He Built Cocktail Programs for Some of L.A.’s Biggest Chefs — Now He’s 2026’s Bartender of the Year

Shawn Lickliter has built some of Los Angeles’ best bars, while avoiding the spotlight himself. With the opening of Vandell, it’s his time to shine. Shawn Lickliter, a Los Angeles bartender, has been named 2026’s Bartender of the Year by 2026. He has previously built successful bar programs for some of L.A.’�s biggest chefs, Thomas Keller (Bouchon), and Walter and Margarita Manzke (République, Petty Cash, Bicyclette, and Manzke). Licklit opened his own bar, Vandell, alongside fellow République alum Vay Su, with backing from Michael Francesconi and Matthew Glaser of Park Hospitality. The stylish cocktail bar was built specifically for the California-chill neighborhood of Los Feliz and landed at No. 68 on the extended list of North America’’S 50 Best Bars.

gepubliceerd : 8 uur geleden door in Lifestyle

Shawn Lickliter is, by his own admission, a shy person. The Los Angeles–based bartender can easily turn on the charm for a room full of guests but has never been comfortable promoting himself or chasi... [4594 symbols]

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