Today we’d like to introduce you to Dominique Jackson
Hi Dominique, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Bartending started as more than just a job for me—it was the beauty behind the bar that drew me in. Watching skilled bartenders create something both visually stunning and full of flavor sparked something in me. My actual start, though, was at a hookah lounge in Akron, Ohio, where I learned to blend tobacco flavors. That’s where I got my first taste of crafting experiences for people. As I mixed different blends, I also learned the basics of bartending, and it became clear that this was something I wanted to pursue further, and I wanted to expand my understanding.
So I moved to Arizona in the Summer of 2020 (great timing), and I waited patiently for the service industry to open back up in the desert. Once the ball started rolling again, I dove in head first into the Phoenix community to learn more about what bartending means to the people on the West Coast. Since then, I’ve gotten to create cocktails for the Super Bowl, travel the world to bartend, and motivate bartenders that we’re more than “just a bartender.” We are here to motivate, create, and educate for the future of hospitality professionals.
I currently reside in San Diego, California where I tend bar at an Asian focused concept, and I’m currently working on bringing more meaningful and intentional events to the Convoy area for guests and anyone in the service industry.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being a woman behind the bar comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s not always the glamorous picture people might imagine. There’s a constant need to prove yourself in a space that has been historically male-dominated. Some customers will doubt your skill or knowledge just because you’re a woman, and you may be overlooked for opportunities despite being just as—if not more—qualified.
There’s also the added pressure of dealing with unwanted attention. For many women bartenders, comments about your appearance or inappropriate advances are part of the daily routine. Navigating these situations while maintaining professionalism can be exhausting. You have to constantly balance being approachable without inviting harassment, friendly but not too friendly.
While it’s an uphill battle, there’s also a sense of pride in breaking down these barriers. More and more, women are making their mark, earning respect, and pushing for inclusivity in the industry. It takes resilience, confidence, and a deep passion for the work, but it’s worth it to carve out a place behind the bar.
In another aspect as an Asian American woman behind the bar, there’s an added layer of complexity in providing representation in an industry where we’re often underrepresented. You don’t always see many faces like mine behind the bar, and that makes it all the more important to be visible, to show that we belong here too. There’s a sense of responsibility to break stereotypes and challenge the norms that exist in both bartending and broader society.
Being a part of the Asian American community, I understand the cultural pressures that sometimes discourage non-traditional career paths, especially those in the hospitality industry. There’s often an expectation to follow more conventional routes, but by being behind the bar, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions, whatever they may be. Representation matters, and by standing in this space, I want to show that bartending is a craft and an art that we, too, can excel in and redefine.
At the same time, it’s rewarding to bring a piece of my culture into the drinks I craft—whether it’s incorporating Asian flavors, spirits, or even just sharing stories with customers. It’s about creating connections and using bartending as a way to build bridges between cultures. Being an Asian American bartender isn’t just about making drinks; it’s about expanding what people think is possible, both for myself and for those who come after me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m currently bartending in the Convoy District at 52 Remedies, but it’s been a wild ride getting here. I’ve had the chance to bartend all across the States and even in South Korea and Mexico, which has shaped the way I approach my craft. I’m all about creating intentional experiences—whether through cocktails or just the atmosphere behind the bar—because I believe bartending is so much more than just making drinks. It’s about uplifting people and the community around you.
What I’m most proud of is the space I’ve been able to create for others to rise and shine in their own craft. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching someone grow and seeing them own their skills. Training new bartenders and showing them how much of an impact they can have, not just at the bar but in the world, has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey.
What really sets me apart, though, is my willingness to fail. I take risks, and I’m not afraid to fall flat on my face because I know that’s how you push the boundaries. I’ve been let down, and I’ve let myself down more times than I can count, but that’s never stopped me from moving forward and exploring what’s possible in this field. It’s all part of the process, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Growing up, instead of the typical summer vacations to the beach, my parents would save up every four years to take my sister and me to the Philippines, where we’d stay for a month. Those trips were eye-opening for me as a kid. Being immersed in a different culture and lifestyle was incredibly humbling and shaped the way I view the world. It wasn’t just about visiting family; it was about understanding a different pace of life, seeing both the beauty and the challenges in a place that’s deeply connected to my roots. Those experiences taught me a lot about gratitude and perspective, which still influence how I approach my work and life today.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: DrinkingWithDom
Image Credits
Stephen Kurpinksy, Nader Abushhab, James Tran
