Ross Simon
Ross Simon’s name is almost synonymous with the Valley’s mixology scene at this point. The innovative mixologist, spirits master and cocktail creator has expanded his talents into the state’s hospitality scene just the same—incorporating his own flair on Arizona’s cocktail offerings with his own concepts in Bitter & Twisted, Little Rituals and now Don Woods’ Say When—a retro bar and lounge located at the Rise Phoenix Hotel.
Best part of working in the Valley’s mixology scene? I would say coming to the Valley in 2004 and being part of creating the cocktail scene in the first place was definitely a highlight for me. Back then, it wasn’t easy convincing people to drink better while laying the foundation of cocktail culture, which included helping found the Phoenix USBG, Arizona Cocktail Weekend and signing up bartenders from all over Arizona for Bar Smarts. It was a bit of an uphill struggle, to be honest, and contrary to nowadays, it was a very important step that needed to be done and one that I’m incredibly grateful to have been a part of.
Go-to drink? Sbagliato—it’s delicious and light. It is not as intense as its big brother, the Negroni, but is something you can enjoy anytime of the day without feeling messed up.
Best advice to an aspiring bartender or mixologist? My advice to an aspiring bartender or mixologist is to stay humble, and don’t be in a rush. Enjoy the bartending years of your career. And don’t burn the candle at both ends: enjoy your cocktails and keep your life balanced (i.e. everything in moderation without excess).