Mike Ryan serves as a Corporate Beverage Director for Acurio International, the foremost global restaurant company specializing in Peruvian cuisine, and for many years a leader in the promotion of Pisco and an innovator in its use.

Most recently, he served as the National Director of Bars at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, where he was instrumental in shaping the beverage identity of dozens of unique restaurants within the company. Mike’s oversees Acurio’s global beverage program across all locations in the USA, LATAM, Europe, and the Middle East including the La Mar brand, Tanta, Yakumanka and new concept Jarana. 

He is also responsible for developing new and exciting beverage offerings, creating training programs for staff, implementing organizational systems, and ensuring that all locations are upholding Acurio International’s high standards for quality and service.

Acurio International, a subsidiary of Acurio Restaurantes of acclaimed chef Gastón Acurio, oversees the design, development, and management of multiple restaurant concepts, striving to deliver Gastón Acurio’s company vision; to introduce the culinary flavors of Peruvian cuisine to the world’s gastronomic stage. Launched in the United States in 2008 with the opening of La Mar Cocina Peruana in San Francisco, Acurio International has since opened restaurants in Chicago, Miami, and internationally in Barcelona, Dubai, Doha, and more. Its latest brand, Jarana, aims to introduce approachable Peruvian cuisine to the heart of America. A subsidiary of Acurio Restaurantes with headquarters in Lima, Peru, Acurio International and Acurio Restaurantes have collectively created more than a dozen restaurant brands and operate over 70 venues in 10 countries throughout North and South America, Europe, and the Middle East.

Mike is considered to be one of the most important spirits buyer in US drinks market.

About Bartender Spirits Awards

The Bartender Spirits Awards aims to identify and celebrate the best spirits for the on-premise sector in the U.S. Under the tagline, "Judged By Bartenders, Bar Managers, and Buyers For The On-Premise Industry," the competition provides a platform for spirits brands to gain recognition in this highly competitive market.

The goal is to offer independent and honest reviews for spirits brands targeting the U.S. bar trade. The judging panel is made up of renowned bartenders, bar managers, and buyers with deep expertise in the on-premise industry. This makes the competition an essential resource for bartenders, bar managers, and bar owners when making purchasing decisions for their venues.

The Bartender Spirits Awards recognizes that bartenders are the true influencers in the spirits industry. Their tastes and trends often drive the creation of new drinks, and their recommendations help guide consumer choices. By understanding the preferences of bartenders and bar managers, spirits brands can position themselves more effectively in the U.S. market.

Why Enter the Bartender Spirits Awards?

Winning at the Bartender Spirits Awards gives brands a competitive edge by elevating their profile in the U.S. on-premise sector. This competition is a trusted source of reference for the industry’s decision-makers, and the recognition gained here can open doors to new partnerships and opportunities.

Submissions for the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards are now open, with a Super Early Bird pricing of just $175 per spirits available until October 31, 2024. This is an excellent opportunity for distilleries to showcase their products to a global audience and receive valuable feedback from industry experts. Enter your spirits now to secure your place in the competition and take the first step towards international acclaim.

Both international and domestic wine submissions are now open. International wineries without U.S. importers will receive assistance with shipping and obtaining COLA waivers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your brand and connect with key decision-makers in the wine industry.