Key In The Lake Whiskey Podcast

Mel of Love Street shares her artistic approach to building cocktails in Lincoln Park’s best cocktail spot. Mel has bartended all over Chicago for more than decade and she combines her photography/fine art background to developing cocktails and engaging with customers. She’s one of the most fun bartenders to converse with from across the bar, so go pay her a visit!Guest: Mel HatchHost: Jake HukeeListen to more episodes and read stories at keyinthelake.comKey In The Lake

We take a trip to Wheaton, IL to hang at one of the best bars in Chicagoland, Subourbon. Kobe Sargent is the man behind the bar program at this historic whiskey, wine and cocktail establishment. Subourbon is membership-driven bar experience in an 150 year old building where members collect bottles, share stories and drink fantastic cocktails led by Kobe. Listen to Kobe’s story from a curious server to GM Subourbon.Guest: Kobe SargentHost: Jake Hukee Listen to more episodes and read stories at keyinthelake.com Key In The Lake

Garrett takes us through running the beverage program for one of the best restaurant groups in the Chicago suburbs, Bourbon. Belly. Recording from historic Glen Ellyn’s Maize + Mash, Garrett shakes a Check On Your Honey, a Farmer’s Gin based cocktail.  Garrett shares his industry experience, his love for whiskey and best parts of working with a cohesive bar team.Guest: Garrett TurnquistHost: Jake HukeeListen to more episodes and read stories at keyinthelake.comKey In The Lake

Back to The Press Room but this time we chat with Managing Partner Josue Mancero. Josue is one the friendliest bartenders in Chicago and he gets right into shaking the Pineapple & Bark (rum sour riff). Josue shares his 20 years in hospitality—14 years behind the bar—and how his experience as a chef influences his cocktail menus. We also chat about Josue’s favorite Chicago food spots and how the hospitality industry is built different because of the city’s multi-cultural influence.Guest: Josue ManceroHost: Jake HukeeListen to more episodes and read stories at keyinthelake.comKey In The Lake

We head to one of my favorite Chicago cocktail spots, The Press Room to hang with Jorge Vallejo, Beverage Director/Managing Partner. Jorge shares his journey of moving from Ecuador to New York—where he began his hospitality career. After a decade in New York, Jorge moved to Chicago and he’s now recognized as one of the city’s best bartenders.Guest: Jorge VallejoHost: Jake HukeeListen to more episodes and read stories at keyinthelake.comKey In The Lake