Matt Kelly

Matt Kelly bartended his way through school, along with serving, cooking, and washing dishes. When he completed his education, he listened to others (including the voices in his head) and got a mainstream business job. In doing personal growth work, he realized he shouldn’t have left the industry. Today Matt is a bartender, writer, and men’s personal growth workshop leader who lives in Portland, OR. He’s passionate about beer, craft cocktails, food, and authentic self-expression.

The Ultimate Guide To Craft Mocktails For Dry January

The Ultimate Guide To Craft Mocktails For Dry January

Jan 2, 2025 | Bar Ingredients, Better Bartending, Business of the Bar, Mixology, Mocktails

Even cocktail lovers can benefit from an occasional reset. Dry January is a chance to recharge, sleep better, and rethink drinking habits. Come learn about mocktails and non-alcoholic cocktails.

How To Double Strain A Cocktail

How To Double Strain A Cocktail

Oct 18, 2021 | Business of the Bar, Cocktail Skills, Mixology, The Bar Career

If you’re not straining correctly, you may be over-diluting your cocktails with water or leaving herbs, bits of fruit, or pulp floating in your drink. I’m here to tell you about double straining and why it’s an easy technique that’ll make your cocktails that much closer to the drinks you’d enjoy at a craft cocktail bar.

Vodka Vs. Gin: Which To Choose?

Vodka Vs. Gin: Which To Choose?

Oct 11, 2021 | Business of the Bar, Cocktail Skills, Gin, Mixology, Vodka

If you have asked yourself if you’re supposed to use vodka or gin in a specific cocktail, don’t be embarrassed. I’m a professional bartender and cocktail competition competitor, and I ponder this question regularly. These spirits– like the gin vs vodka debate– are complex, engaging, and fun.

The Truth about Vodka: Are All Vodkas the Same?

The Truth about Vodka: Are All Vodkas the Same?

Oct 31, 2020 | Cocktail Skills, Mixology, Vodka

Let’s explore the types of vodka, the myths and facts, distillation process, and branding so that you can buy with confidence.

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