CORE Bar Consulting is led by Miguel F. Lancha, a seasoned Beverage Director with over 25 years in the bar and restaurant industry across the Americas and Europe. Based in Washington, D.C., Miguel is known for creating stunning cocktail programs that balance creativity, functionality, and guest-centered service.
For nine years, Miguel served as Cocktail Director for José Andrés Group, overseeing innovation across more than 48 bars in 10 cities and four countries—the U.S., Bahamas, Mexico, and Dubai—including venues at The Ritz-Carlton, Conrad, Waldorf Astoria, and Atlantis The Royal. His leadership supported programs recognized with Michelin Stars and James Beard Awards, generating over $60 million annually.
His background also includes transforming beverage programs for Meliá International Hotels' high-end brands in the Dominican Republic and consulting across Spain, with a focus on aligning local identity with global standards.
Miguel is also a dedicated educator; currently faculty and co-leader of the cocktail department at BAR 5 DAY, the first Cognac Educator certified in Spain by the BNIC, and a former member of the WIRSPA Rum Expert Panel, where he authored their rum training program as part of a €70M EU-funded campaign.
His multicultural background across five countries brings a broad, informed perspective to every project.
At CORE Bar Consulting, that expertise is applied to build thoughtful, effective bar programs—from layout to training to service steps—designed to elevate the guest experience and help venues operate at their best.
