Executive Chef Junior Merino is a globally recognized culinary innovator, award-winning mixologist, and one of the founding pioneers of modern mixology. Known internationally as “The Liquid Chef,” Merino revolutionized the beverage industry by seamlessly blending culinary artistry with cocktail creation, establishing a new standard for hospitality worldwide.

Born into a multicultural culinary environment, Merino developed an early passion for combining diverse flavors and ingredients. By age 15, he had advanced from baker and line cook to bartender and beverage manager, earning a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for a wine program he created and gaining admission to the Court of Master Sommeliers’ Guild. His award-winning cocktail, “Coming Up Roses,” launched a career that would influence the global food and beverage industry.

Since founding The Liquid Chef in 2002, Merino has developed acclaimed beverage programs for luxury hotels, cruise lines, airlines, restaurants, and major international brands. He has collaborated with celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Justin Timberlake, and Lenny Kravitz, and has served dignitaries including President Bill Clinton.

Merino is the founder of The Liquid Lab, Alchemix, and The Liquid Team, educational platforms that have trained thousands of hospitality professionals worldwide. As Executive Chef of M Cantina, he continues to push culinary boundaries, earning national recognition and establishing the restaurant as one of Metro Detroit’s premier dining destinations.