Get To Know High Museum of Art Highball Competitor, Hannah Leonard {Grain Spirits + Food}

Last night I sat down with Hannah Leonard at a place that’s she is very familiar with, the bar at Grain Spirits + Food. In this Midtown Atlanta establishment, she has served as bartender for the last 6 months. Her skillful expertise earned this Atlanta native an invitation to compete in the High Museum of Art’s first mixology event, Highball. With 11 years in the service industry and 4 years of bartending under her belt, she is coming to the competition with much craftmenship and passion. I think the other contestants need to watch out! During my visit I also asked a few rapid fire questions to get to know Hannah. Read her answers below, then come see her in action at Highball on February 18th.

Rapid Fire Q & A

What time did you get up this morning?

8:10, and then 8:45

What did you have for dinner last night

A sandwich, I think.

1st alcohol that touched your lips.

A Costa Rican Beer

A cocktail you make for someone you want to impress.

Sazerac

Describe your job in one cocktail.

Whiskey Neat

Popcorn or potato chips?

Popcorn

What’s your mixologist superpower?

Helping guest feel comfortable in their environment.

Cocktail request that makes you roll your eyes.
I try not too. No judgements from me when it comes to what guest want to order.

Ginger ale or ginger beer

Ginger Ale

Bartender or mixologist?

Craft Bartender 

Cocktail that represents Atl

Suppressor

Worse cocktail served to you.

Jack and Ginger

Mimosas or Bloody Mary

Mimosas

Cocktail snob or nah?

When creating, yes. Ordering, no.

Favorite menu item at Grain

The Dirty Chick or Black Lyte

Best midnight snack.

Whatever’s in the fridge that I don’t have to prepare. Also any soup ever.

Advice for aspiring female bartenders.

Find someone in the industry who is willing to invest in you. Do your homework. Know every answer before it’s asked.

What:  Highball

Where:  Margaretta Taylor Lobby, High Museum of Art

1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

When : February 18, 2017, 7:30pm-11:00pm

Tickets: www.high.org