In 2018, Punch launched the Bartender in Residence (BIR) program with a easy mission: Elevate and amplify rising expertise within the bartending neighborhood via a mix of editorial protection, social media, reside occasions and extra. Since its inception, we’ve produced over two dozen occasions and spotlighted greater than 40 bartenders who’ve gone on to create their very own applications, advocate for a extra inclusive trade and launch a wide range of nonprofits, all whereas producing impressed unique cocktails.
In 2023, we reimagined this system and gave it a brand new identify, Greatest New Bartenders, to higher seize how the sequence has advanced—from an intimate takeover of our workplace take a look at bar for the New York commerce neighborhood to an editorial franchise with nationwide attain, and a rising household of alumni who’re defining the way forward for bartending.
We are actually looking out for the Greatest New Bartenders of 2025, these gifted people who’re shifting drink tradition ahead, each behind the bar and past it. Does this sound like somebody you understand? Nominate them! Does this sound such as you? Nominate your self! Apply by April 28, 2025.