From Family Traditions to the Craft of Bartending
Raised in a loving home where social drinking brought laughter, connection, and warmth, Tiffanie Barriere found her passion for mixology early on. Her fond memories of family gatherings—full of shared stories and communal joy—inspired her to pursue a path where cocktails became a vehicle for bringing people together.
As she learned the art of bartending, Tiffanie realized her true gift was connecting with people through drink, echoing the spirit of those family moments from her childhood.
“Crafting cocktails became my way of recreating joy,” says Barriere.
Crafting Cocktails with Heart and Heritage
Barriere, widely known as “The Drinking Coach,” blends technical skill with storytelling in every glass. Her mixology style is driven by:
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Seasonal inspiration
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Personal emotion
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Everyday moments and moods
Whether she’s mixing a nostalgic punch or a simple, fresh lemonade, each drink is a nod to tradition and an invitation to connect with your roots.
“Even with all the creativity in mixology today, I always come back to the basics,” she shares.
Her philosophy embraces simplicity, nostalgia, and soul, ensuring each beverage becomes more than a drink—it becomes an experience.
Celebrating Spirits: Tequila, Gin, and the Elegance of Cognac
Tiffanie’s relationship with spirits is both playful and profound. Her current go-to? Agave tequila—bold, uplifting, and celebratory.
“Tequila is the ultimate celebration drink. It lifts your spirit, whether you’re having a great day or a tough one,” she says.
She also appreciates the attitude of gin, the versatility of vodka, and holds a deep love for Cognac, which she considers the sexiest spirit of all.
“Cognac is sensual, elegant, and romantic. It speaks to the soul—from the countryside of France to the richness in every sip.”
Bartending with Compassion: Stories from Behind the Bar
Tiffanie’s legendary run at One Flew South, the award-winning bar at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, is full of heartfelt stories. One unforgettable moment involved a friendly drinking contest between guests that ended with one passed out near a gate. True to her nurturing nature, Tiffanie brought water, food, and a handwritten note offering help.
“That moment reminded me of the responsibility we hold as bartenders—we serve, but we also protect,” she reflects.
While she hasn’t had to cut anyone off, she’s mastered the subtle art of knowing when to pull back and keep guests safe while ensuring a positive experience.
Advice for Aspiring Bartenders: Passion, Purpose, and Palate
When asked what she’d tell the next generation of mixologists, Tiffanie’s answer is clear:
“You have to love making people feel special.”
She believes successful bartenders should be:
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Creative
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Versatile
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Personable
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Knowledgeable across all spirits
She compares bartending to cooking, where the satisfaction comes from watching someone’s face light up after the first sip.
“When a customer says, ‘I trust you,’ that’s the highest compliment.”
Tiffanie also emphasizes ongoing education, proudly noting her highest-level certification from Bar 5, and encourages others to hone their palates, product knowledge, and flavor vocabulary.
Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future of Mixology
With a résumé that includes features in major publications, appearances on TV, and groundbreaking accolades—including being part of the first group of Black women to present at the James Beard House—Barriere is more than a bartender. She’s a trailblazer for inclusion, education, and cultural recognition in the cocktail world.
Connect with The Drinking Coach
🥂 Follow Tiffanie on Instagram: @the drinking coach
📚 Book her for speaking, training, or special events
🌎 Visit: thedrinkingcoach.com
📰 Featured in: Food & Wine, The New York Times, Essence, Bon Appétit