Chris Patino was beloved in the bar world. This was evident during his final public appearance at the most recent Bartender’s Weekend, the San Diego-based trade event he co-founded. It was technically an event for Teremana, the tequila he helped develop through his brand-building company Simple Serve. The moment Patino arrived, the packed crowd within Swan Bar’s cozy neighborhood confines burst into joyful tear-streaked whooping, giving way to rhythmic chants of “Patino! Patino!” in a sing-song meter usually reserved for superstar athletes. It was bittersweet.
Patino passed away on Friday, October 18 after a four-year battle with pancreatic cancer. His extensive list of achievements confirms his stamp on the bar industry. Patino was a frequent host of the popular cocktail competition Speed Rack, a World’s 50 Best Bar judge, and partner of San Diego bar Raised by Wolves. He was also an award-winning brand ambassador and mentor largely credited with building New …