Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaitlyn Stewart.
Hi Kaitlyn, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Kaitlyn Stewart is an internationally recognized bartender, James Beard-nominated author, and educator based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Originally from Toronto with a background in film, she began her career in hospitality while supporting her university studies. This early experience fostered a profound interest in bartending and hospitality, ultimately guiding her toward a distinguished career in the field.
In 2017, Kaitlyn made history by winning the Diageo World Class competition, surpassing more than 10,000 participants from 55 countries to earn the title of World Class Global Bartender of the Year. She became the first Canadian and only the second woman ever to be honored with this prestigious award.
With close to two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Kaitlyn currently manages her own consulting and recipe development business. Through her digital platform, Like•a•ble Cocktails, she has built an audience of nearly one million followers, offering instructional content, alcohol-free recipes, and advanced insights into bartending techniques. As a respected mentor, Kaitlyn travels internationally to educate industry peers, judge at global competitions, and design innovative beverage programs. She is also the author of the acclaimed cocktail book, Three Cheers.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No road is ever smooth, but all the twists, turns and bumps have brought me to where I am now.
Being a woman in a very male dominated field is a challange on its own. Not being taken seriously, not getting that promotion. But that has always pushed me to work even harder and carve my own path. Now, working for myself as a consultant, recipe developer, writer and content creator, whatever struggles pop up, I have the sole responsibilty to find a new path.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In 2017 I was named the Best Bartender in the World. I was representing Canada in a global cocktail competition called World Class by Diageo Spirits and was competing against 60 other country winners in a series of challanges that lasted a week. I ended up winning that competition taking home the title to Canada for the very first time as well as being only the second woman to do so. Winning that competition really jump started my internatioanl career as a bartender. It allowed me to travel the world judging cocktail competitions, giving seminars and guest bartending at some of the worlds best bars. On top of travelling and connecting with other bartenders, I also operate my own recipe development and consulting business. I recently put out my first cocktail book, Three Cheers, which was nominated this year for a James-Beard Award as well as Spirited Award.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Vancouver is a magical place. There is an amazing blend of cultures which gives the city a beautiful, diverse feeling. The food scene is incredible and the scenary can’t be beat.
If I was to change one thing about Vancouver, it would be the nightlife. Vancouver can be a little bit of a sleepy city, unless it’s the weekend. I wish we had a little more pep in our step every night of the week.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @likeablecocktails
- Facebook: @likeablecocktails
- Youtube: @likeablecocktails
- Other: TikTok – @likeablecocktails
