First off, What inspired you to start Continuous Beverage Solutions, and what does the name represent?
I wanted a name that reflected both personal and professional growth. “Continuous” stands for self-improvement and evolution. “Beverage” is my world, my passion. And “Solutions” means I’m here to solve problems, not just point them out. It’s about helping businesses (and people) keep moving forward, smarter and stronger.
You competed in USBG World Class for four years, winning in 2017, and have since served as an educator and judge. How has that experience influenced your work today?Competing in World Class taught me the importance of pushing creative boundaries, maintaining composure under pressure, and striving for excellence at every level. Winning in 2017 was a career-defining moment, but staying involved as an educator and judge has been just as impactful. It reinforced my belief that true mastery is a continuous journey — not a destination — and it has shaped the way I mentor others, design programs, and approach every aspect of hospitality.
You’ve been a bartender, a competitor, a consultant, and speaker. Which role do you feel most connected to?
Honestly? Speaking and consulting light me up the most these days. I love being able to share knowledge, inspire others, and help people see possibilities they didn’t realize were there. It’s about giving back to the industry that gave me so much.
You’ve been sober since 2015. What led you to that decision, and how has it shaped your career in hospitality?
Honestly, I had a few hallucination episodes between 2007 and 2015. I wish I could tell you it was some grand cosmic vision, but mostly, they were random and unsettling enough that I just brushed them off… until my fourth one hit on Memorial Day 2015. That one scared me straight — or at least sober. I decided to take a full year off from drinking. At 9 months in, I realized I felt way better without drinking and decided to stay sober for good. I’m coming up on my 10-year sober anniversary, and honestly, it’s one of the best things that ever happened to me, both personally and professionally. It’s made me a better person in every single aspect of my life.
Congratulations! That’s a wonderful accomplishment and so inspiring, Chris! Early on, you faced resistance when discussing sobriety in the bartending community. What has changed, and why do you feel it’s important to bring the conversation back now?
Back in 2015, I probably came in a little too hot — full soapbox mode. The industry wasn’t ready, and a lot of mentors and “friends” told me to zip it. So I did. But over the years, I have gotten a lot of private messages from people quietly struggling. Fast forward to today: the world is different. Non-alcoholic options are exploding, and people are way more open-minded. So now I’m picking the mic back up — but this time, it’s less “preachy” and more about offering real support, mindful options, and showing that there’s more than one way to thrive in this industry.
How do you balance being in an industry centered around alcohol while personally choosing not to drink?
I learned early on to compartmentalize. I love this industry — it’s my career, my passion — and I realized I could still be an effective bartender, server, and consultant without drinking. I know how to build programs, taste cocktails (yes, without drinking), and create great experiences. And judging by how things have gone… I think it’s fair to say I was right!
What misconceptions do you think bars and bartenders still have about non-alcoholic options?
The biggest misconception is that non-alcoholic options have to be boring — for example, a sad soda water with a lime or a pint glass full of fruit juices. It’s not true. NA cocktails can be just as creative, complex, and profitable as traditional drinks. It’s about treating them with the same respect and creativity you give your regular menu.
Have you faced pushback from venues when introducing no- and low-alcohol cocktails? How do you handle it?
Oh, for sure. Sometimes there’s that old-school mentality: “If it doesn’t have booze, it’s not a real drink.” I just remind them that the more inclusive their menu, the bigger their potential audience — and the bigger the check average. When you frame it in terms of revenue and guest experience, the resistance tends to disappear pretty quickly.
What advice would you give to bartenders who are struggling with their relationship with alcohol but feel stuck in the industry?
You’re not alone, and you’re not broken. You can be wildly successful in this industry without drinking. Find your people, set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Sobriety isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength — and it can actually open doors you never knew existed.
What role do you see bars and restaurants playing in supporting a more inclusive drinking culture?
Bars and restaurants are where culture can completely change or shift. Offering real non-alcoholic options, normalizing mindful drinking, and training staff to treat NA guests with the same respect as everyone else — that’s how we create an industry that welcomes everyone, not just those ordering alcohol.
Mocktails are gaining popularity fast — why do you think more people are choosing non-alcoholic options today?
There’s a growing awareness around health, wellness, and mindfulness, and many people are seeking social experiences without the side effects of alcohol. The modern guest wants to enjoy a sophisticated drink and feel part of the experience, but without compromising their well-being or lifestyle goals. Additionally, the quality of non-alcoholic offerings has improved significantly — they’re no longer an afterthought. They are crafted with intention, creativity, and balance, making them a desirable choice for a much broader audience.
