The Diageo World Class Lebanon 2026 competition reached its grand finale on June 30, 2026. It brought together Lebanon’s top mixologists in a showcase of creativity, precision and innovation. World Class is widely regarded as a leading hospitality industry cocktail competition. It continues to highlight Lebanon’s strong bartending scene. It also supports the next generation of beverage professionals.
The 2026 edition began with 19 bartenders competing for a place on the global stage. Over several months, participants faced demanding challenges. These tested creativity, technical skill, product knowledge and performance under pressure. The competition gradually narrowed the field to a Top 6. Each finalist showed consistency, originality and strong technical ability.
Elevating Diageo’s luxury brands
One key challenge required cocktails using Diageo’s Reserve portfolio. This included Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray No. TEN Gin and Johnnie Walker. Competitors combined global mixology techniques with modern beverage trends. They created signature serves reflecting both precision and personal style.
World Class Cocktail Festival engages consumers
Diageo extended the experience through the World Class Cocktail Festival. Bartenders took over selected venues across Lebanon. Guests discovered exclusive cocktails crafted for each venue. They also experienced the storytelling behind each serve. The activations strengthened connections between bartenders and consumers. They also celebrated Lebanon’s vibrant cocktail culture.
Mentorship builds tomorrow’s champions
A dedicated Mentorship Day prepared finalists for the national stage. The Top 6 worked with respected industry mentors. They refined cocktail concepts and exchanged creative ideas. They also built confidence and performance mindset. Former World Class Lebanon Champion and Bartender at Indie Beirut, Jad Ballout, joined the session. He shared insights on creativity, precision and innovation in bartending.
More than a competition
World Class emphasizes collaboration as much as competition. Bartenders supported each other throughout the journey. They shared knowledge and encouraged creativity. This helped raise professional standards across Lebanon’s hospitality industry. It also strengthened a strong sense of community.
Industry voices
“Lebanon has a strong hospitality culture with exceptional talent behind every bar,” said Antoinette Drumm, MD at Diageo Eastern Europe Middle East. “There is incredible creativity, generosity and talent behind the bars and we’re proud to bring World Class back to Lebanon. A platform that celebrates bartenders, supports their development and shines a spotlight on the very best of Lebanese bartending.”
Joe Atik, head of Levant at Diageo, said “World Class is about much more than finding a winner. It creates opportunities for bartenders to learn from one another, share ideas and continue growing together. Bringing together emerging and experienced talent helps strengthen the Lebanese bar community and inspires the next generation of hospitality professionals”
Meet the Top 6 finalists
Six bartenders reached the national final after months of competition.
- Mary Raffoul, bartender at Ivis Beirut and Olea Beirut.
- Nour Chams, bartender at Awkword Beirut and NP Ten Beirut.
- Rabih Zaitouna, bartender at Jive Beirut.
- Pascal Haiby, bartender at Lucy Lu Beirut.
- Simon Obeji, bartender at Cyrano Beirut, Le Coin de l’Apéro, Gemmayze, Beirut.
- Jeff, bartender at The Terrible Prince Beirut.
Industry experts judge the competition
A panel of hospitality and beverage experts evaluated the finalists. They ensured international standards were maintained throughout the competition.
The judging panel included Michael Saab, Food and Cocktail Content Creator based in Lebanon.
- Walid Merhi, beverage specialist based in Lebanon.
- Christina Khater, founder and CEO of Kristhse Lab based in Lebanon.
- Elie Elias, group beverage manager based in Lebanon.
- Jenna Ba, brand curator for Johnnie Walker, Diageo Middle East based in Lebanon.
Meet the 2026 champion
The 2026 title was awarded to Simon Obeji, bartender at Cyrano Beirut, Le Coin de l’Apéro in Gemmayze, Beirut. He is known for creativity, precision and modern mixology techniques. Obaji has built a reputation for refined cocktails and premium spirits execution. He consistently delivers elevated guest experiences.
Representing Lebanon on the global stage
Winning the national title grants entry to the World Class Global Finals. There, champions from more than 50 countries compete. Lebanon has a strong history of global representation. Past finalists include Jad Ballout, World Class Lebanon Champion 2013 and bartender at Indie Beirut. Refaat Ghostin, World Class Lebanon Finalist 2015 and bartender based in Lebanon. Kevin Haddad, World Class Lebanon Finalist 2016 and Bartender based in Lebanon. Mike Kassabian, World Class Lebanon Finalist 2017 and bartender based in Lebanon. Following his win, Obeji will represent Lebanon at the upcoming World Class Global Finals. He will compete against the world’s leading bartenders.
Raising the bar for Lebanese mixology
The finale marked months of dedication, learning and innovation. World Class Lebanon 2026 reaffirmed its commitment to education and creativity. As Obeji prepares for the global stage, the competition continues to elevate local talent. It also strengthens Lebanon’s position in global cocktail culture.
