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Bartender Spirits Awards

Bartender Spirits Awards
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Cesar Perez II

Lead Bartender at The Apothecary Lounge

Originally from the bordertown of El Paso TX, Cesar recently transplanted to Chicago as The Apothecary Lounge lead bartender and brought his Chuceño “Cocktails with Culture” to the Midwest. With 16 years behind the bar and mutiple national cocktail competition wins, his understanding of flavor and balance is a wonderful addition to the Midwest cocktail scene. Cesar specializes in Mexican ingredients and ties in the stories of his family and culture in many of his signature serves.

Meet our Judges

David Leon jr

Award Winning Bartender, Spirits Specialist & Founder of Plátano

Alexis Ortega

2026 World Class US Bartender of the Year in the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Charles Steadman

Director of Food & Beverage Experience and Strategic Partnerships at Virgin Voyages