From a health and wellness perspective, what are some benefits of choosing mocktails over alcoholic drinks?
Choosing non-alcoholic beverages supports better overall health in a variety of ways — improved sleep, better hydration, enhanced mental clarity, and a significant reduction in empty calories and sugar, depending on the ingredients used. It also supports emotional well-being, as guests can enjoy social environments without the risk of overconsumption. Non alcoholic drinks allow people to fully engage with their evening and their company while feeling energized and clear-headed the next day.
How are you helping bars and restaurants tap into the growing demand for non-alcoholic options?
When I work with venues, I help them build comprehensive non-alcoholic cocktail programs that stand alongside their traditional offerings — not beneath them. It’s about designing drinks that are just as thoughtful, layered, and visually compelling as any craft cocktail. By doing so, businesses not only meet the evolving expectations of today’s guests but also tap into a highly profitable category. Offering well-crafted non-alcoholic options creates an inclusive environment and drives revenue through broader guest appeal
When a restaurant or bar brings you in as a consultant, what are the key areas you assess first?
First thing? I look at the foundation: profitability, operations, and staff culture. A beautiful cocktail program means nothing if the place is bleeding money or the staff is miserable. It’s all connected.
What’s your philosophy on management training, and what are the biggest leadership mistakes you see in hospitality?
Leadership isn’t about barking orders or micromanaging — it’s about setting expectations, giving tools, and supporting people to succeed. The biggest mistake I see? Managers confusing fear with respect. Great leadership builds trust and accountability, not resentment. They help those around them grow. The best managers I’ve had in my career trained me well enough to eventually move on. That’s true leadership.
How do you educate restaurant owners on the financial benefits of offering well-crafted non-alcoholic cocktails?When I educate restaurant owners about the financial benefits of offering well-crafted non-alcoholic cocktails, I focus on the idea that it creates an opportunity for guests who aren’t drinking — whether by choice or circumstance — to still actively participate in the experience and spend money in the space. By offering thoughtful, high-quality non-alcoholic options, restaurants make all guests feel included and valued, rather than sidelined. This not only enhances the overall guest experience, but also drives additional revenue. It’s a win across the board: owners see increased sales, staff have more to offer and upsell and guests enjoy a more complete and inclusive experience.
What trends do you see shaping the future of hospitality, and how is Continuous Beverage Solutions helping businesses adapt?
Inclusivity, health-conscious options, experience-driven dining, and tech integration are the future. At Continuous Beverage Solutions, I help businesses modernize while staying authentic — so they’re ready for what’s next without losing who they are.
What’s your ultimate goal with Continuous Beverage Solutions? How do you hope to impact the industry long-term?
My goal is to help the hospitality world evolve — to make it more profitable, more inclusive, and more sustainable. I want to be part of the movement that proves you can run successful businesses, serve incredible drinks, and still take care of your people (and yourself) along the way.
Credits:
Edited by Holly Glasser, @hollyglasser of @mithmagazine on Instagram
Featuring: Chris Cardone: @continuousbev & @chriscardOne on Instagram
Websites: https://www.continuousbev.com/
]]>When it comes to eating healthy, sometimes price may be an obstacle without adequate planning, so we’ve provided some tips on saving money while shopping for a more healthy menu.
Junk food may cost less right now, but the damage it does to your health later can be even more pricy. Eating healthy isn’t as expensive as one thinks when you factor in long-term benefits. Here are a few tips to eat healthy easily and on a budget:-
1. Buy your produce [fruits and vegetables] in season and buy them in bulk when they’re on sale. You’ll easily save a lot of money.
2. Skip the fancy powders and supplements as meal replacements on the regular. Some powders and supplements are surely beneficial in addition to a healthy diet, and once in awhile it’s ok to use them to replace a meal, but to use them often as a meal replacement instead of eating whole foods is not as beneficial to your overall health longterm.
Source Link: Daniela Constantini
3. Consider purchasing frozen or packaged fruits and vegetables. While they may not always taste as good, they’re still edible and much cheaper. After all, what’s a healthy meal without fruits or vegetables?
4. The most effective way to decrease the burden on your wallet is by eating at home. Though it seems trivial initially, eating out constantly can drastically increase your expenditure as it adds up. You don’t have to be a ‘Masterchef’ contestant to cook at home. It just requires a few basic ingredients, garnishes and spices. Then you can have fun making different combinations with your partner or friends.
