Alexis Ortega Named 2026 U.S. Bartender of the Year at World Class Finals in Chicago

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and World Class have named Alexis Ortega of Philadelphia as the 2026 U.S. Bartender of the Year. The announcement followed the World Class U.S. National Finals, held at Navy Pier from May 11–13.

The competition brought together 15 finalists from across the United States for a series of in-person challenges designed to evaluate cocktail preparation, technical skill, and performance. Ortega was selected as the winner after advancing through multiple rounds, including a final stage featuring additional challenges.

During the competition, participants created a vodka-based cocktail reflecting their background, developed a coffee cocktail using coffee liqueur, and completed a timed round preparing multiple cocktails. The top five competitors advanced to a final round, where they completed additional challenges using tequila and gin before the winner was selected.

Ortega will represent the United States at the World Class Global Finals in Scotland, where competitors from more than 50 countries are expected to participate.

“World Class challenged me in all the best ways, pushing me to think on my feet, trust my instincts and bring my perspective as a storyteller behind the bar,” Ortega said. “I’m grateful for the community of peers who want to see you grow and succeed. Representing the U.S. at the Global Finals is an incredible honor.”

Event organizers said the competition reflects an ongoing partnership between the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and Diageo focused on bartender development and industry opportunities. “The level of talent on display this year reflects the strength of the U.S. bartending community,” said Erin Creighton, director of marketing for on-premise at Diageo. “This year also marked our first season working alongside the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation to support professional growth and create opportunities for bartenders.”