Welcome!
I'm Val and I'm absolutely thrilled to be able to share my cocktail exploration with you all! Hailing from Eastern Europe, hospitality is simply in my blood. There are few things I love more than creating something delicious and unexpected for my loved ones and inspiring them to try their hand at it as well.
Ratios are fun (I'm an actuary by day) but ratios that make everyone buzzed and happy are even better. The biggest cocktail flaws boil down to ratios that did not allow for a balance of flavors. This is why endless experimentation (and tasting) is necessary to create an unforgettably wonderful beverage.
Most people think mixology is a form of magic that will never be attainable to them. I'm here to remove that misconception by providing you with the foundation and inspiration to start experimenting with cocktails for yourself. To help me help you, let me know what you found useful, how your own take on my recipes turned out and what you'd like to see on this site in the future. If you'd like to collaborate and are interested in the services I offer, check out the Work with Me page.
Photo by Alexandria Odekirk Photography
Awards & Press
2017 Mixt&pe Cocktail Competition Chicago Semifinalist
2019 Chicago Empress G & Tea Competition Winner
Photos by Richard Shilkus Photograpy