Craft and Cocktail: Travis Gale

By: Brenna DeBlasio

Local mixologist Travis Gale is bringing years of experience and expertise to a new project he is working on right here in St. Augustine.

“Growing up in St. Augustine, Fla., I was introduced to the hospitality industry at an early age, landing my first restaurant job at Salt Water Cowboys, here in town. I was eager to learn everything that was necessary to run a restaurant, wanting to work every position available.

Finding myself in Gainesville, Fla. a few years later, I decided to study graphic design and advertising while maintaining a full-time restaurant job. Later, working for a few high-volume bars/clubs in the area, I was able to get my feet wet behind the bar. It wasn’t until I landed a job working at a Double Tree Hilton where my passion sparked for craft cocktail and guest experience.

Wanting to further my craft, I made the to move to Denver, Colo., where the food and beverage scene was booming. I was able to get a job with Sage Hospitality at a bar called Poka Lola Social Club, a midcentury cocktail bar in the Maven Hotel. Working there for two years not only allowed me to use my degree through menu design and content creation, but my knowledge for everything hospitality grew tremendously as well.

During my time in Denver, I competed in numerous cocktail competitions that took me around the world and had involvement with seven programs around the city. Learning what I did in the time I had in Denver, my dream is to bring a piece of that back to North Florida.

Come Jan. 1, 2021, I’m involved in opening the first voco Hotel by IHG in the United States here in St. Augustine. The idea is simplicity, while offering a sense of complexity in both our beverage and food program. Using unique spirits and working with brands that focus on sustainability and quality is something I strive for. I hope to offer a new experience for people in North Florida, showcasing this beautiful and forever evolving drinking culture.”

Cocktail Name: Don’t Call Me Crazy

“When going out to drink I usually turn to more high proof and funky styled spirits, neat or on the rocks, as my drink of choice. People would proceed to call me crazy, so here is an alternative to enjoy these beautiful spirits without the full proof of drinking them straight up, still experiencing the unique character they provide. Cheers!

1.25oz of Hampden Estate 46
.75oz Rum Fire .5oz Benedictine
.75oz Fresh Lime Juice
.33oz 2:1 Cinnamon Syrup
1 dash of Black Walnut Bitters

Build all ingredients in a cocktail tin and shake with one ice cube vigorously. Dump mixed ingredients in a Zombie glass or a 16-ounce vessel with crushed ice. Garnish with a mint bouquet and orange peel. Enjoy!”