In this blog, we dive into the world of Chicago’s leading bartenders, the creative minds shaking up the city’s vibrant cocktail scene. These bartenders are more than just drink makers; they’re artists who blend tradition with innovation, crafting experiences that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.
Whether you’re in the mood for a timeless classic or eager to try something new, these standout bartenders are the ones shaping Chicago’s reputation as a top destination for exceptional drinks. Get ready to discover the talent behind the bars that are defining the Windy City’s nightlife.

Paul McGee

Since starting at 19 with Wolfgang Puck’s group, Paul McGee has made waves in the bartending world. After moving to Chicago in 2008, his talent quickly caught the attention of top publications like the Chicago Tribune and Eater. McGee’s unique ability to master both traditional and tiki styles sets him apart. As the beverage director for Land and Sea Dept., he oversees the cocktail programs at the Chicago Athletic Association’s bars and the famed tiki spot, Lost Lake. His 2013 launch of Three Dots and a Dash revived tiki culture in Chicago with a fresh, minimalist twist.

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Mark Gallagher

Mark Gallagher, a beloved sommelier and mixologist from Chicago, is currently the Wine Ambassador at Vignobles Sullivan in Chicago, brings a blend of charm and expertise to his role, especially with wines like Chateau Gaby and Chateau Moya. Before his focus on wine, Mark made a name for himself as a skilled Mixologist at Feast & Imbibe. With over three years of experience, he crafted inventive cocktails and created a lively atmosphere that kept customers coming back for more. His expertise earned him a spot as a judge at the 2024 Bartender Spirits Awards, showcasing his deep knowledge of mixology.

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Charles Joly

Charles Joly, a global bartending champion and James Beard Award-winning beverage designer, is a driving force in the craft cocktail movement. With over 20 years in hospitality, he’s played a key role in modernizing cocktails. Now in his fifth year crafting signature drinks for the Oscars and Emmys, Charles is a go-to expert for outlets like People, E!, and The Today Show, known for his refined palate, creativity, and no-nonsense hosting style.

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Scott LoBianco

Scott LoBianco, a Chicago native, has been hooked on the hospitality world since age 13. His passion for cooking shines through in his cocktails. Starting at GT Fish and Oyster, he found mentors who shaped his path. After honing his skills at The Berkshire Room and various Wicker Park bars, LoBianco joined Bar Lab to launch Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago, where he now leads as Bar Manager.

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Liz Pearce

Liz Pearce started in a dive bar in Fargo before moving to Minneapolis to dive into the cocktail scene. Her journey brought her to Chicago's The Aviary with Grant Achatz and later to The Drawing Room as Master Mixologist, where she impressed celebrities and politicians. Liz also honed her wine skills at Purple Pig and is pursuing her Level II sommelier certification. With back-to-back Speed Rack wins and numerous accolades, she’s a true cocktail star.

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Julia Momosé

Julia Momosé, the creative force behind Chicago's acclaimed Kumiko, has made waves in the cocktail world with her innovative approach to Japanese-inspired drinks. Her work has garnered significant recognition, including a feature in Time magazine, praise from Food & Wine, and the prestigious Chicago Exceptional Cocktails Award from the Michelin Guide in 2022.

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Kristina Magro

Kristina Magro’s bartending journey started at 19 when she covered a shift for a friend's uncle and turned a slow night into a sales record. From there, she made her mark at various Chicago suburbs bars before moving to the city. Working alongside Rising Stars Matt Eisler and Kevin Heisner, Magro gained experience at Pub Royale Tavern, Queen Mary, Sportsman’s Club, and Estero.

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Lance Bowman

Lance Bowman brings 31 years of bartending experience, starting in Cincinnati where he made Japp's Since 1879 a top bar in Esquire's "Best Bars in America." After moving to Chicago, he led beverage programs at Yusho and other Matthias Merges ventures, then crafted the award-winning Alderman bar. Now, as a beverage director for Somos Hospitality and a sought-after consultant, Lance shares his passion for spirits and cocktails with both large audiences and individual guests.

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Jarmel Doss

Jarmel started bartending to support her biochemistry studies and fell in love with the hospitality scene. After joining the Alinea group in 2015 and becoming Assistant Bar Director in 2017, she won the inaugural Chicago STARS Mixology competition with her "What's Sap With That?" cocktail. She was also recognized as one of the top 30 bartenders by the US Bartenders Guild in 2024.

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Danny Shapiro

Danny Shapiro landed in Chicago in 2009, trading a career in comedy writing for a passion for mixology. After honing his skills under Brandon Wise at Perennial, he moved to The Whistler. Now a head bartender and partner at Scofflaw, Shapiro approaches his craft with boundless enthusiasm and deep knowledge. He also judged the Bartenders Spirits Awards in 2024. Just be prepared for a deep dive into cocktail lore if you ask him about the drink you’re enjoying!

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Chicago’s cocktail game is on fire, thanks to these top-notch bartenders. They’re shaking, stirring, and serving up magic in every glass. If you’re on the hunt for extraordinary drinks and unforgettable experiencesNext time you’re out, look for their names—you’re in for a treat!