Bewitched by Brujas
A conversation with Daniel Leal, aka Cherry who heads the team
Hi Cherry, how did you get your nickname?
Since high school my friends started calling me like that. That name stayed on all my social networks, and from then on everyone began to know me as Cherry.
That signature smile
How did you enter the world of bartending and how long have you been doing it?
When I studied my degree (bachelor in tourism) I studied gastronomy and drinks. From there, .I began to like the subject of the bar and the creation of cocktails and spirits. After graduating I took a cocktail course and started working in different restaurants and bars. I have been a bartender for 6 years.
How long have you been with Brujas?
I have been in Brujas for 2 and a half years. Full of learning and personal and professional growth!
Las Brujas means “The Witches”, can you explain the bar’s concept?
Mainly the name "Brujas" was born as a reference to the building where it is located. The building is known as the witches' building. Another reason is because of the concept of the bar, the cocktails are inspired by Mexican herbalism and medicinal plants and herbs that Mexican shamans and our grandmothers used to cure diseases of all kinds. Even heart ailments. It is also an important part of history. It is the story of Barbara Guerrero "Pachita" one of the famous Mexican shamans who lived in this building.
What is the herbal cocktail you are most proud of?
Cherry behind the stick
For me it is a cocktail on the menu called "a very easy death" inspired by Simone de Beauvoir. Its ingredients are: Hypnotic liqueur, Tío Pepe sherry, and a purple lemon balm. Purple lemon balm helps cure stomach pain and the flu.
Your bar is 100% staffed by women. How is it different working in a bar with all females?
The truth is, sometimes it is a little difficult, we are all very different, sometimes we don't agree on many things, and other times someone has a bad day. But in the end, we are also a very nice team, a support system, a safe place. We are setting an example that an all-women team can successfully lead a bar.
Do your clients tend to be more women than men?
No. I think our clients are a good mix.
top 50 North America
You are number 47 on Top 50 bars of North America and Mexico is featuring prominently on the top 50 lists. Why do you think that is?
I think it's because of the concepts. The places, the stories, obviously the cocktails. And we are at a turning point in the Mexican cocktail industry.
You won the 2023 Speed Rack competition in Mexico, tell me about the experience.
For me it was a unique and unforgettable experience. I prepared a lot and studied a lot for my competition. It was the first time I participated and I didn't think I would win. I enjoyed it to the fullest, I met many people and friends. The goal of the contest, to help a breast cancer foundation, is magnificent!
and the winner is…..
What new doors opened to you after the competition?
Mainly meeting a lot of people and bartenders. I have had the opportunity for many people to become interested in my work, get to know me more, and have even asked me for help and advice to register this year. It’s great!
What do you like to do on your downtime?
In dance attire
I like to dance. Since I was a child I have taken dance classes. Ballet. Contemporary and aerial dance. And now I'm into folk dance. I like going to the movies, going out to eat, seeing new places!
Do you think you will ever open your own bar?
Yeah! Definitely.. One of my dreams is to have something of my own or be a partner in a project. Either a bar or a brand!
5 questions for Cherry
1. One magical power you possess?
They say I make very good martinis! That must be a great power (laughs)
2. A magical person alive or dead you would like to have a drink with?
With my uncle! Definitely!
3. A secret herbal remedy of yours?
Tequila with lemon and honey for cough and sore throat! It never fails!
4. Are you working on a future project?
Not yet, but I already have several ideas that I would like to get started on!
5. If you could wave a magic wand to fix one thing in the world it would be….
Violence. War. Above all, gender violence!!
Well said, Cherry. Thank you.