Paola Salinas
Born amidst the vibrant landscapes of Bolivia, Paola Salinas has called Northern Virginia home for most of her life. Her journey into the food and beverage world began in her early twenties, managing a boutique Latin delicatessen, where she discovered her passion for crafting memorable culinary experiences. After stepping away to earn her biology degree at George Mason University, Paola's enthusiasm for food and beverage only deepened. She spent that time delving into the art and science of mixology, mastering both classical and molecular bar techniques.
In 2015, Paola rejoined the food and beverage industry at Barcelona Wine Bar in Washington, D.C., where her exceptional talent and leadership earned her the roles of lead bartender and corporate trainer. During her tenure, she collaborated in launching and implementing their cocktail programs at locations in Virginia, Atlanta, and Nashville, ensuring consistency and excellence across the brand.
By 2017, Paola joined the prestigious Fabio Trabocchi Restaurants as Beverage Manager for Del Mar on the D.C. waterfront. Under her stewardship, Del Mar's cocktail program earned accolades from *The New York Times*, *The Washington Post*, and *Washingtonian*, cementing her reputation as a visionary in the world of mixology.
In 2022, Paola co-founded Vera Cocina and Bar, a Mexican-Lebanese restaurant, alongside a multi-space venue, Culture. She worked to blend culinary and musical artistry, spearheading every aspect of the operation, from designing comprehensive front- and back-of-house systems to curating menus and training staff. Paola brought a creative vision and a meticulous eye for detail to the design of serveware and the presentation of food and beverage programs, ensuring every element reflected the rich interplay of Mexican and Lebanese cultures.
Today, Paola continues to channel her expertise and creativity into helping clients realize their visions. Known as "The Cocktail Bruja," she combines liquid alchemy with cultural storytelling, crafting unforgettable flavors and experiences. Paola's mission is to celebrate the magic of food and beverage, transforming every project into a masterpiece of taste, texture, and tradition.