Kate Chernoff on Winning World Class, Telling Stories Through Cocktails & Representing Canada

In this episode, Shawn Soole sits down with Kate Chernoff — the newly crowned World Class Canada Bartender of the Year 2025, based out of Keefer Bar in Vancouver. A bartender with a natural gift for hospitality, story-driven craft, and competitive fire, Kate takes us through her ascent, her philosophy behind every shift, and how she’s representing Canada on the the global stage.

What You’ll Learn

• Kate’s journey from student to bartender, and how she discovered a passion for the craft.

• How competitions shaped her style and voice behind the bar—technical skill, storytelling, creativity.

• Her winning approach in challenges that include flair, flavour, and sustainable thinking.

• How she infuses hospitality with heart — making guests feel seen and welcomed.

• Live Q&A on performing under pressure, preparing for global finals, and staying true to her roots while growing publicly.

Timestamp Highlights (Estimated)

• 00:02:30 – Kate’s early days behind the bar and what drove her into competition.

• 00:14:00 – Behind the scenes of her winning performance at World Class Canada.

• 00:28:00 – Balancing creativity, technique, and sustainability in cocktail development.

• 00:42:00 – Live Q&A: lessons from competition, and moving into global finals.

• 00:58:00+ – What’s next: representing Canada, refining her craft, and mentoring others.

🎯 Who It’s For

Bartenders, hospitality leaders, competition hopefuls, and anyone wanting to see how passion + technique + narrative can lead to national recognition — and beyond.

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