Emma Janzen
Emma Janzen is an intrepid traveler, drinks journalist, and photographer who splits her time between Chicago and the world's coolest barstools. She is the author and photographer of Mezcal: The History, Craft & Cocktails of the World’s Ultimate Artisanal Spirit and co-author of three James Beard Award-winning books: The Way of the Cocktail with Julia Momosé, The Bartender's Manifesto with Toby Maloney, and The Bartender’s Pantry with Jim Meehan. The Classic Cocktail Sessions, which is a punky prequel to Manifesto, released in June of 2026. Agave is her wheelhouse. As a certified WSET Agave Master, she currently serves as an agave spirits judge for the New Orleans Spirits Competition and the Agavos Awards. She writes about the spirit for outlets including PUNCH and Wirecutter, and is currently working on the 10th anniversary edition of her book Mezcal. Emma is also an integral member of the hospitality industry as a mentor in the 2026 Raise the Bar program, the USA Midwest Academy Chair for The World’s 50 Best Bars, and the director of communications for The Shift Change Tour, a multi-city engagement educating hospitality workers on their constitutional rights, community advocacy, and civil engagement, and raising money and awareness for immigrants working in the business. She has been included in the Drinks International Bar World 100, an annual list of the industry’s most influential people, since 2023; most recently featured at #16
Click here to check out my website, where you can find article links, photo portfolio and contact information.
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WHAT'S NEW
Classic Cocktail Sessions On Tour!
Toby and I are doing classes and happy hours. First stop: Chicago.
The Classic Cocktail Sessions is out!
I poured a lot of blood, sweat, and bitters into this one. She's really special. Please pick up a copy!
I helped launch this multi-city tour educating hospitality workers on their constitutional rights, community advocacy, and civil engagement, and raising money and awareness for immigrants working in the business.
Donate to The Shift Change Tour
Please consider helping us get to more targeted cities in 2026.
My story on how bars are preparing for ICE encounters is in the Top 4!
How Bars Are Responding to ICE Raids
I wrote about how folks are preparing their staff for the worst.
BOOKS
My third co-authored book, written with Jim Meehan, won awards at JBFA and TOTC in 2025.
My second co-authored book won JBFA and TOTC awards in 2023.
The Way of the Cocktail: Japanese Traditions, Techniques, and Recipes
My first co-authored book won a James Beard award in 2022.
Mezcal: The History, Craft & Cocktails of the World's Ultimate Artisanal Spirit
My first book, which was nominated for a James Beard award in 2018.
FEATURE STORIES: GREATEST HITS
The Japanese-Style Bar Is Booming in New York.
These cocktail bars are continuing a centuries-old cultural exchange.
The Best Places to Drink Mezcal Across the Country
10 bars that prioritize sustainable sourcing and education.
For PUNCH, a list of brands trying to preserve regional traditions.
Most tequila brands use undisclosed additives.
My first for the recommendations arm of The New York Times.
My first Eater feature took home a TOTC Spirited Award in 2023.
TUNE IN
A playlist of podcast interviews I've done since 2018.
GUEST "SHIFTS"
I moderated a panel on The Anatomy of a Well Built Bar for the 2025 event.
I moderated a panel on the past, present, and future of TX cocktails.
Jess & Josh interviewed me for the Hospitality Gems series.
In their own words: Emma Janzen
Tess Lampert interviewed me for this very sweet Mezcalistas feature.
Brass Tacks With Schustack: Emma Janzen
I talk about the creative process and more on Amanda's substack.
What Is a Mexican American Cocktail? These Bars Have Answers.
I was interviewed for this PUNCH story on Mexican-American bars.
The Best Spirits, Wine and Beer to Gift This Holiday Season
I recommend a one-of-a-kind tequila for PUNCH's gift guide.
Food & Wine | Not All Mezcal Is the Same — Here’s What to Know About All 3 Types
I spoke with Beth Demmon about how mezcal is made.
I'm quoted in this story on mezcal for the Spanish publication.
Craft Spirits | The Agave Dilemma
Kate Bernot interviewed me for her story on the rise of American-made agave spirits.