The Atlas Room was born from a life spent behind the stick. Our Director of Beverage and Operations, Henry Avila, grew up on the floors of his family's South Beach nightclubs, bar-backing at 16 and managing by 18. From Miami to Hell's Kitchen to the Michelin-starred kitchens of April Bloomfield in New York City, every chapter of Henry's journey left its mark.

"My grandfather dreamed of opening a restaurant in Cuba, and my grandmother was an incredible cook who taught me that flavor is memory and food is connection," says Henry. "That foundation influences everything I build — beverage programs aren't just drinks to me, they're experiences rooted in culture, intention, and story."

Now rooted in Iowa, Henry brings that singular perspective to the Des Moines Metro. The Atlas Room isn't just another bar. In Henry's own words: "It's the culmination of every lesson, every shift, every risk, and every leap of faith along the way."