Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
Timeline
Awards & Accolades
References
Awards & Accolades
References
Generic
Lou Charbonneau

Lou Charbonneau

Boston,MA

Summary

Lou Charbonneau is a seasoned Beverage Director with over 15 years of experience shaping Boston’s bar scene through innovative cocktail programs and operational leadership. Lou has consulted internationally, training bartenders and developing standout beverage concepts rooted in creativity and precision.

He is the visionary behind Hecate, Boston's most celebrated cocktail bar. Since its inception, Lou has led its evolution—crafting the physical menus, drinks, and artwork that define the bar’s distinctive aesthetic, and garnering global acclaim. His work reflects a deep dedication not only to design and flavor, but also to cultivating culture: mentoring and educating teams to thrive, grow, and elevate the industry as a whole.

Lou brings a unique perspective to hospitality — blending artistry, science, and human connection. He is deeply passionate about fostering healthy, supportive environments that empower staff to succeed and innovate within the industry.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Beverage Director

Xenia Greek Hospitality
Boston , MA
11.2021 - Current

Hecate - Boston

Bar Vlaha - Brookline

Krasi - Boston

Kaia - Boston

  • Developed beverage programs and curated spirits lists for multiple venues.
  • Created cocktail menus aligned with each venue's unique concept.
  • Managed purchasing of spirits, beer, and wine across all locations.
  • Maintained beverage costs below 15% through strategic inventory management.
  • Oversaw weekly prep and ordering schedules for all venues.
  • Established strong vendor relationships to ensure consistent quality supply.
  • Recruited and trained employees on service standards and techniques.
  • Conducted regular training sessions on spirits, techniques, and service excellence.

Beverage Director

Committee
Boston , MA
07.2017 - 05.2023
  • Designed innovative cocktail menus.
  • Managed inventory to ensure product availability while minimizing waste.
  • Implemented quality control measures for all beverage offerings to uphold standards.
  • Established vendor relationships to negotiate competitive pricing and secure quality products.
  • Conducted staff training on beverage preparation.
  • Supervised bar staff in daily operations, including scheduling and performance reviews.
  • Led team meetings to communicate goals and improve overall operational efficiency.

General Manager /Bar Manager

Back Bay Social Club
Boston, MA
10.2015 - 06.2017
  • Managed staff scheduling to optimize team performance and coverage.
  • Developed training programs to enhance employee skills and service standards.
  • Oversaw daily operations to ensure smooth restaurant functionality.
  • Managed all aspects of daily business operations including budgeting, staffing, scheduling, inventory control, customer service and sales.
  • Created schedules and monitored payroll to remain within budget.
  • Tracked monthly sales to generate reports for business development planning.
  • Provided guidance and support to subordinate managers in order to foster an atmosphere of cooperation throughout the organization.
  • Reviewed financial statements and sales or activity reports to measure productivity or goal achievement.
  • Managed bar operations, ensuring smooth workflow and efficient service.
  • Developed seasonal drink menus, incorporating current trends and customer preferences.
  • Oversaw inventory management, tracking stock levels and ordering supplies as needed.
  • Managed bar staff, trained new hires, and implemented disciplinary procedures when necessary.

Bar & Operations Consultant

Rock Restaurant Group
Bangkok, Thailand
06.2015 - 09.2015
  • Collaborated with management to establish standard operating procedures for staff training.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures through strategic resource allocation and vendor negotiations.
  • Analyzed business processes to uncover opportunities for cost reductions.
  • Designed seasonal cocktail menus that highlighted local flavors and current trends.
  • Developed beverage programs to improve guest satisfaction and overall dining experience.
  • Trained staff on beverage service standards and product knowledge for enhanced performance.
  • Assessed market trends and local product availability to inform programming decisions.

Lead Bartender

Cafe ArtScience
Cambridge, MA
08.2014 - 06.2015
  • Trained new staff on drink preparation and techniques.
  • Performed opening and closing duties including restocking supplies.
  • Studied industry trends to inform planning of bar menu and development of new drink recipes.
  • Trained in use of lab grade equipment and prep methodology (centrifuge, rotational evaporator, liquid nitrogen, ultrasonic evaporator)

Skills

  • Beverage program development
  • Cocktail menu design
  • Menu development and logistics expertise
  • Beverage cost control
  • Purchasing strategy
  • Team recruitment and training
  • Bar operations

Timeline

Beverage Director

Xenia Greek Hospitality
11.2021 - Current

Beverage Director

Committee
07.2017 - 05.2023

General Manager /Bar Manager

Back Bay Social Club
10.2015 - 06.2017

Bar & Operations Consultant

Rock Restaurant Group
06.2015 - 09.2015

Lead Bartender

Cafe ArtScience
08.2014 - 06.2015

Awards & Accolades

  • Hecate (Boston) - Best Cocktail Bar Boston 2022, World's 50 Best Discovery 2023. World's Top 500 Bars 2023-2025
  • Bar Vlaha (Boston) - #1 Bar & Restaurant Boston 2025 (Boston Magazine)
  • Kaia (Boston) - World's 25 Best New Restaurants (Condé Nast 2025)
  • Worlds 50 Best Popup Series @ Bar In Front of the Bar (Athens Bar Show 2023/2024)

References

References available upon request.

Awards & Accolades

  • Hecate (Boston) - Best Cocktail Bar Boston 2022, World's 50 Best Discovery 2023. World's Top 500 Bars 2023-2025
  • Bar Vlaha (Boston) - #1 Bar & Restaurant Boston 2025 (Boston Magazine)
  • Kaia (Boston) - World's 25 Best New Restaurants (Condé Nast 2025)
  • Worlds 50 Best Popup Series @ Bar In Front of the Bar (Athens Bar Show 2023/2024)

References

References available upon request.