Darcy S. O'Neil was born in Sarnia, Ontario (Canada) and spent many of those years living near the beach. A cold Canadian beach, but a beach none-the-less. After high school, the decision of a career choice was whittled down to chemistry or the culinary arts. Chemistry was the winner. At the time it seemed logical that laboratory skills were more transferable to the kitchen than cooking skills to the lab. Four years later he received his diploma in chemistry.
After a six year stint working in a world class petroleum research facility, the time for change arrived, via a downsizing notice. After a couple of false starts in the pharmaceutical and information technology worlds, the possibility of going to chef school returned. During a period of quite contemplation, and a few drinks, Darcy was whacked with an epiphany stick and the marriage of chemistry and bartending dawned upon him.
With a little research into the world of mixology, and a completely stocked home bar, that rivalled many restaurants, and irritated his wife with all the clutter, the fusion of science and art began. As he rifled through the classic drinks and modern interpretations plus the occasional vile concoction the chemistry skills started to refine the art. A whole new world of experimental flavours opened up in a way that satisfied his experimental curiosity and his culinary cravings. A bartender was born.
With this new found knowledge, Darcy set about looking for a place to apply these skills. His optimism was soon dashed when he discovered that very few, if any, local bars shared his passion for fine drinks. Darcy bided his time, learned the ropes, while trying to make the best of a poor situation. At every opportunity he attempted to make a poor cocktail better, and eventually people started to notice. Most bar managers lacked Darcys vision, even though customers approved. This would lead to a string of resignations, and on a couple of occasions, outright termination.
As Darcy moved from bar to bar, he decided to take a part-time lab position, in a research centre at the University of Western Ontario.
Darcy is currently self-employed in the drinks industry, and can still be found behind the bar occasionally. He also spends his time writing about all things drink related on his website, Art of Drink (www.artofdrink.com).