Columbia Says Farewell to Beloved Bartender Grant McCloskey
As the art of cocktail-making continues to flourish in Columbia, the city is faced with a bittersweet farewell. Grant McCloskey, a notable bartender who has been shaking and stirring in the Capital City for nearly a decade, has announced his departure for Philadelphia. He shared the news with his loyal patrons and followers on social media on September 6, hinting at new adventures ahead.
The Early Days and Rise in Columbia
McCloskey’s journey in the world of mixology began at Cafe Strudel in West Columbia back in 2016. After a brief stint in Austin, Texas, he made his return home to take the helm of the bar program at The Aristocrat, followed by his pivotal role at Ratio, a small plates restaurant in Elgin that focused on Peruvian cuisine.
His collaboration with Chef Javier Uriarte to open Ratio in late 2020 was particularly noteworthy, given the grim challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, through creativity, perseverance, and some standout menu selections, Ratio quickly became a go-to destination in northeast Columbia. “It was like we were crafting a new experience every night. The unique tapas and the drink pairings gave people something they were craving during a tough time,” McCloskey expressed in a reflective moment.
A New Chapter in Philadelphia
Now, McCloskey is ready to move on, seeking new challenges and opportunities in Philadelphia. “I’m excited because it’s another challenge, it’s another opportunity to see where my ceiling is and to push what I’m doing, push myself a lot harder than I am right now,” he said. He recently made the move to lead the bar program at The Hollow in the Vista — an upscale restaurant that serves wild game and had just opened its doors.
The Impact on Columbia’s Cocktail Scene
The Columbia cocktail scene has seen significant growth during McCloskey’s tenure. He was part of a wave of talented bartenders, including the likes of David Adedokun and Jake Smith, who brought fresh ideas and adventurous concepts to the bar scene. “It’s been such a cool opportunity to be a part of the cocktail scene in Columbia. When I got into craft cocktails, it felt like that was a really cool time for Columbia’s bar scene,” McCloskey reminisced.
His passion for mixology has not only involved the creation of amazing cocktails but also participating in various events around the city. He was a familiar face behind the bar at the Columbia Food & Wine Festival and often engaged in cocktail-making contests at local venues.
A Strong Legacy and Bright Future
His presence will surely be missed, but those who worked alongside him emphasize the indelible mark he has left. Chris Fitz, the owner of The Hollow, described McCloskey as the “glue” of the Columbia bar scene, highlighting his vital connections throughout the industry. “He really helped drive this city in that direction,” Fitz explained. “We’ve got a boatload of restaurants right now that are really stepping their game up, and I think Grant was really invested in that.”
As McCloskey prepares to leave Columbia in early October, he plans to work at The Hollow for a few more weeks, ensuring a smooth transition for the bar program there. It’s a time for celebration and gratitude for his accomplishments, while also recognizing that this is just the beginning of new and exciting chapters ahead.
The Weather Update
As Columbia bids farewell to its cocktail maestro, locals can also expect some changes in the weather today. The skies are mostly cloudy with just a slight chance of an afternoon shower, while the temperature hovers around a high of 87°F. A cooler low near 65°F awaits tonight with light north-northeast winds bringing in a gentle breeze. It might just be the perfect backdrop for a farewell toast!
So, whether you’re grabbing a final drink at The Hollow or reminiscing about the great concoctions served at Ratio, let’s raise a glass to Grant McCloskey — a true innovator in Columbia’s beverage scene. Cheers!