When you’re cooking at home, make use of bigger portions with inexpensive ingredients [beans, pea, chickpea]. You can use those leftovers for other meals or mix them up for some variety. For example- Stews, stir-fries, salads and burritos.
Source Link: August de Richelieu
5. One big factor in saving at mealtimes is making a meal plan to ensure consistency of savings. The plan doesn’t have to be calculated down to the exact number, but having a basic plan for what you eat during the week can really help you to remain on track and incorporate all the essential requirements for your body.
6. Sometimes less healthy and more expensive foods are strategically placed in the more heavy foot-trafficked areas to catch the customer’s eye. Keep a lookout for these food traps and stay on your mission. You’re welcome :).
7. It’s always a good idea to buy whole foods [In bulk] since they’re less expensive than processed foods. And remember to make use of sales, offers, coupons and vouchers! They’ll be a lot of help.
Source Link: Destiawan Nur Agustra
8. The pandemic forced a lot of us to work from home and order stuff online, including groceries. Believe it or not, this is a blessing in disguise! There are many online grocery portals and retailers that offer fruits and vegetables at affordable rates and deliver them all the way to your doorstep.
You could also download apps on mindful grocery shopping and healthy eating. Many of them even come with meal plans, information on sales and lists to make your job easier.
9. Cravings. The dietary elephant in the room. You could be the biggest fitness freak on the planet, but you’ll still not be immune to the power that your cravings have over you. In fact your hunger pangs might start increasing since you’re not consuming junk food. There’s nothing inherently wrong with longing for a particular dish; it’s just a sign that your body needs nourishment. But buying junk food or going to the grocery store when you’re hungry will throw a wrench in your plans.
For that reason, it would be better if you removed all traces of junk food from your house and social media. Instead replace them with better alternatives, such as: Almonds, walnuts, fruits. If there’s no junk food at home, then you’ll have no choice but to consume the healthier options. But don’t forget to throw in a cheat day, every once in a while.
CLOSING THOUGHTS:
Eating healthy isn’t as expensive or tough as people make it out to be. And it’s well worth it. You can’t be confident or have balanced lifestyle if you don’t treat your body right by eating healthy. Even though junk food results in temporary pleasure, it can’t provide the long term stability or happiness that being healthy does. You can’t control everything in life, but you do have some say in what you consume. And with a little bit of innovation and effort, you’ll soon be eating healthy and getting used to it in no time.
]]>If you’re a New Yorker looking for a quaint little tea room with a warm and delightful ambiance, we recommend Prince Tea House, a Japanese/French fusion style cuisine that’s bound to excite your taste buds. With plans to possibly franchise the business, Prince Tea House has five different locations: Upper East Side of Manhattan, Astoria, Sunset Park, Bensonhurst and Flushing. We visited the Astoria location, and were quite pleased. Cozy yet sophisticated, this tea room is perfect for intimate birthday parties, an afternoon tea with a friend or light dinner with a client that you wish to treat. Prince Tea House has a large assortment of teas, coffees, desserts, and even entrees to leave your palate satisfied, your tummy pleased and your heart full.
Their opening hours vary depending on location, but they typically open at 11am or noon and close at midnight. We decided to go for a light brunch and tasted quite an assortment of items. We started out with their signature tea, the Rose Lover Milk Tea, which is pink and creamy with a rose petal flavor. We also tried their Jasmine Green Tee, equally delicious with that lovely wildflower taste. Their tea is served in custom-made tea pots which are painted with delicate flowers and come to the table on a heated tray with a candle underneath so your teawill stay warm throughout your visit. Other drinks you may like to try include their frozen tea slushies, teas with potted milk foam, or try a drink with Oreo cookie crumbles sprinkled on top! Mmm, tasty. All the drinks look so beautiful when served. You might have a problem choosing just one. We’ve warned you fairly…
For our entree, we tried their their Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise sauce, accompanied by a house salad. Not only is this entree delicious, but it’s also only $10 for two servings on a plate, and quite filling. You could also try their chicken and waffles, with that warm, browned and crispy waft trailing in from the kitchen. Prince Tea House also has an array of sandwiches, salads and appetizers. If you’re up for a dessert, why not try their flaky apple crumble pastry served with vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar? This dessert is more than enough to serve two people. If you want to try something a little more unique for dessert, try their beautiful Purple Yam Mille Crepe Cake. This cake comes in a beautiful lavender hue and also looks great in pictures, for all of your Instagraming needs. Other sweets that might suit your fancy include the Durian Tiramisu or Strawberry Shortcake Parfait. Is your mouth watering yet?
