Kate Boushel is a leading figure in the Canadian hospitality scene, best known for her role as partner and director of beverage and education at Groupe Barroco in Montreal. Her commitment to innovation, inclusivity and excellence in the cocktail industry has earned her the prestigious Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award 2024.
Born and raised in Montreal, Kate Boushel embarked on a diverse career path that began in politics and public relations. These experiences provided her with a solid foundation in communication and organizational dynamics, skills she has skillfully applied to the world of hospitality.
Her career in the cocktail industry began with a strong passion for mixology and an unwavering commitment to promoting a conscious, inclusive drinking culture. In 2017, her cocktail The Dominion was named Canada's Next Great Cocktail by EnRoute magazine, highlighting his ability to create innovative drinks that reflect Canada's rich heritage.
In her current role as partner and director of beverage and education for Groupe Barocco, Kate oversees the operations of well-known venues such as Atwater Cocktail Club and Milky Way Cocktail Bar. Her leadership is characterized by an approach that focuses on educating staff and implementing sustainable and inclusive practices within the industry.
Her commitment to promoting equality and representation in the industry was recognized internationally with the award of the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award 2024. This peer-voted award recognizes professionals who have made a significant impact on the bartending community, and Kate's win represents a historic moment as she is the first Canadian to receive this honor. Her professional philosophy is based on the belief that bartenders are not only drink makers, but also educators and agents of social change.
