ACRA Member Luncheon

Lynnette Marrero is widely considered a trailblazing force in the world of mixology and a champion for inclusivity and innovation in the hospitality industry. Her career began behind the bar at NYC’s iconic Flatiron Lounge, where she discovered her passion for the craft. From there, she shaped her path through restaurant bar programs like Freemans, consulted on hospitality concepts.

Marrero is the Liquid Creative Director for Aplós, a functional non-alcoholic spirits company, where she leads the development of thoughtful, elevated drinking experiences. She is also the Beverage Director for the Raizado Festival, an annual celebration of Latinx culture and innovation, where she curates beverage experiences rooted in heritage and community.

In 2025, Marrero was honored with the Bar & Restaurant Expo’s Industry Impact Award (Industry Game Changer), recognizing her ongoing contributions to shaping a more inclusive and forward-thinking beverage industry.

A fierce advocate for equity and representation, she co-founded Speed Rack, a global cocktail competition that highlights and empowers women+ bartenders. Her philanthropic efforts have earned her the inaugural Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award for Philanthropy, and she continues to uplift the next generation of leaders through education and mentorship.

Marrero is currently preparing to open her first bar, Milly’s, in Brooklyn in Spring 2025—a personal and creative milestone in her journey as a hospitality visionary.

Over her career, she has helmed the bar programs at award-winning restaurants including Llama Inn and Llama San, where she served as Bar Director for over six years. Her program at Llama San was a semi-finalist for the James Beard Foundation’s Best Restaurant Bar Program in 2022 and a Spirited Awards Regional Honoree the same year.

Marrero’s accolades include:

• JBFA America’s Leading Female Mixologists (2009)
• Food & Wine & Fortune’s Most Innovative Women in Food & Drink (2015)
• Wine Enthusiast’s Mixologist of the Year (2016)
• Spirited Awards World’s Best Bar Mentor (2019)
• 50 Best Bars Altos Bartender’s Bartender (2021)
• Drinks International Bar World 100 honoree (2019–2024)

In 2023, In partnership with Jennifer Lopez, Marrero co-created Delola, a line of world-class, ready-to-enjoy cocktails  inspired by global flavors and crafted for ease and elegance.

Lynnette launched the Mixology course on MasterClass.com . She has also served as a national brand mixologist for Perrier and San Pellegrino, and Zacapa Rum

A visionary, mentor, and tireless advocate, Lynnette Marrero continues to redefine what leadership and creativity look like in the beverage world.