USBG Southern Regionals 2018 – MIAMI

Posted: January 1, 2019 by Infamously Johnny

The United States Bartenders Guild is a national community for bar professionals.

Regional conference allows us to meet other USBG members in our surrounding area.

This annual event is hosted in different member cities to give each chapter the opportunity to educate others on the techniques and trends in their area.

We attended our 1st regional in Miami this May. The four day conference was filled with educational seminars including a beer brewing session with ‘Guinness’, a foam infusion course using ISI whippet and even a honey tasting hosted by the American Honey Board. All a welcome change from the typical brand sponsored spirits tasting.

Each meal was prepared at a hip and modern Miami eatery including ‘Zest’ and ‘Komodo’ that features elevated birds nest sitting; very dope.

The evening bar takeovers showcased beautifully crafted cocktails at popping MIA bars like ‘Better Days’ downtown.

Regional conferences also permit us to discuss important topics in our industry like medical coverage for bar professionals and workplace sexual harassment. Starting and continuing these conversations are critical to the progress of our bar community.

Top 3 Faves

Meeting cool people – aside form meeting members from all over the Southeast; we had direct connection to brand ambassadors of major spirits companies. 2. Storytellers Dinner Series – Dinner entertainment at Cabaret was narrated by soul stirring stories from industry leaders. Four bar professional shared intimate moments from their lives that ultimately shaped their beverage careers. Very inspiring stuff. The 4-course meal was complemented by delicious Grey Goose cocktails.