Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Paolo Beatino. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Paolo, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
For me, creativity is like a living energy—you have to nurture it every day. I keep it alive by constantly being curious: I taste new ingredients, travel, study different cultures, and stay open to inspiration that can come from music, art, or even a simple walk in nature. I see cocktails as stories in liquid form, so I’m always looking for new ways to tell those stories—whether through flavors, aromas, or presentation. Teaching, collaborating with other bartenders, and meeting people from around the world also feed my imagination. Creativity doesn’t stay alive on its own—you have to challenge it, surprise it, and let it surprise you back.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I was born in Alba, in the heart of Piedmont, Italy—a land of wines, truffles, and deep traditions. I actually studied and graduated from Law school, but along the way I discovered that bartending was more than just a job: it became my art and my language. What excites me most is the chance to tell stories through cocktails—connecting history, culture, and emotion in every glass. Each drink is like a small journey: it might take you to the Mediterranean with the flavors of citrus and herbs, or to Latin America with smoky notes of mezcal, or to France with the elegance of Cognac.
Professionally, I divide my time between running Calitaly Cocktail Catering, a company I co-founded in Los Angeles to bring the Italian aperitivo culture and Dolce Vita lifestyle to the U.S., and my work as bar manager at GAF Cambiano, Turin (Italy), where I create seasonal cocktail lists inspired by travel and discovery. What makes my work special is not only the drinks themselves, but the experience—hospitality, storytelling, and the joy of sharing something unique.
Right now, I’m especially excited about expanding Calitaly’s presence in California with more curated events, teaching masterclasses and creating new cocktail lists that allow people to travel the world through flavors.
And personally, this year has been especially meaningful for me: on May 1st, I married the love of my life, and we finally managed to bring our two Akita Inu dogs from Italy to Los Angeles. Building a family here while pursuing my passion makes me feel deeply grateful.
At the heart of it all, I want people to see cocktails not just as drinks, but as an expression of culture, art, and connection.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three things made the biggest difference in my journey.
First, Resilience. This career, like life, has ups and downs. Competitions, long nights, setbacks, new beginnings in new countries—you need the strength to keep going and believe in yourself.
Second, Curiosity. Creativity comes from always asking questions, tasting new things, exploring cultures, and staying open to inspiration. That’s how cocktails become more than recipes—they become stories.
Third, Hospitality. Technique and knowledge are important, but what truly matters is how you make people feel. A cocktail is an experience, and if you can connect with someone through your craft, that’s where the magic happens.
For those at the beginning of their journey, my advice is: don’t rush. Take time to build strong foundations, learn from mentors, travel if you can, and always practice empathy. Skill can be trained, but passion, humility, and curiosity are what will carry you forward.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who values experiences over just products. It’s not only about having great cocktails on the table, but about creating memories and emotions around them. I love working with people who are curious, open to discovery, and willing to let me take them on a journey through flavors and stories.
The best clients are those who trust the creative process—who come with a vision or a mood, and allow me to translate that into something unique. Whether it’s an intimate gathering, a wedding, or a big event, what makes it special is the connection and the willingness to celebrate life with authenticity. For me, an ideal client is someone who wants more than a bar service—they want an experience that feels personal, refined, and unforgettable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pablitothebartender.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pablito_thebartender
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.
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