How to lower waste, reimagine what we discard, and maximize profit through sustainable practices behind the bar.
Luis Pagán is a Puerto Rico-based bartender and the 2018 Diageo World Class Bartender for Puerto Rico, where he represented the island at the global finals in Berlin, Germany. Known for his creativity, cultural pride, and commitment to purposeful bartending, Luis brings a deep passion for sustainability — not as a trend, but as a professional standard that benefits people, the planet, and the bottom line.
Sustainability in the bar world is no longer optional — it is a competitive advantage. In this seminar, Luis Pagán breaks down the practical how-to’s and what-to’s of sustainable bar practices, making the case that reducing waste and rethinking how we operate are not just ethical choices, but smart business decisions that directly improve profitability.
Drawing from real experience behind the bar in Puerto Rico and on the global World Class stage, Luis will guide attendees through concrete techniques and mindset shifts that any bar — from a high-volume venue to a boutique cocktail bar — can implement immediately.
What we call waste is often an opportunity we haven’t recognized yet. The most sustainable bar is also the most profitable one.
Practical techniques to reduce waste across ingredients, prep, and service — starting with the biggest culprits most bars overlook.
How to shift your perspective on what “waste” means — turning citrus peels, leftover syrups, and byproducts into valuable bar assets.
How sustainable practices directly improve your cost-per-cocktail metrics, reduce over-ordering, and increase margin without sacrificing quality.
A toolkit of actionable methods — from batching and sourcing to storage and menu design — that make sustainability a daily practice, not a special project.
An educational session combining practical technique with real-world case examples — designed for bartenders, bar managers, beverage directors, and owners who want to build more responsible and profitable operations. Applicable at any scale, from independent bars to multi-outlet programs.
#StAugustineCocktailFest
After thoughtful planning and conversations with our partners, we’ve rescheduled to April 2026 to deliver an even more elevated experience.
Thank you for your support we’ll see you this spring!
#StAugustineCocktailFest
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