Leo de Rivera Takes Over as Head Bartender and Mixologist at Article 14

Entertaining comes naturally to Article 14’s head bartender and mixologist Leo de Rivera. Rivera takes over from another popular and very accomplished mixologist, Arianne Fielder.

“I want everyone to be welcome,” he says. “We have a certain elegance at Article 14, but I believe we also achieve a level of service that makes you feel like you're in your neighborhood – that this is your place with great cocktails, great food and gracious service. I hope everyone that comes here leaves wanting to come back.”

Along with making sure guests receive exceptional service at Article 14, he is just as dedicated to the craft and artistry of cocktails.

“I believe in using the freshest ingredients possible, coupled with the best products I can find,” he explains. “My techniques are classic craft-based with a Japanese craft-style influence. There is a smattering of molecular mixology in there as well. I guess the best way to describe it is I take a Jeet Kune Do approach to the bar. I take what technique I need and use what I think is appropriate for what I'm trying to achieve.”

Prior to joining Article 14, he gained over seven years of experience behind the bar at restaurants such as Seven Lamps in Buckhead and Freight Kitchen & Tap in Woodstock, Ga. An active member of the Atlanta chapter of the United States Bartenders’ Guild, he was a regional finalist in the 2013 Campari Aperitivo Contest.

As for what he hopes to accomplish in the future, the ambitious mixologist, who claims to have a “ridiculously large Hawaiian shirt collection,” does not disappoint: “If I can figure out how to mix cocktails and play the guitar or ukulele at the same time, y'all will see that!”

Here at Midtown Patch, we can't wait to stop by Article 14 and check out the new bartender and his signature drinks.  May be a good time to go during this slow 'mid holiday week', just after Christmas and before the New Year.