Meet Nicole Holguin of Ruin Bar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Holguin.

Hi Nicole, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve worked in the service industry for as long as I can remember. My early days were spent behind the counter at juice and smoothie bars, and coffee shops. I was always preparing drinks for people. I loved seeing the same regulars, catching up briefly about their day or week, and serving them their favorite drink exactly the way they liked it.

Even back then, I would experiment a little with existing recipes, but I also found a lot of satisfaction in following a recipe to the letter and achieving an almost perfect result every time. I liked the consistency, the “math” of flavor always adding up. Looking back, I think that’s what laid the foundation for my approach to cocktails. I love being creative and thinking outside the box, but I also have deep respect for what came before me: the spirits, the classics, the traditions. My process is often a mix of structure and imagination. This much of one thing plus that much of another, then a sprinkle of my own creativity in between.

Beyond creating recipes, I’m also passionate about garnishing. One of my heroes, the late Josue Romero, known as “The Garnish Guy” called himself a “cocktail stylist,” and I’ve always loved that title. While I may never reach his level of creativity in that area, the final steps of cocktail preparation are still one of the most fun and exciting parts of the process for me.

I’ve been with Ruin Bar for almost 10 years, since the day it opened. I started as a beertender (before we even had a liquor license), then became a bartender, then the cocktail program director, and now I run the entire operation. The owner, Shaheen Sadeghi, is a creative himself, and I feel incredibly lucky to have his trust and freedom to run such a unique space where I get to bring so many of my own and other people’s cocktail dreams to life.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a perfectly smooth road. Like in any hospitality career, there have been moments of trial by fire. Everything from learning how to properly deal with drunk and disgruntled customers, leading a team for the first time, to figuring out how to keep the creative spark alive when business gets hectic, to navigating unpredictable challenges like staffing shortages or supply chain delays. Those moments forced me to think on my feet, lean on my team, and get resourceful. I’m grateful for them now, because they pushed me to grow as both a bartender and a leader, and they’ve shaped the way I approach everything we do at the bar today.

As you know, we’re big fans of Ruin Bar. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Ruin Bar has been open since 2016, serving up craft cocktails with a deep appreciation for the classics and a playful curiosity for the new. We also have a rotating selection of craft beer on draft, and on any given weekend you’ll find us buzzing with both first-timers and a loyal base of regulars. From our local community to die-hard craft cocktail enthusiasts.

The first thing people notice when they walk in is our space. It’s quirky, eclectic, and delightfully mismatched. Every corner has a story, and the atmosphere sparks curiosity before the first sip is even poured.

We like to think we helped pioneer what we call “fast craft” delivering the quality and artistry of a true craft cocktail without making you wait an eternity to enjoy it. Our menu walks that fine line between innovative and approachable, offering something for every palate, from adventurous flavor-seekers to those who just want a beautifully made Old Fashioned. We also make sure to include thoughtful non-alcoholic options so everyone feels welcome.

Brand-wise, we’re proud to have created a space that’s not just about drinks, but about connection. At Ruin, you can come as you are, explore something new, and feel like part of our extended family by the time you leave.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
We’ve been fortunate to have a lot of people and influences play a role in our success. First and foremost, our owner and his design team’s creativity and vision have been instrumental in shaping Ruin Bar’s unique personality and atmosphere. Being located in The Lab also provides an incredible advantage. It’s trendy, artistic environment draws a community of people who appreciate individuality and creativity, which perfectly complements what we do.

I’m also constantly inspired by our hardworking bartenders, whose talent, dedication, and energy bring our cocktails and atmosphere to life every night. My fellow bar manager friends and other local bar owners have been invaluable sources of ideas and support, helping to keep our craft fresh and evolving. And, of course, none of it would be possible without our loyal customers, whose consistent support and enthusiasm keep us going year after year.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruinbar; @cocktailsbynicole
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theruinbar