Speaking of pictures, Prince Tea House in Astoria has lovely furnishings, decorations and fixtures that really make the place “pop” with nostalgic charm and elegance. From their potted tree upfront with Christmas lights, to their dangling chandeliers, to their back wall covered in miniature potted plants, not to mention their pleasant and dainty artwork hanging on the walls, you will feel charmed by the atmosphere. You can also grab a potted rose plant or a silver-gilded bird cage from the nearest shelf to use as a centerpiece for your table for an extra whimsical touch to your dining experience. Enjoy the interior’s lavender and gray décor and crisp white walls. If you’re like us, you’ll leave with sweet memories and a new adventure tucked under your belt. Everything here is affordable and your experience will be priceless! We hope you’ll visit Prince Tea House soon, and be as delighted as we were.
Photos by Jeremy Welch
]]>Why not invite a companion and indulge your taste buds for a light lunch or a candlelit dinner in a quaint and intimate ambience? If you are a salad eater, recommended is their avocado pere dish. However, you cannot ignore their Caesar salad, which is so mouth-watering, you might end up eating a second and very large portion for those tender greens and that satiating dressing. I might be speaking from personal experience… but I demure…
Next dish is the entrée. Recommended is the Pescatora Riso Nero, a black rice with seafood, one of their most popular dishes. If you’d like something simpler, try another rice dish with buttery, delicate, and savory textures. You can also try their two different kind of fries. One is rice-based, of course! See which kind you like best. You might enjoy them both. In that case, get more and share with friends, if you have room, that is.
The secret is out: We really do hope you save some room after delighting your palate with smooth, round textures of creamy risotto, because there is more. For dessert, relish in the richness of the chocolate cake, garnished to perfection with mint leaves and delicate berries, satisfying those deeper inner cravings for something decadent.
Your palates will truly feel pampered by the fine details and exquisite delicacies of each dish at Risotteria Melotti. The staff are friendly and light-hearted, and very welcoming. In fact, before walking out the door, maybe chat with the owner and give the Italian language a little fanfare. Shout out your best, “Molto buono!” and “Grazie mille!” Throw a double kiss, “Due baci per te!” The staff will smile and warmly urge you to visit their location in Verona next time you are in Italy, and I’m sure you will heartily acquiesce.
You might find yourself leaving through the door with a little “pep” in your step, full of nutritious goodness and a happy little smile curling up your lip. The light-hearted feeling may even leave a pleasant aftertaste all week, and be warned: You could possibly find yourself craving that delectable Caesar salad, creamy risotto, and brilliant chocolate cake once more.
I won’t be surprised if I see you peeping around the corner anytime again soon, will I? “Ci vedremo presto! “We’ll be seeing each other soon!” 
Let’s toast to Risotteria Melotti!
Cuisine Connoisseur, CEO, and Editor-in-Chief of MITH Magazine
Holly Glasser @mithmagazine @hollyglasser
Photos by Nicholas Borsodi @njb3photo
Photo styling by Maureen Borsodi @thelalook
Cuisine courtesy of Risotteria Melotti www.risotteriamelottinyc.com
]]>By: Jackie Aguirre
I’ve only been to New York once and immediately fell in love with SoHo after staying there for a week. While that does make me a bit biased, I think I speak for many when I say that SoHo is one of Manhattan’s best neighborhoods. The cobblestone streets are lined with vibrantly colored buildings, fashion-forward shops, and incredible restaurants. All of this paired with a decade-old art scene makes for a hip and exciting place. Below are five places I was sure not to miss.
Pietro Nolita, 174 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 1001
I spotted Pietro Nolita on Instagram before making my trip to the city. The all pink décor and pasta heavy menu had me at their doorstop the minute I landed. After snapping a couple of Instagram shots, I made my way downstairs into a diner style room and ordered the Fusilli Al Limone dish and Elisabetta cocktail. I plan to visit for brunch on my next visit.
Café Select, 212 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
Café Select is a Swiss restaurant and hotspot for good food, wine and hip New Yorkers. Relax with a glass of rosé and order the charcuterie, and you may end up rubbing shoulders with a celebrity. The pretty lights and artsy vibe and location make it a local favorite.
