With over 16 years of experience in the bar and restaurant industry, Nick Matio’s passion for mixology began long before it became a profession. Starting as a bar-back in his teens, he learned the industry from the ground up, mastering everything from equipment setup and bar design to high-volume service and custom cocktail development. That hands-on foundation shaped his deep understanding of both the creative and operational sides of hospitality. For Nick, great cocktails aren’t just about flavor, they’re about flow, efficiency, cost control, guest experience, consistency, and the subtle details that turn a bar into a destination.

Since 2014, Nick has led the bar program at C3 Bloomington as Bar Manager, where he oversees everything from concept development and handcrafted seasonal cocktail menus to hiring, training, and maintaining exceptional service standards. Known for consistently achieving industry-low liquor and bar cost averages, he brings a rare balance of creativity and financial precision. He has competed in and won multiple local and national cocktail competitions, developed and bottled his own Tiki Rum in collaboration with Cardinal Spirits, and launched a successful guest bartending program that fosters community, education, and collaboration within the industry. Nick is widely respected for his meticulous craft, quick wit, and ability to create not just drinks, but experiences that keep guests coming back.

Whether developing a new bar concept, engineering a custom cocktail menu, training staff to elevate service standards, analyzing costs to optimize performance, or executing private events and weddings, Nick brings intention and expertise to every project. From full-scale bar program launches to personalized cocktail experiences, Mixed By Matio delivers thoughtfully designed, seamlessly executed bar and beverage solutions tailored to each client’s vision.