You may know Cristian from Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, and I’m guessing he has poured you many HippopotoMai-Tais, some Krakatoa Punches and maybe an Uh Oa! or two. But did you know that Cristian has his own YouTube show? It’s called Adventures With Alchemy and in each episode, he reveals some of his secrets on how to make truly great cocktails. If you’re into tiki drinks or even craft cocktails, Adventures In Alchemy is a must watch!
What is the tiki scene like where you live?
Cristian- Pre-2020 I would consider the tiki scene to be alive and vibrant in orange county. In my area alone, there are three well known tiki bars within a short driving distance and Los Angeles is the birthplace of tiki itself.
What brought you into the ‘Tiki lifestyle” and how long has it been part of your life?
Cristian- Nine years ago I was hired to work at Trader Sam’s and with the help of the community, I fell in love with the culture. The combination of history and craft cocktails immediately fascinated me.
Can you tell us about what your show Adventures With Alchemy is all about? What made you decide to start making videos?
Cristian- Adventures With Alchemy is a lighthearted approach to culinary cooking and craft cocktails. The show is intended to educate, entertain and be approachable to anyone, whether that person works in the industry or not.
Me and my wife started the channel for a few reasons. One, it gave us a project to do together. Two, I am an extrovert and being locked inside I needed a way to continue to stay connected while being safe. Finally, this also gave me a way to practice my skills and expand my knowledge. My goal is to be better and more knowledgeable for when we return.
What is your favorite Tiki drink?
Cristian- The Mai Tai! Made correctly, the Mai Tai is the perfect cocktail for any novice or seasoned enthusiast. For me, the Mai Tai has an interesting backstory to entertain guests with, pairs well with food, and is a perfectly balanced cocktail.
What is your favorite Tiki bar?
Cristian- Other than Trader Sam’s, I would have to say Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco for multiple reasons. Just to name a few: They have over 550 different rums on the shelf with over 800 varieties that have passed through; their team is extremely knowledgeable, being able to make any tiki cocktail correctly; and their ambiance is gorgeous with so much attention to detail, from their menu design to all the exotic furniture. Side note, I admire Martin Cate!
What does the future hold for you and your show?
Cristian- We would love to see continued growth, and collaborations, so that we can evolve as content creators.
Anything else you would like to add?
Cristian- The tiki lifestyle holds a special place in my heart. To me it represents a combination of subculture and quality. From the music, to the mugs, to the cocktails, tiki has produced amazing artists of all sorts. I feel an immense sense of humility to be a part of it. Cheers and thank you!
Check out and Adventures With Alchemy here!
My girlfriend and I are regulars at Trader Sam’s and always go to Cristian to make our drinks! We love how passionate and knowledgeable he is with cocktails. Always a pleasure and we cannot wait to be back again to order our favorite Don the Beachcomber zombie!
I can’t wait to get back to Trader Sam’s as well!!