Todd Thrasher Instagram Location: Washington, D.C. Todd Thrasher is the founder of Potomac Distillery and Thrasher's Rum. For over a decade, the barman and sommelier-turned-distiller was at the forefront of the artisanal cocktail movement in D.C. and Virginia, operating such popular spots as the speakeasy PX in Old Town. His work has received national recognition in publications such as The New York Times, Food & Wine, and others. Experience Native Virginian Todd Thrasher got his start tending bar at Carlyle Grand in Arlington after the regular bartender failed to show up for work one day. Armed with a copy of Mr. Boston's, he dove in and worked his way through Dupont Circle’s Gabriel and the Hard Rock Café before landing at Café Atlantico, which was helmed by chef José Andrés. The chef gave Thrasher the confidence to push the creative envelope. Thrasher also began learning about wine, earning his certification with the Court of Master Sommeliers. He spent the next 15 years leaving his mark on the dining and bar scene, collaborating with restauranteurs Meshelle and Cathal Armstrong on concepts such as Eamonn’s A Dublin Chipper, Hummingbird, Society Fair, and PX. In 2018, Thrasher launched his urban distillery, which produces Thrasher’s Rum and houses his award-winning Polynesian-style neighborhood tavern, Tiki TNT, which was named one of Esquire's Best Bars in America in 2021. About Food & Wine Food & Wine, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning online resource for anyone passionate about the culinary world. With rigorously tested recipes and the most trusted restaurant, drinks, culinary travel and home coverage, we inspire and empower people everywhere to discover, create, and devour the best in food and wine. Learn more about us and our editorial process.