Bartender Feature: Bésame
A combined 60 years of experience guide the bar program at Bésame in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and it shows. Everything from the cocktails and the menu to the decor and the setting are so on point, and we’re tickled that the menu features Montanya rum. In this bartender feature, we meet two of the inspiring minds behind a classic Steamboat menu: Natasha Krefft, General Manager, and Rena Day, Cocktail Curator.
Natasha Krefft General Manager, 16 Years of Experience Rena Day Cocktail Curator, 20 Years of Experience
A Local Favorite with Global Charm
Bésame has the charm of an old Spanish veranda complete with over head twinkle lights and Latin music softly playing in the background. Warm, rich colors and plush bar seats make this one of Steamboat's favorite places to enjoy a cocktail either after a shift or on our days off. We love the sense of family and community we have here. Whether you come in for a simple Mojito or a complex 'lifted' cocktail, we will have a drink for you.
A Whole Lot of Experience
What sets our bar program apart is our dedication to the small details. Whether it is finding the perfect glassware or garnish, all of our drinks have that special touch to set it apart. That attention comes from a combined 60 years of experience between our owner, general manager and bar manager on what makes cocktails pop! Rena is also a pro at making non-alcoholic yet complex cocktails for those who don't wish to imbibe.
On Trying Something New
If someone is looking to branch out and try a new cocktail, they should always remember that our bartenders have been doing this for a long time and love the process of guiding a guest through our favorite cocktails. Our bartender Rena loves to experiment and wow people with her cocktails. This is our passion and we are very proud of the cocktails we make, so let us make something you have never had before. If you don't know what you want, just ask, we will find something to satisfy every palette!
Cocktail Nerds
Both Rena and Natasha have been obsessing over "Liquid Intelligence" by Dave Arnold. It is a complex read but for cocktail nerds we cannot get enough. Even though we may never use half of the exciting ideas in his book, we look to experiment in our own ways. All of our bartenders stay current on new trends in order to elevate the guests’ bar experience. We love to blend new over-the-top ideas with solid traditional cocktails.
Bésame Lunch Menu
Posole Tacos
Tipsy Carrot Margarita
On Featuring Montanya Rum
We love to showcase locally run businesses, so Montanya Platino Rum, with its smooth and not too sweet flavor, is perfect for our incredibly popular Mojitos, flavored with guava, mango, or passion fruit should you choose.
Besame's classic Mojito
1.5 oz. Montanya platino rum
Fresh picked mint to taste
.5 oz lime
1 teaspoon sugar
.5 oz simple syrup
Take a tall Collins glass and muddle the sugar and mint together. Add Montanya Platino rum, lime, simple syrup and shake with ice. Top off the glass with ice and top with soda water. Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig for the perfect light and refreshing cocktail.
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