When Lost Worlds Charlotte opens its doors in March to thirsty guests in Midtown, there’ll be more to explore on the menu beyond craft beer. Keeping our brewers focused on an extensive line-up of exceptional beers, we leaned on an expert with just as much passion for her craft of developing cocktail programs.

Enter Yashira “Yoshi” Mejia, representing a small number of women leading bar programs in the Queen City. She moved to Charlotte in 2013, quickly working her way up the food and beverage ladder. She went to bartending school and spent time actively networking with well-known local mixologists including Bob Peters and Amanda Britton, who she credits as mentors. Yoshi started consulting in 2019 and began curating her own events – pop-ups that showcased her creativity in collaboration with area artists. This caught the attention of local restaurants and Queen City Nerve, who named her Charlotte Bartender of the Year, as chosen by a distinguished panel of judges. But it’s her energy that sets her apart. She brings a different perspective to the mix which grants Yoshi the opportunity to do what she loves — create cocktails, teach, and create new experiences for guests.

We sat down just weeks from opening Lost Worlds’ second location along the Little Sugar Creek Greenway to get a read on what to expect from the cocktail menu that explores flavors from around the world.

Describe your creative process when crafting cocktails …

It starts with hearing the client's thoughts and ideas and really getting an understanding of the goals and the overall brand. I put a lot of research into creating something that’s unique while staying true to the theme. From there, I get to work to determine execution. At times, I find that client's will provide guidelines and suggestion and the attention to details is what helps the creative process.

When creating the cocktail menu for Lost Worlds what inspired you? How do you strike a balance between flavors and spirits?

I looked into my personal past travels as that keeps the theme of adventure and travel to the forefront. Ideas and flavor pairings come to mind, then I experiment. Sometimes, keeping it simple is key. Simply by listening to what the community wants; direct, non complicated cocktails that are balanced and presented beautifully. There is a bit of research and development that happens prior, getting ideas from paper into a glass. Of course, it has to something that we can consistently execute and that we can all be proud to serve.

How do you make sure your cocktails are memorable?

A well balanced cocktail with consistent execution is the foundation of any cocktail worth remembering. A drink that weaves a story and includes ingredients that stretch creative boundaries makes not just the cocktail memorable, but the whole entertainment experience - right down to the bartender who made it.

What are a few ingredients you think are underutilized or trending in cocktails right now?

Underutilized; savory components and herbal/vegetal and exotic ingredients. As for what's trending for 2024; spicy cocktails, low or no ABV, drinks; sustainable/local support, and Tequila!

Can you give us a sneak peek at what’s on the Lost Worlds menu?

I can share that overall, this menu will surprise and delight the guests. One of the drinks I’m excited about is the Welcome Punch. It’s crafted to embrace the adventure of going somewhere. You want a drink to transport you and have layers of flavors. The Welcome Punch has medley of rums, and is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of exotic juices and hibiscus grenadine. It’s Lost Worlds way of welcoming guests!

Also, with our amazing craft beer selections, we will have a fully stocked bar, so if it's not on the menu, an Adventure Guide will be able to pour what the guests would like.

Can you share an experience that that you're most proud of?

I'm proud of my first ever Cocktail Program. I had to prove to others what I already knew I could do. Knowing my worth and having to showcase my abilities in this creative space, I gained experience, learned lessons, and proved my worth that guides me to this day.

Archaeology and Mixology Collide! Meet Yoshi, Creator of the New Cocktail Program at Lost Worlds' Charlotte