Maria Rodriguez

Head Bartender
Cantina Rosa

Maria Rodriguez’s journey in hospitality is a testament to resilience, creativity, and passion. Starting as a food runner at Virtue Restaurant, she steadily worked her way up, excelling as an expediter before discovering her true calling behind the bar. Her talent and drive quickly stood out, earning her a bartender role at Virtue, where she refined her craft and developed a unique approach to Southern-inspired cocktails.

Over the past two years, Maria has been instrumental in designing innovative cocktail menus, collaborating with the Virtue bar team to blend technical expertise with a deep love for storytelling. Now, as Head Bartender at Cantina Rosa, Maria brings her creativity full circle by honoring her parents’ Mexican heritage. Her agave-forward and non-alcoholic creations pay tribute to tradition while daring to reimagine it, capturing the essence of her roots in every glass.

Maria draws inspiration from her father’s career in band promotions, which exposed her to the vibrant energy of nightlife and hospitality. Despite growing up in a home with minimal alcohol, she developed a fascination with the craft of cocktails and the transformative experiences they create.

At Cantina Rosa, Maria’s mission is clear: to craft drinks that allow guests to momentarily escape, find joy, and feel truly cared for. She is driven by a vision of hospitality that connects people through shared moments, and she sees her role not just as a bartender but as someone who creates spaces of comfort and connection. Looking ahead, Maria is committed to shaping the industry with her passion for service, storytelling, and her unwavering dedication to celebrating culture through cocktails.