From Bartender to Industry Leader: John Cleaver on Hospitality, Sacrifice, & SpeedRailz ATX Finals

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Few people in Austin represent the hospitality journey as fully as John Cleaver. With more than 20 years of industry experience, John has worked his way up from door guy to barback, bartender, manager, and now co-owner of Cabana Club, one of Austin’s most dynamic multi-use venues.

In this interview, John shares why he left corporate America to commit fully to hospitality, the sacrifices and risks that come with ownership, and the lessons he’s learned leading teams and opening bars. He emphasizes the importance of leading by example — never being above the “dirty jobs” — and how respect is built through consistency, humility, and care for staff.

John also reflects on the unique character of Austin’s bar scene: the “keep it weird” vibe that creates camaraderie behind the bar and carries over to patrons. From working in Houston and College Station to building Cabana Club alongside partners with diverse strengths, his perspective is rooted in both local pride and broad experience.

As a judge for the SpeedRailz Austin Craft Cocktail Finals, John explains how he’ll evaluate competitors: focusing on balance, presentation, and whether a cocktail resonates with the average guest rather than just catering to industry insiders. His story provides both inspiration and practical insights for bartenders considering their next step, whether entering competitions, managing, or even taking the leap into ownership.

Key Takeaways / Highlights
• John’s 20+ year journey from barback to co-owner of Cabana Club
• Why he left corporate life to pursue hospitality full-time
• The leap from management to ownership — risks, rewards, and sacrifices
• Why leading by example earns staff respect and loyalty
• The unique “Austin vibe” and why it can’t be replicated elsewhere
• His judging approach for SpeedRailz: balance, accessibility, and presentation
• Insights on building strong partnerships in bar ownership