January 9th – 11th: Discover the Caribbean’s largest Agave Festival

AUDREY HANDS - Fónico y Rayo

With nearly two decades in hospitality, Audrey Hands brings a passion for advocacy and brand building that spans three continents. Born in London to French and English parents, Hands graduated from King’s College London with a degree in Hispanic and Portuguese studies, becoming fluent in five languages—French, Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Italian. In 2005, Hands began her career in hospitality, working in various roles across kitchens, dining rooms, and bars. But it was behind the bar where Hands truly found her calling, mastering her craft at some of the world’s most renowned cocktail destinations, from London’s legendary Trailer Happiness to Sydney’s Palmer & Co, and later Mexico City’s Maison Artemisia. In 2014, Hands made a pivotal shift into brand marketing, taking on the role of Global Brand Ambassador for Havana Club. She traveled the world, working with 70 countries to drive meaningful brand growth. By 2016, Audrey’s pursuit of balance led her to become a certified Vinyasa yoga instructor, integrating mental and physical well-being into her already dynamic career. Now, Hands brings her expertise and commitment to championing Mexican hospitality to Rayo Cocktail Bar and Fonico Restaurant in her role as Head of Strategic Partnerships and Guest Experiences.

BILLY MALDONADO - Fónico y Rayo

Billy Maldonado is Executive Chef at Rayo cocktail bar and Fonico restaurant. Born in Mexico and raised in Los Angeles, Maldonado always knew he wanted to be a chef. He pursued cooking school after high-school, landing a role in the culinary team at Disney upon graduating. From there, Maldonado moved to Spain, where he was enthralled by the country's fine dining scene. "It was the food, the technique, the experience, how they managed the team and trained the people," he says. "I told myself, this is the direction I want to move in." Maldonado honed his skills at a restaurant in Madrid, before moving back to the United States to work at The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges in New York City. Maldonado's playful and creative style has seen him cook at some of the most lauded fine-dining establishments in the country, including The French Laundry in Napa, and Le Cirque in Las Vegas. Now, at Fonico, Maldonado offers an innovative take on Mexico's Sonora and Baja California regions. The seasonally changing menu heroes sustainably-caught seafood and local produce, showcasing traditional flavors through a modern lens. Maldonado describes his cooking as honest, and plays on his personal cravings in a fun and interesting way. Maldonado's favorite ingredient to experiment with is chillies. "There is a misconception that they're only hot, but they bring amazing, deep flavors, too."

JULIO BERMEJO - Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant

Julio Bermejo is a globally recognized tequila expert and advocate for 100% agave spirits. Based in San Francisco, he is the driving force behind Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, a family-owned institution renowned for its extensive tequila selection and educational approach to agave spirits. Julio’s passion for tequila emerged in the 1990s when he sought to elevate its reputation from a party drink to a sophisticated spirit. He championed 100% agave tequila, emphasizing its craftsmanship and cultural significance. His innovation, the Tommy's Margarita, replaced triple sec with agave nectar, creating a cocktail that highlights tequila’s natural flavors.

As the Official Ambassador of Tequila to the United States, a title granted by the Mexican National Tequila Chamber, Julio has traveled the world educating others about tequila's rich heritage. His work has inspired bartenders and enthusiasts alike to appreciate the spirit’s depth and artistry. Through Tommy’s, Julio has made lasting contributions to the tequila industry, fostering a global appreciation for Mexico’s iconic spirit.

CARLOS LONDOÑO - Café Pacifico

Originally from Medellín, Colombia, Carlos is the Co-General Manager and Co-Owner of Café Pacifico, a celebrated establishment with a 43-year legacy. With 26 years of experience, Carlos has played a pivotal role in introducing tequila to the UK market, collaborating with the late Tomas Estes, the European Tequila Ambassador. He has worked with organizations such as the Mexican Embassy and Mexican Chamber of Commerce, leading events like the Annual Tequila Fair and Café Pacifico’s Tequila Season, which introduced over 250,000 people to tequila.

Carlos is a former Brand Ambassador for Cava de Don Agustin, Maracame, and Ocho Tequila and a shareholder in the Ocho brand. At Café Pacifico, he leads agave training programs, earning certification from the Tequila Regulatory Council of Mexico. Carlos serves as Chairman of the International Spirits Challenge, overseeing top agave spirit selections. His team has won multiple awards, including Best Margarita in London (2017-2023) and Best Cocktail at Cocktails in the City.

Dedicated to giving back, Carlos is establishing the Corazón de Agave Foundation to honor Tomas Estes. He plans to launch El Pandillo Tequila in 2025 and celebrates Café Pacifico’s recognition as Tales of the Cocktail’s Timeless International Bar of 2024.

VICTOR GARIBAY - Fónico y Rayo

Víctor Garibay is the founder and creative visionary behind Fónico y Rayo, a studio specializing in sound design and immersive audiovisual experiences. With over a decade of experience, Víctor is known for blending cutting-edge technology with emotional depth, crafting evocative soundscapes for film, advertising, live installations, and digital media.

Inspired by the rhythms of nature and urban environments, Víctor’s work seamlessly fuses organic and synthesized elements, earning him collaborations with major brands, independent filmmakers, and experimental artists. His innovative approach makes Fónico y Rayo a leader in transformative storytelling. Beyond his studio work, Víctor is passionate about education and mentorship, empowering emerging creators to explore the evolving landscape of sound and design. Through his artistry, Víctor continues to push boundaries and inspire connection.

EDDIE HEINTZ - Director of Hospitality & Author

Born in the Midwestern United States, Eddie Heintz fell in love with the great outdoors and bartending in equal measure. Moving to San Francisco in 1985, he established himself in “The City’s” restaurants as an effective fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants manager. After more than a decade managing some of San Francisco’s top restaurants he began to grow restless. An opportunity on the Big Island of Hawaii enabled him to practice and fine-tune his passion: embracing great hospitality as a lifestyle. Four years later and armed with the spirit of Aloha, he returned to the mainland, where he engaged with staff and guests in restaurants, resorts, wineries, and as an instructor at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. He is currently practicing his style of hospitality at Caymus Vineyards in Napa, California. Eddie is the author of “Making Welcome: Enriching Life and Business with Hospitality.