ANDREW GRENZ

Beverage Director at Rules & Regs, Fairmont Austin

A rare native of McKinney, Texas, Grenz’s passion for cocktails and beverages was first sparked when he found himself working behind the bar at the age of 18 years old. His early years working in restaurants gave him an appreciation for cocktail creation, and fueled his passion for learning everything he could about spirits and flavor combinations.

BORN: Texas, USA

CURRENTLY: Rules & Regs, Fairmont Austin

Grenz is well-immersed in the Austin beverage scene. He started his Austin career at the Italian spot Tony C's, where he worked his way up to Bar Manager, expanding his knowledge operationally as well as assisting with curating the wine program. Grenz then landed a gig as a Bartender at one of Austin's hottest restaurant's, Qui, where he later became Bar Manager, working under award-winning Chef Paul Qui. Grenz worked his way to Beverage Director and General Manager of Kuneho, where he was hailed as a 2017 finalist of the “Official Drink of Austin” for his clarified Horchata Milk Punch Cocktail.

BACKGROUND

Joining the Fairmont Austin team in the fall of 2017, Grenz took the helm of the beverage direction for all of Fairmont Austin’s five bars and restaurants. Working with the hotel’s Food & Beverage leadership, Grenz supported the pre-opening efforts and sourced top bartenders from all around Texas. During his time at Fairmont Austin, Grenz has been honored to receive a number of accolades and recognitions, including being nominated as a 2018 “Official Drink of Austin” finalist for his second year, being nominated by CultureMap Austin as a 2018 Bartender of the Year Tastemaker, as well as being selected as a finalist for Garrison Brother’s 2019 Bourbon Brawl.

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