal experience at some of the area’s trendiest bars.

cocktails

Cocktails and Dreams Neon light bar sign from the film “Cocktail,” directed by Roger Donaldson.

Don’t worry about boredom, instead worry about having too many choices to choose. From the beach to partying, you name it; it’s here. You can do the usual South Beach clubs or dare to have an exclusive experience.

Let me make this choice simpler for you. Do you like going out and not having to pay for drinks, or food and perhaps even leave with a gift? Would you like to know how to have a night like that? Would you like to know the secrets from top bartenders to make tasty cocktails for you and your friends?

If you said yes, you’re in luck.

Mixology classes are gaining more popularity, mixing up the bar scene here in Miami. Mixology classes teach us the art and craft behind making your favorite cocktails. You get the taste of laid-back fun and out-of-the-box libations in Miami. Start your night out on the town Miami style.

Keep in mind the classes mentioned in this article are not limited to only these locations. (Groupon is a recommended site to start your search.) Menin Hospitality, located in the heart of Miami Beach is a great start to your search. Menin Hospitality operates restaurant brands, manages and develops hotel operations, and partners with chefs and entrepreneurs to help develop their brands.

“Since the beginning, elevating the guest experience has been our true mission at Menin Hospitality.” Keith Menin, principal of Menin Hospitality, stated on their website. Under Menin Hospitality is a bar known for its innovative cocktails and a relaxed south beach ambiance, called Radio Bar. Its team of bartenders gives the ultimate experience with free mixology classes at the end of every month.

If you want more than a laid back environment, head on over to another restaurant of Menin called Bodega, which is one of the trendiest spots in South Beach right now. Imagine stepping through a porta-potty, and on the other end entering a Mexican-style bar.

This class happens at the end of every month before the fiesta of the night begins. From the explosive flavors and creative combinations, you and your guests will have an unforgettable evening at either location.

Teddy Collins, the head bartender wanted his clients to have a wide approach.

“I wanted to offer something for everybody to take part in the whole movement, the whole cocktail scene,” Collins stated.

“Step on up mixologists!” I heard as I entered Radio Bar.

About 12 of us walked on up to the bar, and in front of each of us was a station set up with everything we needed to become a bartender for these next 90 minutes. Tune in with Teddy and Friends had begun, as welcome drinks were handed out.

This class was hosted by Teddy Collins, featuring Milagro tequila and Bacardi rum. Before the class even started Collins was cracking jokes and took the time to know each of us. The atmosphere was full of great tunes and laughter as we began to interact with each other. Food was being served and alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. The station in front of us were set up with Bacardi gold drinking glasses, a Bacardi drink shaker, a Bacardi muddler and more Bacardi to craft the classic skinny margarita and mojito.

A Bacardi representative was brought out and gave us a little history lesson behind the alcohol and the drinks we were about to make. Then once she finished, Collins began the hands-on mixing demonstration. From learning the approximate amount to pour to the shake like an actual bartender, we were all able to create the yummiest drinks all by ourselves.

Mae Welles, a mixology student, enjoyed her experience.

 “Coming to Radio Bar for delicious drinks is one thing, but being able to learn the tricks and create your own is so much fun. I never expected I’d be able to make this or end up behind a bar while visiting Miami!” she stated.

After the class, those who attended didn’t leave empty-handed. What great party ever ended without a goodie bag, am I right? After having two free drinks and some taste testers, yum, we all walked away with the Bacardi tools we used, a card with the ingredients, and Bacardi beat headphones.

I had a great time, not only because I was with my friend and got free drinks, but I also got to meet others, got to know the bartender better and got a behind-the-scenes bar experience.

I’ll admit during those 90 minutes, Collins made me feel like a bartending pro and had me reconsidering my career path. I felt like Tom Cruise crafting up “Cocktails and Dreams.” What a way to start the night out. Now I can always make myself and my friends these drinks, Bacardi style.

The classes are free with RSVP if you contact through online or by phone. Otherwise, you are welcomed to walk-in and pay $5. It is limited to 20 people, keeping the event personal.

Classes usually take place the last week of each month from 7-8 p.m. which enables the class to avoid large crowds. It’s the perfect time and space to go to before going out to other bars or clubs in South Beach. Details about the next upcoming class, including date/time, featured liquor and surprise guest will be released early on Radio Bar events or Bodega events.

 Become a mixologist, mingle, dance and enjoy the premium open bar. The remainder of the night attendees can enjoy the premium open bar and snack on light appetizers and party throughout the night.

MENU:

  • Chicken meatballs
  • Hamachi crispy rice
  • Rock shrimp tempura

DRINKS:

  • Radio Bar Signature Cocktails.
  • Pimmavera – Pimms No. 1, Bombay Gin, muddled cucumber, orange mint, blueberry, citrus, Lustau Sherry float.
  • Peychaud Pickin’ Peaches – peach tea infused Old Forester Bourbon, honey, Peychauds Bitters, Absinthe rinse.
  • Top Shelf Liquors: Grey Goose Vodka, Bombay Sapphire, Zacapa 23 Yrs., Don Julio Blanco, Basil Hayden, Johnny Walker Black Label, Jameson, Absolut, Beefeater, Flor de Cana 4 Yrs., Altos Tequila, Heaven Hill, Chivas 12 Yr.
  • Beer: Stella Artois, Yuengling, Brooklyn IPA, Miller Lite, Heineken, Corona, Pabst Blue Ribbon.
  • Wine: Coastal Vines pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, chardonnay, Piper Sparkling Wine.
  • Nonalcoholic drinks.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Radio Bar

Bodega

Schedule

  • Once a month, subject to change.
  • If you would like a private class, call the bar.