The Man at the Bar
From Dishwasher to Bartender: Jay-Ar’s journey behind the counter
Written by Michael Adrian Aspan
For those who’ve sat and eaten by the bar, Jay-Ar is a familiar face. Jay-Ar has been with Leo Sea House since day one (January 2023), and his journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Starting as a kitchen porter, dishwasher, and purchaser, he eventually rose through the ranks to become Chef de Partie.
With dedication and training, he learned knife skills, food preparation, and eventually moved into bartending, learning the craft of mixing drinks from his mentors, Sir Noel and Sir Adam.
For him, working at Leo feels like family. “Masaya ako dito, at parang pamilya na kami,” he says, reflecting on the strong bond within the team. Whether behind the bar or assisting in the kitchen, Jay-Ar brings a deep sense of passion and care to his craft.
His favorite drink to make? The Yuzu Smash—a refreshing and zesty cocktail. He loves watching guests take that first sip, seeing their faces light up with delight.
Beyond mixing drinks, Jay-Ar is always eager to experiment with new flavors, dreaming of creating his own version of a lambanog-based drink, bringing a personal twist to the local coconut spirit. His journey is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and a love for the art of hospitality.