Flavors and Techniques at the Forefront of Summer Cocktail Camp at George & Gather

2026 Summer Cocktail Camp Series Interview with a Mixologist
Jeff Atchison from George & Gather 

George & Gather, a comfortable Chandler hangout joint with a scratch kitchen, has been dishing up meals sans seed oils since 2025. A passion for clean ingredients carries into the cocktail offerings, where every drink is built with an eye on sourcing, quality and intentionality. On June 28, the PHOENIX magazine 2026 Summer Cocktail Camp series heads to the all-day restaurant and hangout spot. We asked manager Jeff Atchison to swing by and fill us in.  

Tell us about the cocktail program at George & Gather 

We want to offer a beverage program that rivals any cocktail bar while remaining seamlessly integrated with our culinary offerings. Every piece is thoughtfully evaluated to ensure it meets our standards; this also means we prioritize spirits that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, responsible production and community impact. 

Explain the path you took to wind up here.  

I originally entered the industry while pursuing a degree in Psychology and Neuroscience, viewing restaurant work as a way to support myself through school. I was eventually promoted into a bartending role, where I discovered a love for both the craft and the guest-focused nature of hospitality. During my time with Fox Restaurant Concepts, I trained through the Court of Master Sommeliers; from there, I joined Buck & Rider and then created Three Thirty Three’s inaugural beverage program. At George & Gather, I’ve had the privilege of growing the cocktail, wine and spirits offerings into a program that reflects both my personal philosophy and the values of the restaurant. 

You’re clearly passionate about cocktails so it’s hard to pick, but do you have a favorite drink on the menu? 

Probably the Strait. It’s our interpretation of a classic whiskey sour, built around unique ingredients like tamarind and quince. It embraces the bright, tart qualities that make a whiskey sour so enjoyable while adding layers of depth and subtle sweetness. The result is a cocktail that feels familiar and approachable, yet distinctly elevated and memorable. 

The heat has started in Phoenix – what’s the first drink you reach for on a summer’s day? 

The first drink I reach for during a Phoenix summer is a margarita, preferably made with either Tequila Corrido or Tequila Ocho Blanco. When temperatures are soaring, it’s hard to beat a well-crafted margarita made with high-quality ingredients. It just feels synonymous with Arizona and complements our climate, our culinary landscape and gathering with friends and family.  

What should guests expect if they’re coming to George & Gather for Cocktail Camp? 

Our goal is not only to serve exceptional cocktails, but to create an environment where guests feel inspired to explore new flavors, techniques, and perspectives on what a cocktail experience can be. Through presentations, guided discussions, and take-home recipe materials, we hope to provide insights that guests can carry with them long after the event concludes.