Master Mixologist: Jimmie Saito of MASTROS in Midtown

Jimmie Saito moved to New York City from Houston to pursue a career in acting. Like many New Yorkers who are trying to make a living in show-business, Saito began bartending at Mastro's Steakhouse in NYC to gather a steady income in between acting jobs. Yet, working at Mastro's Steakhouse has meant a lot more to Saito. After being at Mastro's in NYC for 3 years, and the restaurant company for approximately 5 years, Mastro's has enabled him to grow and build character, while also supporting his dream of becoming an actor. Interacting with a diverse array of people at the Mastro's bar provides Saito with a new prospective, that he carries with him in his acting career.

Broadwayworld.com had the pleasure of interviewing Jimmie Saito of Mastro's in NYC for our "Master Mixologist" feature.

When did you first become interested in the cocktail culture?

I started making specialty cocktails 8 years ago when I was 26. I've been in the restaurant business since I was 15 years old so I was always exposed to the restaurant environment. Bartending always seemed the most fun. I love meeting new people and communicating with them in an organic situation.

What innovations in mixology and bartending do you find fascinating?

I love learning about new products and how to mix them to come up with a perfectly balanced cocktail. In New York especially, each season brings new motivation to create something that the guest would enjoy. I end up serving very different drinks in the winter than I do during the summer months.

How do restaurant and bar guests encourage your creativity?

Everyone has different tastes and palates. It gives me the opportunity to experiment and tailor to each individual's likes.

What are your preferred "classic cocktails" and why?

I like to make and drink classic whiskey cocktails. Old fashions and sazaracs are my favorite because I can create a modern twist on a classic drink and introduce guests to something that they might not have otherwise ordered.

What are some of your favorite infusions and how you like to use them in drinks?

I like to infused mezcal tequila with jalapeños. The spice of the peppers complement the smoke of the tequila which is appealing for tequila and bourbon alike. The flavor is delicious by itself or mixed into a margarita.

Tell us about a few of your signature cocktails and why they are distinctive.

We have a refreshing scotch drink on our menu called the Scotsman. We take Glenmorangie Scotch, mixed with Aperol, fresh basil, orange bitters and white grapefruit juice, stirred and poured over a large ice cube. It is delicious all year around.

Give us your perfect pairing for a cocktail and a culinary selection.

A pairing that I like is our signature thick cut bacon appetizer with a cocktail called the Silencio Smoke. This is a spicy, smoky cocktail that is very popular among our clientele. We take El Silencio Mezcal Espadin, mixed with Ancho Reyes Chili Liquor, agave nectar with fresh lemon and lime-juice served over ice with a jalapeño slice.

The way the two items compliment each other are delicious. The smoke of the drink highlights the flavor of the bacon to make a delicious pairing.

About Mastro's

Mastro's Steakhouse in New York City is an iconic restaurant celebrated by diners and critics alike and is renowned for indulgent, signature dishes such as their two-foot-tall seafood tower, lobster mashed potatoes, and melt-in-your-mouth Signature Warm Butter Cake. The restaurant is a bi-level, 8,395 square foot space, with décor specifically chosen to reflect the authenticity of New York City. Mastro's offers a first-class dining experience with the highly attentive, genuine service and hospitality that guests have come to expect. The menu features only the highest quality, freshest seafood and USDA Prime steaks, complemented with a wide selection of sharable appetizers, family-style side dishes and house-made desserts. Additionally, Mastro's offers live music at the upstairs bar 7 nights a week.

Mastro's NYC is located in the heart of Midtown at 1285 6th Avenue (on the corner of 52nd Street) New York, NY 10019. They are a top destination for pre and post theatre dining and offer a great bar and lounge experience. Call them at 212.459.1222 and visit https://www.mastrosrestaurants.com/Locations/NY/New-York/.

Photo: Silver Paloma Cocktail , Courtesy of Mastro's

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