Our Team

Elina Malkin

General Manager, IL, MN, & WI

Elina Malkin is a seasoned bartender, bar manager, and dynamic wine and spirits educator with over 20 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry. Known for her expertise in both classic and contemporary mixology, Elina has worked across high-volume craft venues, nightclubs, music venues, and neighborhood bars. She is also passionate about beverage education, offering training and workshops to bar teams, industry groups, and consumers.

With a strong foundation in small business management, she has successfully operated her own LLCs, managed bar operations, and worked on event promotion and management for bars and hospitality businesses.

Elina’s commitment to the community is evident in her leadership roles within the United States Bartenders Guild and her active participation in initiatives focused on advocating for and uplifting the wellbeing of workers in the restaurant industry.

Elina leverages her in-depth knowledge of spirits production, mixology, and menu development to build market presence for craft spirits. Elina has also made significant contributions to nonprofit organizations, such as the Pittsburgh Restaurant Workers Aid and the Night Life Line Planning Committee, which provided essential support to hospitality workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. With an MFA from the University of Pennsylvania and multiple certifications in wine and spirits education, Elina continues to drive positive change and innovation in the hospitality industry.