Bartender Jacob Martin Takes the Crown at Diageo World Class
Jacob Martin, a passionate bartender, has made headlines by winning the prestigious Diageo World Class cocktail competition in 2023—a remarkable first entry for him. His journey into the world of mixology has been unique and filled with surprising twists that reflect his vibrant personality.
Martin’s ambition was ignited after receiving encouragement from a former manager. Recognizing that to grow in the bar industry, he needed to participate in competitions, he set his sights high on the Diageo World Class. This competition is known as a global benchmark for bartenders. “I felt that starting with World Class would set the standard for my skills,” he stated.
His background is as unusual as his career path. Born in Toronto, he was involved in musical theatre from a young age, performing in major productions. His love for performing drew him into the spotlight, even singing at baseball games. However, it was a budding crush on a girl at a cheese counter that led him to explore the cheese industry, where he gained impressive knowledge and earned the title of the youngest maître fromage in the Americas by age 22.
Despite his expertise in cheese, a major turning point came when he lost his position following the acquisition of his company. Seeking new opportunities, Martin transitioned into fine dining, eventually discovering his love for bartending while working at a high-end restaurant. He was inspired by a skilled bartender named Jared, who became a mentor to him.
Over the years, Martin’s career took him to various notable venues, including the luxurious St. Regis hotel and Rata in New Zealand. After the pandemic, he co-founded Bar Pompette and now runs Bar Banane, a speakeasy in Toronto that emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients in its cocktails.
In 2023, Martin’s hard work and dedication paid off when he clinched the Diageo World Class title, emerging victorious out of 10,000 global competitors. The final, held in São Paulo, Brazil, required participants to showcase their skills by reinventing classic cocktails and crafting new recipes.
Reflecting on his win, Martin expressed how surreal the experience was, especially when a stranger in a cab recognized him as the "best bartender in the world." The recognition overwhelmed him, proving the impact of his hard work and creativity.
As he looks ahead, Martin is excited about future opportunities, including participating in the upcoming World Class event in Shanghai, which is expected to be one of the largest gatherings yet, celebrating 15 years of this esteemed competition.
