Charles Hardwick is a New York City–born mixologist and hospitality strategist with over 30 years of experience shaping cocktail culture at the highest levels. His career spans legendary institutions including The Odeon, the Waldorf Astoria New York, the Surf Lodge, and Mulberry Project Tulum—environments where precision, creativity, and guest experience are inseparable.
A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Charles brings an artist’s eye to beverage creation and a veteran operator’s understanding of scale, systems, and service. His work sits at the intersection of storytelling, craftsmanship, and cultural relevance, translating brand values into liquid form with clarity and intention.
Charles has trained extensively with some of the most prominent figures in modern cocktail history, including Dale Degroff and the late Sasha Petraske, He has consulted on more than 14 spirit brand launches and acquisitions and most recently founded the comprehensive drinks strategy and corporate cocktail vision for LVMH’s Moët Hennessy division. His leadership drove national menu placements, elevated brand visibility, and standout activations at Formula One, Essence Fest, and Tales of the Cocktail.
His work has been featured in The New York Times, Esquire, Vogue, The New Yorker, and Travel + Leisure, with the Times selecting him to curate its landmark cocktail tutorial for NYT Cooking. Today, Charles partners with brands, venues, and teams seeking distinction, relevance, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Photo courtesy of Gary He, Eater NY