Today, we’re switching things up and shining a spotlight on the talent behind our favorite drinks. Meet Mandi, an exceptional mixologist crafting delicious cocktails at the Goetchius House. For years, Mandi’s name has repeatedly emerged as the go-to for amazing cocktails, no matter where she serves.
A Unique Journey
Originally a military spouse with a background in training and development for the Department of Transportation, Mandi had to change everything when she moved to Columbus after getting married. After a few failed attempts at finding a job in her field, she took a bartending gig to fill the gaps between employment. With her drive and passion for learning, Mandi found joy in mastering a new trade and skill. Three years later, she has no regrets and continues to appreciate the endless opportunities for education in her newfound profession.
Creative Process
Mandi’s creative process for crafting drinks begins with her trusty sketchpad and favorite pens. She starts by doodling ideas, from the contents of the drinks to sketching what she envisions the final product will look like. Organization is key for Mandi, as she needs to see everything laid out in front of her. She then delves into figuring out which herbs or flavors pair well together, or how she can enhance a basic spirit like Bacardi white rum into something more clever, such as a coconut fat-washed Bacardi white rum.
Mixology Style and Inspiration
Mandi describes her mixology style as “by the book.” As a self-taught bartender, she learned by watching videos on how to count spirits, reading books, and appreciating the art of creativity that the skill can bring. She spent countless hours studying “Cocktail Codex” and “Modern Classic Cocktails,” both by Death & Co., which helped her learn and memorize standard cocktail recipes and how to substitute ingredients to enhance drink recipes. Mandi’s dedication to her craft is evident in the countless experiments she conducted during her downtime at the hotel ground break, always striving to improve and learn more.
Signature Creations
At the popular Goetchius House, Mandi has crafted a brilliant drink menu that pays homage to the owners’ Brazilian roots. One standout is the Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, which features Cachaca, a Brazilian rum with a slightly higher alcohol content. Mandi wanted to bring this refreshing and unique cocktail to the Columbus market, as it wasn’t something she had seen around town before.
Another signature creation is her twist on the classic Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade, substituting the blackberry with açaí berry, which originates in Brazil, to create a delicious and culturally-inspired cocktail.
The Rewards of Being a Mixologist
For Mandi, the most rewarding aspect of being a mixologist is the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of people in a dynamic atmosphere. As a natural extrovert, she thrives in social settings and makes friends at every chance she gets. Mandi feels more herself in this career than ever before, making it the perfect choice for her.
Local and Artisan Ingredients
Supporting local businesses is important to Mandi, which is why she incorporates products from Derby Mule, a locally-owned salt and sugar rim company, into her creations. You can find their dill pickle salt on the Bloody Mary rims during brunch and delicious sweet lemon sugar on the rim of her homemade Strawberry Lemon Drops. Mandi met the owner, Bryan Bonner, three years ago when he was one of her regulars, and she’s been a supporter ever since.
Connect with Mandi
If you’re curious to learn more about Mandi’s cocktail creations or want to see what she’s mixing up next, be sure to follow her on Instagram at @mixingwithmandi. You can also experience her delightful concoctions firsthand by visiting the Goetchius House and trying one of her signature drinks.
Mandi’s journey from military spouse to master mixologist is an inspiration to anyone looking to pursue their passions and learn new skills. Her dedication, creativity, and love for her craft have made her a rising star in the Columbus culinary scene, and we can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Visit The Goetchius House in Columbus, Georgia
Ready to explore Mandi’s unique cocktail creations? Here’s everything you need to plan a visit to The Goetchius House, where you can experience her signature drinks and the welcoming ambiance firsthand.
Whether you’re stopping by for a refreshing Caipirinha or looking to try one of Mandi’s latest cocktail innovations, The Goetchius House is ready to make your visit memorable. Keep checking back with Columbus Georgia Eats for more spotlights on local talent and must-visit spots around town!
