If you’re the type that likes to try your hands on different cocktails at home, then you’ve probably come across @equal_parts_cocktail on Instagram. Co-owner Emilio Salehi, who is currently the bartender at The Beehive in San Francisco, started the Instagram page with his twin brother Miguel. 

Both Miguel and Emilio, along with their friend Anthony (who joined in April 2020) run the page together, where they make different cocktails with bartenders in San Francisco, including those visiting. 

Today, Emilio tells us how he got into bartending and shares his favorite place to drink at in the city. 

Emilio Salehi, Bartender at The Beehive, San Francisco

What inspired you to get into bartending?

I started working in bars when I was just 20 years old while attending college in South Carolina. I always thought it would be a fun job. I got hired along with my twin brother because the bar owner thought it would be cool to have twins behind the bar. Later on, in my late twenties, I came back to bartending for the flexible schedule, good pay, and creative outlet.

According to you, what are some of the most important skills for a bartender to have?

Personality. You can teach everything else.

What are some of your favorite places to drink at when you’re not working?

My favorite cocktail bar to go to is True Laurel. Consistently the most interesting and delicious cocktails in California. 

What has been your most bizarre client request?

Virgin Old-Fashioned.

Is The Beehive open? And can we visit?

Yes, we're open! Please bring proof of vaccination and a mask!

How has your journey as a bartender evolved through social media in the past year?

During the pandemic, I leaned heavily on my photography and videography company @equal_parts_cocktail. It became my source of income and creative outlet while everything was shut down.

What are you drinking right now?

Anything with watermelon.