CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2025 GRAN CORAMINO BARTENDER OF THE YEAR
JOEWELL MCKENZIE
STAY TUNED
For more on Joewell and applications to enter the 2026 Coramino Cup
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
After concluding its third year, Gran Coramino Tequila, in partnership with Chilled Magazine, is proud to celebrate ‘The Coramino Cup’ – the one-of-a-kind bartender competition that celebrates and shines a light on the hustlers of nightlife and high-energy spots that often go under-appreciated but are known by their peers as the hardest working folks on the floor.
JOEWELL
MCKENZIE
THE 2025 GRAN CORAMINO BARTENDER OF THE YEAR
Joewell McKenzie, bartender at Orchard City Kitchen in Campbell, California, hails from the East Side of San Jose, where his passion for hard work and hospitality first took root. He began his career at Maggiano’s Little Italy, starting in carry-out before quickly finding his home behind the bar.
A three-time Camp Runamok alumnus and two-time Varsity Leader at Portland Cocktail Week, McKenzie has established himself as a dedicated craftsman and respected member of the bartending community. His work reflects a commitment to growth, creativity, and the meaningful connections forged through hospitality.
“My friends and family give me strength—they’re the ones who inspire me the most,” McKenzie shares. “I love creating experiences people can enjoy. To me, life is measured in moments, and in the lives we touch along the way.”
THE 2024 GRAN CORAMINO BARTENDER OF THE YEAR: BUD SHAW
Barrymore “Bud” Shaw started work as a cashier at Buffalo Wild Wings, was promoted to bartender within a year, and hasn’t looked back since. Bud has now accumulated over a decade of bartending experience throughout the Arizona area and currently resides in Phoenix. Bud’s passion for learning and improving his craft extends beyond the bar to behind the decks, where he shares an equal affinity for DJing.
THE 2023 GRAN CORAMINO BARTENDER OF THE YEAR: CHAI LEE
Chai Lee, our inaugural Gran Coramino Bartender of the Year, has had the pleasure of bartending at exclusive members-only clubs, hidden speakeasies, chic rooftop bars, laid-back lounges, and bustling high-volume nightclubs. Today, Chai resides in Washington DC and boasts over a decade of industry experience.
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