Tell us about your inspiration behind the cocktail.

The Hummer originated in Detroit by local bartender Jerome Adams, who invented the drink in 1968. Mr. Adams bartended at the club for more than 50 years, making countless Hummers in his time there. His clientele (a bunch of sailors) would travel the world asking bartenders to make this drink. Soon enough Jerome was getting calls from California, Florida, and even France, all asking for the magic formula. My riff on this Detroit classic includes a locally blended Jamaican rum, strawberries from my neighborhood farm, vanilla ice cream, Jägermeister, and Jägermeister Cold Brew. Detroit is a city with a strong sense of community, talent, and rich history that I wanted to highlight by utilizing local ingredients and paying homage to the trailblazers who came before me.

What does hospitality mean to you?

It means humbling yourself for the greater good of everyone else. People first want to feel comfortable before they can fully commit to having a good time or caring about what you bring to the table. It doesn't always have to be a grandiose gesture, but people will match the energy you give them. It’s as simple as listening to the guest in front of you, putting your ego aside, and asking the right questions to foster a relationship where they trust you enough to keep coming back.

Grab Your Tools, and Let's Make It Together!