Marisa Holt, a seasoned bartender from Marmora, New Jersey, has earned the title of 2024 Bar Boss, presented by Colossal. With a decade of experience behind the bar, Holt brings both creativity and precision to her craft. Her ability to create an inviting environment for guests, paired with her technical skills in flair bartending and craft mixology, set her apart in this year’s competition.
“I take pride in being the person people like to come out and visit,” Holt says. “Strangers become regulars. In fact, they’re the ones who encouraged me to enter this competition.”
After weeks of competition, the public voted Holt into the Top 8 to attend the Final live competition in Nashville. Holt impressed judges with her signature cocktail—Sweet Dragon—a vibrant infusion of dragon fruit, jalapeño, cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, pineapple rum, and tequila. The drink, developed for a national flair cocktail competition she previously won, strikes a thoughtful balance of sweet heat and botanical notes, demonstrating her commitment to flavor and presentation. “I felt the cocktail airs really emphasized the bubbles in the drink, adding a sophisticated and trendy touch. The decoration was eye-catching and enhanced the refreshing, approachable nature of the cocktail. The subtle aroma from the dehydrated petals along the wine glass led to an exciting, well-balanced drink that was definitely a favorite.”
Holt’s dedication to the craft extends well beyond the bar. She plans to use her $20,000 prize to launch a mobile bartending business specializing in flair bartending and curated mixology experiences. Her vision includes a training program to help aspiring bartenders develop their skills and secure event-based employment. “This is about more than starting a business,” she explains. “It’s about creating opportunity and elevating the art of bartending in my community.”
Currently working across a variety of venues along the New Jersey shore, including Sunset, while also managing private events and brand partnerships, Holt’s versatility and professionalism continue to drive her success. Her service style—efficient, attentive, and imaginative—reflects her belief that bartending is not just about serving drinks but about shaping memorable experiences.
“The live competition experience was unforgettable,” Holt says. “Winning was one of the most rewarding moments of my career. It validated years of hard work and opened the door to exciting new opportunities.”
With a loyal following, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a clear vision for the future, Marisa Holt is poised to make a lasting impact on the hospitality industry.
IG: @marisamariexo | FB: Marisa Marie Holt | TikTok: @marisamarieholt
Competition Drinks:
Sweet Dragon
- Hiatus Reposado Tequila
- Dragonfruit Cordial
- Pineapple juice
- St-Germain
- Club soda
- Prosecco
- Cocktail airs
Smokey Desert
- Hiatus Reposado
- Mezcal Tequila
- Mango-Jalapeño Lime Oleo Citrate
- Chilly Grenadine (pomegranate juice, pomegranate molasses, jalapeño, orange blossom water)
- Dehydrated mango powder on the rim
- Smoke bubbles to accent the drink’s name and aroma
“I layered the cocktail to give the illusion of a smoky dessert at sunset, adding an element of intrigue and excitement.”
Quickfire round:
- Your drink of choice for:
a. Breakfast: Bloody Mary
b. Lunch: Martini (for a liquid lunch)
c. Dinner: Wine - Most underrated spirit: Gin
- Favorite food and beverage pairing?Pasta and wine
- Bartending tip: Stay positive
- Ingredient/garnish you love to work with: Peels
- Least fave ingredient/garnish to work with: Hand-stuffed olives
- Nickname: Ris
- Favorite restaurant: Ralph’s
- Favorite movie centered around a bartender: Cocktail
- What is your happy place? The beach
