Meet Taylor Lax | Cocktail Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Taylor Lax and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Taylor, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

So, my foray into social media was pretty much a happy accident. I had this cocktail account I played around with, but it didn’t really take off until the pandemic hit. Just before all that craziness, I’d wrapped up a global cocktail competition, and I snagged a spot in the Top 8 for the USA. Things were looking up in my bartending career, and I was about to run this cool Farmer’s market Omakase bar in a venue. But, you know, we opened our doors just three days before the pandemic slammed us.

Suddenly, I found myself feeling a bit lost. I was used to always being on the move, whether behind the bar or out hustling sales for my family’s small LA-based whiskey brand, KIN Whiskey. I had to pivot, get creative, and find ways to keep the quarantine vibes strong. That’s when I decided to go all in on my social media game. And it’s wild how it took off from there. Big brands started reaching out for content collaborations, and I even got hit up by some major corporations to host virtual happy hours for their staff.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What makes me stand out? Well, I’m all about keeping it real. Nothing’s off the table when it comes to my passion for crafting cocktails and supporting my LA bar community. I’m all in when it comes to helping others grow, and if I can make a connection to lend a hand, I’m the first one there.

My journey kicked off by working events for friends, and then I ventured into the world of liquor sales when my Dad launched KIN Whiskey. That was a real labor of love, a passion project he and his buddies started when I was just a kid. I have vivid memories of our house being filled with mason jars filled with different batches his friend whipped up in his so-called “distillery” – it was just a modified coat closet. It brought my Dad so much joy to chase his dream, and I was right there with him.

Over the past 8.5 years, I’ve worn many hats in this industry – from being a host, barback, bartender, lead bartender, bar manager, beverage manager, to even working as a beverage consultant. In this time, I’ve crossed paths with a wide spectrum of folks, from the absolute best to those who were, well, not so great. I’ve also had my share of judgment to deal with, often because I’m an openly queer bartender. The industry used to have this pretty strong toxic masculinity vibe, but things are evolving for the better, and it’s awesome to see more queer and female bartenders making big waves in the scene.

This industry is all about putting in the work, showing up, educating yourself, and taking the time to grow. I’ve been around the block, seen the creativity of countless bartenders, and soaked up lessons from each one of them. It’s a journey, and I’m loving every moment of it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Alright, LA is packed with places I absolutely love. Let’s dive into the food scene, but I’ve gotta split it into three categories.

First, for a quick, casual bite, I’m all about Il Tramezzino, Destroyer, and Din Tai Fung. They’re my go-tos when I’m on the move and need a tasty fix with Friends.

Now, when it’s time to wine and dine in style, I’ve got quite the list. Bavel, Birdie G’s, Ronan, Here’s Looking at You, De la Nonna, and Cento Pasta Bar are absolute must-visits.

And for just hanging out with some drinks, I’d recommend checking out Jones, Bar Next Door, Capri Club, Bar Stella, and The Prince in Ktown. They’ve got that laid-back vibe I’m all about.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve gotta give a shout-out to my old man, Bernard Lax, who was not just my father but also my best buddy. He’s the one who drilled into me the importance of hard work and the value of a dollar. My work ethic, my drive, that’s all thanks to him.

He was my number one fan, always proud of what I was up to. Back when he was around, he got to witness me really kicking it in the cocktail competition scene. But, man, he never had the chance to taste my concoctions at the venues I was running. That’s one of those moments I wish he could’ve been a part of.

Website: KINWhiskey.com

Instagram: The.cocktail.bandit

Image Credits
Harper Rose @harperrosefotos Genevieve @Bellamarieadams