Leo Holtzman started performing stage magic at Tobacco Road before he could legally drink there. Almost a decade later, he returned to start a mixology program on the 2nd floor and christened it “The Cocktail Collection.” He was the last to control the spirits and chef-inspired ingredients at the legendary lounge before it closed its curtains after more than a 100-year run. During Leo’s short, some say supernatural tenure, patrons could play out their childhood love for magic shows, while satisfying their grown-up thirst for cocktails. Seeing was believing when the Snaquirí (a portmanteau of snack + daiquiri) arrived. Two versions of the same Florida lime, inverted sugar syrup and Zacapa rum drinks were served on the rocks alongside its fraternal twin strained into a coupe. For his second act, Leo would make worries disappear and smiles reappear with jokes, illusion and sleight of hand. For the finale, he would produce vanilla bean-infused Ketel One Vodka, Bailey’s Irish Cream and Café Pilon to create the levitating Espresso Expression. The encore is a vanishing act that will leave us all guessing where he’ll appear next. Follow his exploits on Instagram @ Cocktail_Conjurer and be on the lookout for his gastropub concept and Tobacco Road’s new location, both opening in 2015.
Smoke Fashion
Smoke captured from a Chef’s Torch-Lit Cedar Plank
2.5 oz. Crown Royal Blended Whiskey
.5 tsp. of Maple Syrup
Splash of Angostura Bitters
Garnished w/ Florida Orange Peel
