John Aquino of Coast is the master of mojiitos
John Aquino is probably best known for concocting his delicious, innovative mojitos.
Winner of Charleston's Mojito Challenge for the past four years, Aquino puts thought into every cocktail he brews.
His sense of humor and his knack for blending ingredients guarantee that his customers leave the bar with a pleased palate.
Q: How long have you been at Coast?
A: Six years, the duration of the time that the restaurant has been open.
Q: What's your favorite thing about bartending at Coast?
A: I get to create my drink list. They give me free range. We get so many types of people at the bar: business people, vacationers. And bartending is different every day. You're always meeting people and learning from them.
Q: What's your signature drink?
A: Well, now it's a mojito! A lot of people come in just for those.
But I also like when people just tell me what they want in their drink and I can make it for them. I like new challenges.
Q: What do you enjoy about participating in the mojito challenge?
A: The proceeds go to the Special Olympics, which is something that I feel very passionately about. That's why I've participated for the last five years. I also enjoy using local produce, like peaches, watermelons, to make the drinks.
Q: What's your craziest experience as a bartender?
A: Well, one time I got free backstage passes to a U2 concert. That was pretty cool. But when I first started bartending, I actually met the celebrity Jackie Gleason! He was a pretty difficult customer!
Q: How do you feel about Charleston's nightlife?
A: We need more clubs to go dancing! If you go to bigger cities or to Europe, there are always nightclubs. I think Charleston could benefit from that.
Q: What advice would you give new bartenders?
A: Listen to the old ones! And learn all the short cuts.
Q: What's the best hangover remedy?
A: Three lemonade flavored Emergen-C packets, and a lot of water!
Q: What's your personal favorite drink?
A: I don't really drink liquor. In the summer, I enjoy a nice, chilled glass of Torrontes. It's a white wine from Argentina, and it is perfect for hot weather.
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