TWO POWERHOUSES JOIN FORCES
Distinguished Chef de Cuisine, Marcelino Ramos, hailing from the prestigious Piccolo Virtu in Scottsdale and lauded as the recipient of the 2023 New Time's 'Best New Restaurant' award, enters into a refined collaboration with the talented Pour Bastards, the duo behind the 2023 New Time's 'Best Place to Take a Cocktail Geek.' These award winning industry experts join forces to present an entirely novel and unparalleled cocktail bar experience, seamlessly interwoven with a chef-centric menu, designed to satisfy the discerning palates of Roosevelt Row diners that are looking to enjoy the highest level of food and beverage Arizona has to offer.
We proudly present,
MARCELINO RAMOS
&
IVAN HERRERA
With over 18 years of restaurant experience, Ivan has navigated through corporate powerhouses like the White Chocolate Grill to James Beard-nominated Virtú Honest Craft, where he dedicated the last eight years of his career. Specializing in sculpting hospitality experiences, Ivan has been integral in creating atmospheres where every guest feels like a VIP. Leading successful restaurant groups, he excels in recruiting and nurturing top-tier service teams, fostering a culture that enhances each patron's visit.
Mars, as his friends call him, embarked on his culinary journey in 2006, graduating from the prestigious Scottsdale Culinary Institute with an Associates of Occupational Studies in Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts. Venturing into the culinary world, Mars honed his skills in Santa Fe, New Mexico, training under the guidance of Chef Marc Quinones. Seeking a deeper understanding of global flavors, he spent four immersive weeks in Valladolid, Yucatan, Mexico, delving into the rich tapestry of culture and cuisine unique to the region. Mar's continued to add tools to his workbelt traveling internationally to study in Fratte Rosa, Italy, serving as a Chef/Consultant at "La Locanda del Cavalo."
Returning to the U.S., he contributed to the culinary landscape at "Prado," the Montelucia Resort's most elevated concept nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley.
Further refining his craft, Marcelino mastered the art of cooking on a Japanese robata grill at "ROKA AKOR" in Scottsdale. After that tenure his culinary journey reached a significant milestone with six years of dedicated service at "Virtu Honest Craft" in Old Town Scottsdale. His culinary prowess culminated in the role of Chef de Cuisine at Piccolo Virtu, earning the prestigious Phoenix New Times "Best New Restaurant 2023" award.
Today, Mars and Ivan are the owners of "CARVAO catering and events," offering one of the Valley's most unique catering experiences, specializing in live fire cooking. Together, Ivan and Mars bring a wealth of culinary knowledge and experience to the table, seamlessly blending their diverse backgrounds and skills to create memorable dining experiences in the greater Phoenix area of Arizona.
BRENON STUART
&
SAM OLGUIN
Those Pour Bastards, emerge as a beacon of ingenuity and technical finesse in the realm of mixology. Brenon and Sam's journey commenced in the refined atmosphere of distinguished establishments such as the Ritz Carlton and Binkley’s, where they imbibed the essence of hospitality. However, their thirst for knowledge and a genuine passion for cocktail culture urged them further. Mentored by the revered Barter and Shake team, who presided over the famed bars Counter Intuitive and Undertow, the duo meticulously honed their craft, refining their skills and techniques.
Years of exploration and engagement with industry luminaries all over the world have shaped their proprietary style, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavors, textures, and balance. This signature approach sets them apart as pioneers in the field.
Their accolades began with the inception of the celebrated cocktail haven, Killer Whale Sex Club, showcasing their innovation and mastery, winning the 2020 New Time's AND Phx Magazine 'Best New Bar' awards . They further delighted palates with their distinct Pan-Asian concepts, Disco Dragon and Fuck You Pay Me, adding unique threads to the culinary tapestry of Phoenix Arizona.
Pour Bastards Modern Cocktails, their most progressive brainchild, stood as a contemporary testament to mixology. Winning the 2023 New Time's award 'Best Place to Take a Cocktail Geek'. Here, cocktails transcended the conventional, appealing not only to the eye but also to the senses, reshaping the boundaries of the experience. Their creations resonated with modernity and sophistication, an invitation for enthusiasts to embark on a sensory expedition beyond the familiar.
Pour Bastards the bar, gives way to a new and exciting concept partnership with Marcelino Ramos & Ivan Herrera. Pretty Penny promises to deliver more than a bar; it's a haven where cocktails and food are elevated to a thoughtful art form, inviting everyone to savor new dimensions of taste in a fun and modern casual environment.
