Two Columbus-area bartenders among nation’s top 100

Two Columbus-area bartenders are getting national recognition from one of the cocktail industry’s biggest organizations.

Dustin Ross of The Lion and Rodrigo Serrano of Stories on High were both named to the 2026 World Class U.S. Top 100 Bartenders list from the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation. The annual recognition highlights bartenders across the country for excellence in cocktail technique, creativity and hospitality.

Ross serves as beverage director at The Lion in Bexley. Serrano works at the rooftop bar atop Hilton Columbus Downtown.

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“It’s an honor to be included again this year, especially considering the level of talent that keeps developing in the industry,” Ross said in another statement released to 614NOW. “I’m particularly grateful for our team at The Lion for always pushing one another to improve and to the industry itself for providing a place where creativity can flourish.”

“I’m incredibly honored to be included among this group,” Serrano said in a statement released to 614NOW. “The team at Stories on High pushes creativity and hospitality every day and I’m grateful to be part of a crew that challenges me to grow.”

The Lion has gained national attention in recent years for its cocktail program and upscale tavern concept in Bexley. Stories on High has become one of Columbus’ highest-profile cocktail destinations, known for its rooftop views and Japanese-inspired contemporary food menu.

Only four Ohio bartenders made this year’s rankings. The Columbus region accounts for two of them. Cincinnati bartenders Kyle Gilioli and Sierra Knight were also recognized.

Cheers!

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