Kevin Demers

Kevin Demers' culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in visionary disruption and community-centric experience creation. He is driven by a desire to challenge the conventional boundaries of the beverage industry, refusing to confine it to a "specific box" for a "specific type of person." This ethos translates into crafting unique environments, such as The Coldroom, where the goal extends beyond serving drinks to fostering "convivial gathering of substantial—and potentially—life altering conversations," ultimately creating an "entire subculture." His commitment to community is further evidenced by initiatives like Miracle Montreal, which donates half its earnings to charity, and his vision for the Montréal Cocktail Fest, which aims to be an inclusive celebration of cocktail culture accessible to "Mr. and Mrs. Everyone." Demers places immense value on the holistic customer journey, often referring to it as the "a to z" experience. From the moment a patron leaves their vehicle to their departure, every detail must be "completely on point." This meticulous attention ensures that the ambiance, service, and product seamlessly contribute to an unforgettable and positive memory, emphasizing that even the smallest external factor can impact the overall perception of the establishment. This extends to personal interactions, believing the connection between client and service professional to be a "dying art" that he actively revives, as seen in The Coldroom's doorbell entry system designed for intimate greetings. Furthermore, his philosophy is heavily influenced by his background in storytelling and personal growth. Demers views each space as a "never ending movie scene," meticulously weaving historical narratives and themes into his establishments, whether it's The Coldroom's nod to Old Montreal's past or Parliament's celebration of Canadian multiculturalism. He champions investment in oneself and the development of staff, believing that the hospitality industry should offer clear paths for advancement, from busboy to owner. This dedication to fostering talent and creating an "open environment" for aspiring professionals underscores his commitment not only to exceptional experiences for guests but also to a thriving, respectful, and evolving industry culture. Kevin Demers' signature approach is centered on crafting "high concept cocktails" within uniquely themed, experience-driven venues. Technically, he is known for sophisticated mixology, often incorporating historical ingredients like shrubs (fruit-based vinegar) to replace traditional syrups, creating drinks with balanced sweetness and complex flavor profiles. Examples include his Manhattan spin-off, featuring apple-blood orange vinegar, herbs, whiskey, vermouth, and orange bitters, and the bittersweet Black Garden, which combines suze and cynar with orange juice, lime, and elderflower. His establishments prioritize an immersive atmosphere; The Coldroom, for instance, is a hidden speakeasy accessed via a doorbell, designed to foster intimate conversations in a dark, warm, and industrial-chic setting. Food offerings are curated to complement the bar's identity, such as The Coldroom's charcuterie, cheese, and marinades, and El Pequeño's Miami-inspired Cubano sandwich.