The Cup Bearer is a cocktail catering company featuring career mixologists, led by founder Justin Pasha. The team elevates beverages at events in New York City, Miami, and the Hamptons. We caught up with Pasha to learn more.
Talk to us a bit about your background in the industry.
I grew up in the hospitality industry and held just about every job you could think of. I worked in delis, I shucked oysters, I held waiter positions. But, I fell in love with this industry. The people, the customers, the service. I went to college for hospitality and made a go of it. I always had an affinity for the bartenders when I was working in restaurants. I realized that they were the drivers of the vibe – no matter the venue – and I thought it was admirable. So, I learned mixology.
Tell us about the concept for The Cup Bearer and the inspiration behind it?
I was inspired to create this company at an actual event, believe it or not. I was in an apartment that had beautiful, bespoke items, amazing lighting, and the food was incredible. However, the bar situation was underwhelming. My wheels started turning and thought how much more fun – and how much more of a ‘wow’ factor this gathering would have had – with a bar that matched everything else. The idea for The Cup Bearer was born and I got to work.
I founded The Cup Bearer with the aim of revolutionizing the beverage service industry, bridging the gap between the exceptional mixology experiences guests enjoy in upscale bars and restaurants, and the mundane and outdated beverage offerings typically found at off-premise events. My belief then remains steadfast: those who appreciate and can afford the best should never have to compromise on their event experiences.
With this vision in mind, we have curated cocktail experiences that not only match the aesthetic displays and flavors found in the finest establishments worldwide but often surpass them. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every sip is an extraordinary delight, setting a new standard for event beverage service.
Talk a little about your experience with events on the East End.
Our East End clients are some of our favorites! We do dozens of parties here throughout the year, and the energy here is just different. Maybe it’s the proximity to the ocean, but there’s just something so playful about these events, which makes it a lot more fun for us, too.
What is your go-to cocktail?
Nothing says summer like our classic cocktail, the Persian Lemonade. This particular cocktail has been on our menu since the very beginning and is hard to top.
It’s summer on the East End. What are your favorite things to do?
When the sun is out, and I’m not working, I’m either at the beach or hiking. The East End has the best of both, which is just another reason why it’s one of the best places to be.