Tips and Throwing with Bar Director Joshua Monaghan

Bar Director at Rosewood Mayakoba, Joshua Monaghan, believes that gastronomy is a world to discover, filled with sensations, aromas, and flavors.

His introduction to mixology took place in Cancun, where he learned everything has a deliberate purpose when it comes to inventing a cocktail. It inspired him to start brainstorming well-structured cocktails and make his ingredients from scratch. His career began with a short course from instructor Herbert Heredia, who taught him the fundamentals of classic cocktails. Apart from that, he has been self-taught, reading different books and training in the moment.

Joshua Monaghan

Monaghan went on to hold various positions in hospitality in Mexico City, Cancun, and his hometown of Leon. Most recently he spent the past few years at 50 Mils, which is regarded as one of the best bars in the country. But his utmost excitement revolves around the start of a new chapter, full of fresh challenges and goals, at Rosewood Mayakoba.

Rosewood Mayakoba

Rosewood Mayakoba is exceptional and unique in its focus on sense of place. Chef Juan Pablo Loza and the team developed a program that highlights different regions of Mexico. Zapote Bar, Joshua’s home base, is a craft cocktail destination at the heart of the property that pays homage to the Yucatan with its ingredients and techniques. Zapote Bar is a love letter to the Yucatan Penninsula. The bar staff carries products and creates flavors representative of the region. For instance, The Mayayo is their signature twist on a Martini. It uses Gin Katun, a super expressive, locally made gin and sour orange, a fruit native to the region, as well guava and lemon leaves.

Zapote Bar – Rosewood Mayakoba

Guests can expect to feel like they’re at home at Zapote Bar. The bar director himself believes this is what is most important. He quotes “Hospitality is the path that leads us to create bonds of brotherhood and affection that break boundaries. Always put hospitality first.”

Punta Bonita Pool Deck – Rosewood Mayakoba

Monaghan offers bartenders tips to advancing their careers:

1. First and foremost, enjoy your work. If you do not love what you do, it’s a waste of your time.
2. Focus on hospitality and remember to respect your environment—the team, the space, and the products.
3. Keep focused on what you want and do not give up. Continue to reach for your goals and remember everything takes time and discipline to get there.
4. Choose your niche and hone your craft—it’s difficult to become an expert in everything. My most used skill is the throwing technique and now it’s my trademark. I have created a rotation of almost 360 degrees using the throwing technique, which makes the move not only effective, but also fun to watch. I call it Monaghan Throwing.