Friends and colleagues remember the massive impact he has had on the drinks industry and the many people he affected.
Chris Patino was beloved in the bar world. This was evident during his final public appearance at the most recent Bartender’s Weekend , the San Diego-based trade event he co-founded. It was technically an event for Teremana, the tequila he helped develop through his brand-building company Simple Serve . The moment Patino arrived, the packed crowd within Swan Bar’s cozy neighborhood confines burst into joyful tear-streaked whooping, giving way to rhythmic chants of “Patino! Patino!” in a sing-song meter usually reserved for superstar athletes. It was bittersweet.
Patino passed away on Friday, October 18 after a four-year battle with pancreatic cancer. His extensive list of achievements confirms his stamp on the bar industry. Patino was a frequent host of the popular cocktail competition Speed Rack , a World’s 50 Best Bar judge, and partner of San Diego bar Raised by Wolves . He was also an award-winning brand ambassador and mentor largely credited with building New Orleans’ cocktail community.