Jorge Vargas Baquedano

Bar Manager

Jorge's journey in mixology began in the heart of a Palo Alto Mediterranean restaurant, where mentorship ignited his passion for the art of beverage craft. Now serving as Bar Manager for both Amara and RASA, he brings a distinctive dual philosophy to cocktail creation: evoking nostalgia while delivering multisensory experiences that transport guests—whether across the Mediterranean at Amara or through the bold, spice-laden landscapes of Southern India at RASA.

A World Class competition participant, Jorge seamlessly blends traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. His signature creation, ‘Armonia,’ exemplifies this fusion—a harmonious blend of beets and tarragon crowned with mascarpone foam, embodying the Mediterranean spirit in every sip. At RASA, his approach takes on a vibrant new dimension, crafting cocktails that complement the restaurant’s deep, complex spices and layered flavors, ensuring the beverage program is as dynamic and expressive as the cuisine.

Drawing inspiration from seasonal farmers' markets and guided by the principle "what grows together, goes together,"Jorge collaborates closely with both culinary teams to create a cohesive, immersive dining experience. His commitment to zero-waste practices and sustainable sourcing reflects both environmental consciousness and creative ingenuity. A lifelong learner inspired by industry pioneers like Simone Caporale and Julie Reiner, Jorge continues to push the boundaries of Mediterranean and Indian-inspired mixology, ensuring that every sip tells a story.