Dining

Bar Cart

September 15, 2024

Meet Eric Garcia of Toro

The bar scene at Toro Latin Kitchen and Lounge is always a good time. The must-visit watering hole inside Hotel Clio transports you to a space with great music, dim lighting and a lively atmosphere perfect for date nights, guys’ nights, girls’ nights, special celebrations, or just an escape from a long day. So, who’s got you covered? Look no further than your host from behind the bar, Eric Garcia. He’s got the stories. He’s got the drinks. He’s got the ear to talk to if you’re looking to chat. He’s also this issue’s Bar Cart.

How did you get into this industry and why? I fell into it by accident to be quite honest. I was referred by a family member and started off as a barista. Knowing very little about the hospitality field, I started off whipping up great coffee beverages and then ended up transforming it to an amazing espresso martini later in life. Little did I know that it was exactly where I was meant to be.

What’s the vibe at Toro? How is it different from other bars in the neighborhood? Our atmosphere gives luxurious yet modern Latin flare with ambient glow and the feeling of great warmth. It’s a staple in Cherry Creek and a feeling like no other.

What is something about bartending that most people don’t know? Learning the beverages is the easiest part, but you must want to be involved with people. Build relationships with strangers and gain trust. There’s a lot of personalities and energy that you have to confront and, even though not everyone will be the friendliest, you have to find your ground and make sure to defy it with a smile and empathy.

What’s the best drink we’ve never had? The Mercado Margarita takes the cake. It’s a beverage filled with different layers of flavor. You have the tartness of passionfruit, fresh squeezed lime, lingering heat of Serrano, and the perfect cloud of hibiscus rosemary foam. There’s nothing else like it out there.

What’s the most interesting comment you’ve overheard from guests while working behind the bar? It always takes me back to when individuals who I’m taking care of have careers in law, construction, medicine, and other industries. and they make comments like, “Wow I can’t imagine how you do your job, I could never have your skills.” Or “Man, you have such an awesome job!” And I do, but it’s such an honor to know that all walks of life appreciate every kind of skill and artistry. For that, I’m humble and know everyone has a part to play.

What’s the oddest drink order you’ve ever received? We offer all kinds of juices when it comes to our bottomless mimosas, however when it comes to an odd drink, I have a regular who enjoys tomato juice more like a Bloody Mary mix with her Champagne. Still to this day, no one else will order a tomato over the orange but her.

Where do you get your inspiration? I’m a huge foodie and I enjoy traveling and experiencing different restaurants. Not to mention, Food Network is my favorite channel. So, I like to incorporate the same thing but using the bar as my kitchen.

Do you have a signature cocktail that you feature? A crowd pleaser? I’m one who loves to take your classic cocktail and switch it around with different spirits or even combine and build layers of flavors. Take your traditional margarita for instance. Reposado tequila, fresh juice and agave. Aggressively shaking, pour into a rock glass and top it off with a splash of Mezcal. This revamp of a margarita is crisp yet refreshing, giving you small hints of smoke and leather. Now is it for everyone? No, but give it a try before you turn your head.

What’s your idea of the perfect summer and fall cocktail? Stick to what is in season, the fresher the better. Summer beverages that I’m normally into are light, refreshing, bubbles, citrus and berries like a French 75 or Aperol Spritz. For the other half of the year, starting in the fall, I go towards more hot beverages or neat pours that are sippable spirits like a Hot Toddy or a great pour of Angels Envy rye neat.