The Punch Room, the Uptown cocktail bar on the 15^th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, has a new face behind the bar. The hotel announced the hiring of Kelly Crawford from The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota, Florida, where he was lead bartender at Jack Dusty. Crawford’s title at The Punch Room is Creative Director of Beverage Operations.

Crawford replaces Ryan Nolen, who took over behind the bar last fall. After opening in in 2015, The Punch Room gained a reputation as one of the best cocktail bars in town thanks to local mixologist Bob Peters’ tenure there. Peters’ departure last summer, however, meant his loyal following of regulars no longer sought out seats at The Punch Room.

Crawford got his start in the hospitality industry at age 13 working as a dishwasher and busboy. While The Punch Room’s menu maintains its signature punch selection, Crawford has imprinted his style onto the menu. He enjoys using carbonation, foams, and exotic fruits in his drinks, such as the Hazelnuts for Bubbles shaken cocktail offering, made with Reyka vodka, hazelnut, kiwi, lemon, and bubbles.

Cocktails at The Punch Room range from $18 to $22. —Kristen Wile