Jack’s Wife Freda, 224 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
A friend recommended the American-Mediterranean restaurant, Jack’s Wife Freda for brunch. On the weekends, this place is almost impossible to get into and does not accept reservations. Luckily for me, I was a tourist on a Tuesday morning and was seated right away. Tables are turned quickly here to accommodate the never-ending group of customers waiting outside. Regardless, the service and the food are worth the wait. I ordered the Matcha Latte and Poached Eggs with Grilled Tomato and Haloumi, which ended up being my favorite meal on my entire trip.
What Goes Around Comes Around, 351 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013
What Goes Around Comes Around is a vintage meets high-end fashion paradise. This place is simply the best store in Lower Manhattan for vintage designer clothing and accessories. From a vintage Louis Vuitton bag for $850 to Levi jeans for $170, there’s truly something for everyone here.
Little Cupcake Bakeshop, 30 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
After a red eye flight into New York City, I needed a coffee. What I probably did not need was a cupcake, cinnamon roll and slice of cheesecake to go. This is what happens when you step into Little Cupcake Bakeshop. On the outside, it looks like a posh little coffee shop. When you step inside, you’re met with all the aromas of sweets perfectly showcased behind glass just waiting to be purchased. Oh, and their coffee is great too!
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Get to know Jon in Issue No.5: http://www.mithstore.com/products/mith-issue-no-5-summer-2016-print
Follow Jon!
Website: jonhipp.com
Facebook: JonathanHippensteel
Instagram: @jonhipp
Filmed at Hostel Colours in Milan, Italy
Music by Sanjoy: Lost In My Own World (feat. Brandon Van Duyn) [Album: Dance Under The Influence]
]]>*All photos by Maria Doka photography
1. The Queens Kickshaw
This cozy and rustic coffee shop located in Astoria makes one of the greatest lattes around. Specialty coffee, fancy grilled cheeses, craft beer and cider…Not to mention the greatest lights & wood tables to capture that perfect photo of your coffee for your Instagram.
Website: http://thequeenskickshaw.com/
2. Kinship Coffee
Kinship Coffee welcomes you daily with a cute and uplifting message on their outside chalkboard. This light & airy coffee shop serves great fresh baked pastries and donuts to start your morning, along with awesome Four Barrel Coffee.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/kinshipcoffee/
3. VITE Vinosteria
This charming little location is a gem. VITE is a quaint Italian café and wine bar with the greatest brunch and sangria around. With two former Cipriani employees opening up this spot, you won’t want to miss a visit for a perfect brunch.
Website: http://www.vitevinosteria.com/
4. MOM’S Kitchen & Bar
This Instagram-worthy spot is located in Astoria, which features delicious comfort food. MOM’S is especially known for their Bigmouth milkshakes and all-day brunch-so crazy delicious! They also make a great iced coffee for you caffeine lovers out there!
Website: http://www.momsastoria.com/
5. Gastroteca
This restaurant is one of my favorites to post on Instagram. I love the white brick walls, greenery, and openness. Gastroteca serves an amazing brunch! They even screen old movies on their walls at night, which is pretty darn cool!
Website: http://www.gastrotecaastoria.com/
6. The Bonnie
The Bonnie is known as Queen’s favorite bar, garden, and eatery. This place serves everything Instagram-worthy – from their drinks, food, to their interior. It’s all pretty lovely!
Website: http://www.thebonnie.com/
7. Café Madame SouSou
The most delightful, peaceful and charming of atmospheres, this spot makes you feel like you’re sipping coffee outside a French café, for when when you’re in one of those Parisian moods.
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/madame-sousou-astoria
8. Café 23
Although this place is fairly new, the aesthetic and cold brew is incredible. A small yet great coffee shop in NYC.
9. 60 Beans Kitchen + Coffee
High quality, Instagram-worthy, expertly crafted coffee, tea, and espresso. This place is one where most people flock to. The vibe is awesome, and so is their coffee!
Website: http://www.60beanskitchen.com/
10. NYCB&CH (New York City Bagel & Coffee House)
The best bagels & coffee in New York. This urban-decorated spot offers a great variety of bagels and donuts along with the best iced coffee around… Truly! This spot is great for enjoying a bagel over some coffee with friends or even catching up on those work emails calling.
Website: http://nycbch.com/
What are some of your favorite NYC coffee shops for instagram photos? Let us know in the comments below or on our instagram @mithmagazine!
*All photos by Maria Doka photography
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