Chillin’ with Ben Patterson
By Chilled Magazine
Ben Patterson, is best known for his pivotal and culturally important roles as the trans gendered brother of Dr. Ben Warren on ABC’s massively popular Grey’s Anatomy and the groundbreaking drama Noah’s Arc.
Ben returned to television this past summer on OWN’s Greenleaf alongside executive producer Oprah Winfrey, who also stars on the show.
An Oakland native, Ben grew up in a diverse neighborhood of the San Francisco Bay, playing the drums and swimming competitively through high school with future television stars Lance Gross (Tyler Perry’s House of Payne) and Russell Hornsby (NBC’s Grimm). As an aspiring musician, he picked up the guitar and piano, while booking DJ gigs at house parties and local nightclubs, which continued while he was a psychology major at San Diego State University.
Discovered by a scout for a local modeling competition that he ultimately won as “International Model of the Year,” he quickly booked campaigns for Macy’s, Bud Light and various infomercials. Another model suggested him for a walk-on role on The Bold and the Beautiful thus launching his acting career and the rest is history. He has also appeared on show such as CSI-Miami, Happy Endings, Brother and Sisters, and Castle to name a few.
Here’s what this musician and avid cook has to say about making drinks at home and his outstanding jello shots!
Tell us a bit about your recent projects.
I was recently working on the OWN series Greenleaf, along with Oprah Winfrey, Lynn Whitfield, Keith David, Merle Dandridge and a host of others. I am also completing my third album release for iTunes under my band name, Sapphire Sky. Check it out HERE. There are a few more surprises, so be sure and follow me on social media.
With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your down time?
In my down time, I absolutely love to garden. I have a green thumb when it comes to succulents, orchids, and jasmines. My dog, however, has other plans, so I have frequently found myself replacing sprinkler heads and flowers.
When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?
Wow-Los Angeles is full (I mean, full) of great restaurants. I am a huge fan of Brazilian, Thai, Italian, and great American food. I probably have favorites in all categories, but what comes to mind first is the Brazilian restaurant Bossa Nova.
What types of dishes do you usually order?
I usually like to order something new at any given restaurant. Better said, I try to order something that I have not tried to cook myself: beef, pork, fish, and well-prepared veggies.
Do you cook?
Yes, I love to cook and I love to bake.
What types of drinks do you order when out?
When I go out, which is quite often, I am always the driver so I don’t drink. I have always loved ginger beer. Most bars now carry good spicy ones, since Moscow Mules are making a comeback.
Do you prepare drinks at home?
I love this question. I really do enjoy making drinks for people. The key to a great drink is not making it too strong and combining great flavors. One of my favorites is Reed’s Ginger Beer, ginger-infused vodka, and a splash of St. Germain, served up or on the rocks. It always receives a positive reaction.
Do you own a home bar?
Yes–having friends that drink means you will inevitably have parties, and thus, you must be prepared to accommodate all tastes. I am no stranger to the Costco alcohol section.
What is your home bar stocked with?
I have all the basics in the bar, including good vodka, rum, tequila (lots, thanks to some really cool gifts recently), and gin, along with a few good liqueurs (Midori, 43, Grand Marnier, and Kahlua). I have also come across some really good high-end red wines.
What is your favorite drink/cocktail?
I love to make really good Mojitos, Oatmeal Cookie Shots, and most of all, Orange Creamsicle Martinis. I can also make wicked Red Bull jello shots.
Have you ever been a bartender?
Yes, I was a bartender for about four years in different bars and restaurants in L.A., and for private events for about two years.