The 2023 World Class U.S. Bartender of the Year: Renato Tonelli
Renato Tonelli got his start in the hospitality industry working globally in Rome before broadening and perfecting his craft in Brussels, Melbourne, and eventually returning to New York City where he was born and raised. With a growing passion for sustainability practices, Tonelli is best known for his love of developing unique and delicious recipes that upcycle food waste.
Demonstrating unparalleled hospitality and creativity, Tonelli showcased a skilled and thoughtful approach to the prestigious competition, earning the honor of representing the U.S. at the Global Finals in Sāo Paolo, Brazil this fall. Hosted in Austin, TX, the World Class US Finals took place at a combined event where the best bartenders across the country first competed in three challenges over two days.
Earth Day Cocktails and Industry Sustainability Efforts
With a passion for sustainability practices, Tonelli is best known for his love of developing unique and delicious recipes that upcycle food waste. Renato Tonelli was a standout talent, demonstrating that passion and determination for the trade can truly lead to success.
Since the region's carbon footprint plan was enacted in 2003, the CO2 emissions generated by each bottle of Champagne have been cut by 20 percent. All Ilegal Mezcal bottles will now be made by a family-run company that recycles 10,000 tons of glass each year at its facility in Jalisco, Mexico.
