In the world of high-end New York City events, cocktails are more than a party staple. They’re part of the show. Today’s mixologists are artists, performers, and brand storytellers rolled into one. The best ones aren’t just pouring drinks. They’re crafting experiences that align with your event’s identity and leave lasting impressions.
Whether you’re producing a rooftop gala, an immersive product launch, or an invite only networking night, collaborating with the right mixologist can elevate the entire vibe. Here are several NYC based cocktail creatives who are rewriting the rulebook on what a drink can be, and how it can make your event unforgettable.
1. Masa Urushido–Katana Kitten
A Japanese American fusion cocktail bar ranked among the world’s best, Katana Kitten is helmed by Masa Urushido, a legend in both hospitality and liquid art. Masa brings precision, minimalism, and storytelling to every cocktail. He blends Japanese technique with NYC flair.
If your event calls for sophistication, ceremony, or a signature highball that doubles as conversation starter, Masa’s style can bring unexpected elegance to your VIP lounge or executive dinner.
2. Pam WiznitzerCreative Consultant & Industry Educator
Pam Wiznitzer is not just a mixologist, she’s a strategist, educator, and creative force in beverage development. She’s worked with companies like the Big Apple Circus and The Lookup and is known for her high level attention to narrative and guest experience.
Pam is perfect for planners looking to co-create custom menus that reflect brand personality, guest demographics, or even the event’s seasonal theme. Whether it’s a press launch or wellness forward tasting, Pam’s approach to “drinkable storytelling” hits the mark.
3. Frank Caiafa
Frank Caiafa, former bar manager at The Waldorf Astoria’s legendary Peacock Alley, brings a deep respect for cocktail history, alongside modern interpretations that still feel luxe. He even wrote a book on it: The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book
Want to add a touch of Gatsby era glamour to your next awards night or donor dinner? Frank creates drinks that feel like time travel with just enough edge to keep things fresh and New York cool.
4. Lynnette Marrero–Co Founder of Speed Rack & MasterClass Star
Lynnette Marrero is a trailblazer, not just for her world class cocktails but for how she uplifts the entire industry. Co-founder of Speed Rack (a competition that spotlights women in bartending), Lynnette blends activism, artistry, and showmanship.
For brands looking to infuse values like empowerment, inclusion, and creativity into their event design, Lynnette is a dynamic partner. Her attention to both palate and message makes every cocktail an extension of your mission.
5. Jeremy Oertel
A master of balance and unexpected pairings, Jeremy Oertel’s work at places like Donna and Death & Co. has earned him a reputation for sustainable innovation. Think clarified cocktails with no garnish waste, or syrups made from leftover fruit pulp.
Booking Jeremy or a similarly minded mixologist is ideal for eco conscious events, especially in industries like fashion, tech, or design. Guests won’t just be sipping, they’ll be inspired.
6. Julie Reiner–Queen of NYC Cocktail Culture
Julie Reiner helped define the craft cocktail movement in New York. She’s the mind behind Clover Club and Leyenda, and the mentor of countless bartenders who now run their own acclaimed bars. Her drinks are layered, seasonal, and always crowd pleasing.
If you want timeless class with a bit of tropical influence (Julie’s Hawaiian roots show through), she’s a dream collaborator. She also understands flow, service timing, and how to scale drinks without sacrificing quality.
7. Garrett Richard–The Tiki Futurist
Garrett Richard’s playful, high concept drinks might include everything from foams to fire. Known for his modern take on tiki culture, he creates cocktails that surprise and delight.
For nightlife activations, influencer events, or immersive brand experiences, Garrett’s “liquid theater” approach can become a core part of the show. Imagine a cocktail with three sensory stages, or a drink that glows under blacklight. Yes, he does that.
8. Nico de Soto
Nico de Soto is a French mixologist who brings global travel to every menu. His Lower East Side bar, Mace, was named one of the world’s best for its spice inspired cocktails. Expect turmeric infusions, Japanese umeshu, or smoked spices layered with mezcal.
Nico’s team can design globally-inspired drinks to reflect your guest demographic or event theme. For multicultural events, international brands, or experiences tied to travel, music, or fashion, he’s a match made in mixology heaven.
9. Jelani Johnson
Jelani Johnson is part of NYC’s rising class of theatrical mixologists who understand Gen Z attention spans and Instagram aesthetics. With a background in music and fashion, Jelani builds drinks that don’t just taste good, they stop people mid-scroll.
His style is ideal for PR events, product launches, or pop ups where social media content is currency. Think cocktails with color-changing effects, branded garnish art, and videos that rack up views as fast as RSVPs
Let the Bar Do the Talking
In today’s competitive event scene, you can’t afford to serve “just drinks.” Attendees crave meaning, visuals, storytelling, and cocktails are one of the few elements that hit all those marks in one sip. NYC’s elite mixologists are more than bartenders, they’re experienced architects who align flavor with feeling, and strategy with style.
Whether you want to spark nostalgia, drive engagement, or make a bold brand statement, the right cocktail partner helps you do it one drink at a time.
Ready to Elevate Your Event Beverage Game
Join us at The Event Planner Expo and discover even more NYC based mixologists, experiential beverage vendors, and creative bar ideas that will leave your guests raving. From craft cocktails to immersive drink stations, we’re serving up inspiration that’ll raise the bar, literally.
Reserve your spot to exhibit now and sip your way to standout events.
