
If you’ve stumbled upon a spot in Downtown Miami that looks like a very cool thrift shop with a hearty Southwestern vibe serving exceptional drinks, chances are you’re in Lost Boy. Décor for the lofty space includes an impressive collection of cowboy boots neatly lined up against the bar and portraits of several U.S. presidents, among other eclectic items. Jaslyn Ramos, who describes herself as “a mountain-chasing mixologist, with a passion for adventure and an undercover yogi from Miami” makes the magic happen behind the bar. We caught up to her for some high-proof Q&A.
Q&A
Why bartending?
Interacting with all walks of life and experiencing different cultures through their influence on food and beverage is invaluable. It became my safe place where I feel most inspired to learn and grow. The energy flowing when a crowd of patrons are paying attention to every idiosyncrasy of cocktail curation while simultaneously providing an experience that empowers me to reflect on my own performance is one of a kind. For me, it’s loving the idea of being able to work anywhere in the world as well!
Favorite quote?
“The most important question to ask on the job is not ‘What am I getting?’ The most important question to ask on the job is ‘What am I becoming?’—Jim Rohn
You can design your own cocktail napkin – what would it be or what would it say?
“Drink responsibly, don’t spill it.”
Drink everyone needs to know, and why?
Paper Plane (bourbon, Aperol, Amaro and lemon juice). I’m currently obsessing over cocktails that utilize Amaro [an Italian herbal liqueur]. But also, Lost Boy’s Cartel Jungle Bird (coconut cartel rum, house aperitif blend, pineapple and lime) is a must-know.
Bar trend you wish would fizzle out?
Jager Bombs, or any drink made with Red Bull/ energy drinks.
Piece of advice you wish to share?
“Be adaptable and always continue to do better. Personal growth and self-work is a never-ending process and there are always going to be ways in which you can push yourself to be better. For me, it’s about continuing to push my skill set and creativity, and learning that I have to evolve and be adaptable to ever-changing circumstances.”
Favorite bar music?
I love a good range of old school rap, alternative rock and live cover bands. I like the volume high enough to jam, but low enough to inspire and enjoy a decent conversation.
Best bar snack?
Charcuterie Board — you just can’t go wrong with spread of cured meats and cheese, am I right? Lost Boy has an amazing one.
Who, living or not, would you want to make a drink for? Why?
Jim Rohn, my favorite personal development philosopher who has guided me in all my pursuits.
Strangest thing a patron ever revealed/told you?
Once I named a man’s tab “sexy”. As the night got busier, my coworker checked him out, not realizing the receipt would print out with the tab name “sexy”. He then walked over to the other side of the bar and said, “Hey sexy” and handed the check to me with a 100% tip on the $150 tab. Yes, he read it, and after all that; I wanted to crawl beneath my well.
Spicy Siesta
Serves 1
2 oz. Corazón Reposado tequila
1 oz. lime juice
0.75 oz. of agave
0.25 oz. Campari
1 dash of Scrappy’s hellfire bitters
Chile - tajin salt rim on half of the coupe glass
Build:
Add all ingredients to the shaker, shake vigorously and double strain into a coupe glass.
Garnish with a chile salt rim.