People

SIP CHAMP

Giovanni J. Cansino is a popular bartender at one of the area’s newest hotspots who believes a drink says a lot about the person ordering it — and even more about the bartender serving it up.
Text by Blue Arauz Photos by Chantal Lawrie | June 19, 2018 | People

For Giovanni J. Cansino, the fun doesn’t really get started until the drinks begins flowing at Brickell’s hottest new venue: The Hoxton Urban Beach House — especially when it comes to his patrons. “My favorite part of being a bartender is talking to people about the drinks I’ve made for them,” he says. “There’s no better feeling than when they ask me to describe the inspiration behind what they’re sipping on.” A huge soccer fan and active player of the sport in his spare time, Cansino has brought some of the adrenaline he’s fond of out on the field to his new gig, complementing the venue’s smooth, modern New England charm with his own unique energy. At The Hoxton, Cansino and his team serve up signature drinks — and dishes — with fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs grown by local farmers. A crowd favorite is The Hoxton Lemonade, the venue’s take on a traditional Moscow Mule. “It’s a very refreshing, tasty drink with a nice kick to it,” he says. And he’s not kidding.

The Hoxton Lemonade
2 oz. Ketel One
3/4 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
1/2 oz. Homemade Basil Syrup
4 Muddled Strawberries
Topped w/ Ginger Beer
Garnished w/ 1/2 Strawberry
& Basil Leaf