SF Female Bartenders Breaking the Speed Rack Barrier

By Lou Bustamante Thu., Jan. 5 2012 at 10:48 AM

Categories: Cocktails & Spirits, Events, Mission, SOMA

Kelly Puleio

LUPEC SF

The cocktail boom has introduced more changes behind the bar than fresh juices and homemade bitters; female bartenders, too, are becoming the norm rather than the exception. Showcasing the increasing number of women in the craft cocktail movement is LUPEC (Ladies United for Preservation of Endangered Cocktails).

Started in 2001 with a mission to "create a secular 'coven-like' atmosphere in which classy broads of today can invoke and honor the spirits of their Forebroads," the group offers support to the increasing number of women-owned bars and spirits companies. Kiki Braverman who started the local chapter in early 2011, explained that the value includes "a unique perspective to benefit the individual members in an industry that still has one of the lowest glass ceilings."

This weekend, the group will host "Speed Rack," a national competition organized by the New York chapter of LUPEC. The event is designed to find the fastest female bartender while raising money for breast cancer charities. Highlighting local talent like Brooke Arthur (Wo Hing), Jennifer Colliau (Slanted Door and Small Hand Foods), Victoria Damato-Moran (Belden Taverna), and Tina Ross (Rickhouse), the event also includes cocktails and some eats. Keep an eye and ear out for Beretta bar manager Ryan Fitzgerald, who will be behind the wheels of steel, mixing up music instead of drinks.

Speed Rack SF
Where: Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission (at Duboce)
When: Sun., Jan. 8, 3-7 p.m.
Cost: $25 online or at the door (if not sold out)

Lou Bustamante tweets at @thevillagedrunk. Follow SFoodie at @sfoodie, and like us on Facebook.