Lynnette Marrero
Alessandro Scire CalabrisottoShare
Lynnette Marrero is a distinguished figure in the world of mixology, celebrated for her innovative approach to cocktails and her dedication to empowering women in the bartending industry. Her career, spanning over two decades, has been marked by significant contributions to cocktail culture and advocacy for inclusivity within the hospitality sector.
Early Career and Rise in Mixology
Marrero's journey into the world of cocktails began in New York City, where she worked alongside renowned mixologist Julie Reiner at the Flatiron Lounge. Under Reiner's mentorship, Marrero transitioned from a cocktail waitress to a bartender, discovering her passion for the craft. Her talent and dedication quickly propelled her to senior positions at esteemed establishments such as Freemans and Elettaria, where she co-designed the bar program, earning acclaim for her innovative cocktail creations.
Advocacy and Empowerment: Co-Founding Speed Rack
In 2011, Marrero co-founded Speed Rack with fellow bartender Ivy Mix. This all-female speed bartending competition was created to showcase the talents of women in the industry while raising funds for breast cancer research and prevention. Since its inception, Speed Rack has expanded globally, raising over $1.75 million for breast cancer charities and providing a platform for female bartenders to demonstrate their skills and gain recognition in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Educational Contributions and MasterClass
Beyond her work behind the bar, Marrero is committed to education and mentorship. She serves as a MasterClass instructor, teaching mixology alongside Ryan Chetiyawardana. In this role, she shares her expertise with a global audience, covering topics from developing one's palate to building a home bar, thereby making the art of cocktail-making accessible to enthusiasts and aspiring bartenders alike.
Recent Ventures and Collaborations
In recent years, Marrero has continued to innovate within the industry. She collaborated with Jennifer Lopez to develop Delola, a line of ready-to-drink artisanal spritzes, bringing her mixology expertise to a broader consumer market. Additionally, she has been involved in various consulting roles, helping to design cocktail programs that emphasize creativity and quality.
Accolades and Recognition
Marrero's contributions have been widely recognized. She was honored by the James Beard Foundation as one of America's Leading Female Mixologists in 2009 and named Mixologist of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2016. In 2021, she received the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award from The World's 50 Best Bars, acknowledging her influence and mentorship within the global bartending community.
Philosophy and Impact
Central to Marrero's philosophy is a commitment to inclusivity and the elevation of the bartending profession. Through her advocacy, educational efforts, and innovative cocktail creations, she has played a pivotal role in shaping modern cocktail culture. Her dedication to empowering others and her passion for the craft continue to inspire bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.
Lynnette Marrero's career exemplifies the transformative power of passion and advocacy within the hospitality industry. Her ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and excellence have left an indelible mark on the world of mixology.
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