First, I would like to thank everyone involved with making this blog a reality! It still baffles me to think someone is taking the time to read what I am blabbing about.
When I was approached by the wonderful people at Uptown Network, I wanted to contribute to this amazing tool that educates, trains, and informs media on trending thoughts and views that I feel impact all of us in the hospitality community.
Let me introduce myself. I’m Justin S. Newman, Head Mixologist for the acclaimed Bull and Bear restaurant in Orlando, Head Mixologist for the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, and now, Lead Mixologist for Uptown Network. I am a martial artist, musician, and husband to my beautiful wife, Lauren. My dog, Swiffer, loves me, and my friends and family still come over for drinks when I ask nicely.
Orlando has been my home for over twenty years, and home of my twenty-three year career in the hospitality industry. Throughout the years, I have watched and been a part of the growth here in Central Florida, and all of Florida for that matter. Hospitality expansion in this community has always been a way of life. Creatively, we have made Central Florida a destination location to the world!
Food and Beverage has played a crucial role in my life. I have always enjoyed creating memorable experiences for my guests. It’s that passion that has led me to become who I am today. I am one of the lucky ones. I go to work early and I stay a little later because I’m not just there to punch a clock–I am there loving what I do every single day. Bringing together unique ingredients with a passion to elevate the guest experience is a joy, and one which has elevated my career.
I have always believed in delivering the guest a superior product, whether it’s giving fresh new looks to my cocktails, or delivering the most amazing spirit-free selection of drinks, highlighting new distilleries, or educating differences of beer styles to pair for dinner. I want to WOW everyone with the best, showcasing new brands and new techniques, and never forgetting to emphasize on quality and integrity with everything I put my stamp on. I have been blessed with those around me being very receptive to the way that I am handling and approaching the ways I choose to create new cocktails.
My dream is to be a part of this amazing renaissance we in the cocktail industry are experiencing. I want to be a part of the growth and expansion that is moving the industry in leaps and bounds. I want to be a model to all the new faces in this journey, and be there to mentor and lead their successes.
I am looking forward to sharing my thoughts and ideas with all of you in this wonderful community of hospitality professionals. Thank all of you, for this wonderful opportunity. I look forward to the future with you, and remember, “It’s a zoo out there, don’t drink like an animal!”
Until next time, here’s to you!
Justin
About Justin Newman
Justin S. Newman is the award-winning Head Mixologist for the acclaimed Bull and Bear restaurant and Head Mixologist for the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Florida.
