Mixologist

Chris Scanlon brings creativity, curiosity, and a love for creating memorable experiences behind the bar at Lewes Oyster House and The Gallo Room. His journey into cocktails started right here in Lewes, bartending across the canal at Wheelhouse before moving into his first bar manager role at Tiki Jac’s in Rehoboth.

It was during his time at Bodhi Kitchen that Chris discovered his passion for craft cocktails and the creative process behind building a drink. Today, he brings that same curiosity and imagination to the bar programs at Lewes Oyster House and The Gallo Room.

For Chris, creating a cocktail is where creativity, flavor, and storytelling come together.

“I was always into art growing up and cooking has been a hobby of mine the past few years, so it’s a perfect blend of both.”

That approach can be seen throughout his cocktail creations, from experimenting with unexpected flavors to finding inspiration in familiar memories. Recently, nostalgia has been a big influence, including a margarita inspired by the flavors of a Mountain Dew Baja Blast and an upcoming cocktail featuring Fruity Pebbles cereal milk.

“I like being able to bring people back to that time when they were younger.”

For Chris, a great bar experience is about more than the drink itself. It’s about creating a place where guests feel comfortable, welcomed, and connected.

“When you’re able to make that connection at the bar, that’s the more fulfilling part of the job.”

At The Gallo Room, Chris looks to match the cocktail program with the space itself, creating drinks that reflect the room’s intimate, moody atmosphere.

“When you step into The Gallo Room, you’re taken into a dimly lit, moody room with an ambiance you can’t find anywhere else in Lewes. I want our cocktails to also represent that.”

Before cocktails, Chris spent more than five years playing semi-professional rugby.

When he’s not behind the bar, you’ll find him at the gym or enjoying time at the beach or pool.

The cocktail he’s most proud of?
“Kissed by Hibiscus,” The Gallo Room’s Luxe Margarita.