5 questions for Owen Thomson, Lead Bartender for Jose Andres’ Think Food Group, Washington, DC

We know Owen Thomson has a big appetite for creative drinks and delicious food. We’ve broken bread with him at New Orleans locals’ favorite restaurant Elizabeth (www.elizabeths-restaurant.com); the man can order!

Plus, during Tales (www.talesofthecocktail.com) he sat on the SavourEase panel with Mixtress Gina Chersevani and Chef Peter Smith of PS7s (www.ps7restaurant.com).

With all this under his belt it is no wonder he’s running the beverage program for celebrated chef Jose Andres.

And has this to say about the industry…

Q1. How many years have you been coming to Tales of the Cocktail?
A. Five

Q2. Do you wear an armband behind the bar?
A. Uh… NO…

Q3. As a veteran in the industry, what advice do you have for someone who is just starting out in the business?
A. Keep and open mind, and don’t ever think that you know everything.

Q4. Sponsorships aside, what’s your Go-To spirit right now?
A. Bourbon and Rye. Although, I drink everything…

Q5. Cubed or Crushed Ice?
A. Summer? Crushed. Other times of the year, Big Fat Cubes…

Agreed! Enjoy Tales…