Mixologist & Bar Operations Specialist at Samson & Surrey
Bar ambassador
Born from a rich Assyrian, Greek, and Persian heritage, Philip Khandehrish brings more than two decades of experience in hospitality and mixology. Throughout his career, he has led renowned bar programs, developed a distinctive creative approach to cocktails, and served as a brand ambassador for several respected spirits brands, including Casa Noble and R. St. Barth Agricole Rum. His international background and multicultural identity have shaped a unique perspective on cocktail creation, combining technical expertise, aesthetics, and storytelling to craft memorable drinking experiences.
Philip Khandehrish brings over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and cocktail industries.
He began his career at Italiani’s, where he mastered the fundamentals of classic mixology, before joining TGI Fridays, where he developed the discipline, speed, and precision required in high-volume bar operations. He later continued his professional journey at several prestigious venues, including The Forge Restaurant, The Mayfair Hotel, and The Grove Isle Hotel & Spa.
In 2010, Philip joined the renowned The Setai Miami Beach, where he led the cocktail program for more than five years. During this time, he specialized in house-made infusions, signature syrups, molecular mixology, and the creation of premium guest experiences.
He subsequently brought his expertise to several leading spirits brands, serving as a Brand Ambassador for R. St. Barth Agricole Rum, FOS Greek Mastiha, and Casa Noble. Alongside these roles, he developed a strong focus on education, mentoring, and professional training within the beverage industry.
More recently, through his work with Alambiq, Philip has contributed to international beverage programs and delivered seminars at major industry events, including Portland Cocktail Week and Tales of the Cocktail, further solidifying his reputation as a respected educator and industry expert.
Today, Philip holds a dual leadership role within the beverage industry. As Corporate Mixologist & Bar Operations Specialist for Heaven Hill Brands, he develops cocktail programs, optimizes bar operations, and supports teams in driving innovation while ensuring consistency across beverage offerings.
In parallel, he serves as Senior National Beverage Ambassador for Les vergers Boiron, where he focuses on recipe development, professional education, and the execution of nationwide activations. Through this role, he helps strengthen the connection between mixology, technical expertise, and creative innovation, while supporting beverage professionals across the country.
Philip’s work is defined by a constant pursuit of precision and consistency. He advocates for a clear, structured approach to mixology, where every ingredient and technique serves the overall balance of the cocktail. His core principles include:
• A rigorous understanding of ingredients and foundational techniques.
• The thoughtful use of modern methods, always in service of flavor.
• A strong focus on texture, balance, and aromatic harmony.
Education is also a central pillar of his philosophy. Philip believes that technique should be practical, transferable, and applicable in everyday operations. Whether training teams, mentoring bartenders, or supporting industry professionals, his goal is to share knowledge in a way that is both accessible and impactful.
Philip Khandehrish has been recognized throughout his career for his creativity, technical expertise, and contributions to the cocktail industry:
• National winner of the Martin Miller’s Cocktail Competition, recognized for his creativity and innovative approach to cocktail development.
• Award recipient in the Montenegro Amaro Cocktail Competition, acknowledged for his distinctive use of aromatics and flavor balance.
• Nationally recognized in the Michter’s Whiskey Cocktail Competition for his work showcasing American whiskey and classic spirits.
• Top 5 National Finalist in the 2014 Most Imaginative Bartender Competition, one of the industry’s most prestigious cocktail competitions.
• Featured by Miami New Times for creating an innovative $100 signature cocktail, highlighting his creativity and craftsmanship.
Boiron is an invaluable resource in these times of great creativity in the bar industry.
Access to carefully processed, premium quality fruit from around the world enables the beverage industry to rise to meet consumer expectations.
I’m proud to represent such a high-quality product.
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