Alba Huerta

Bar Owner and Mixologist

Alba Huerta is a distinguished bartender, acclaimed author, charismatic host, and bilingual cocktail educator. Hailing from Mexico and raised in Texas, Alba embraces her proud Mexican-American heritage as a seasoned entrepreneur with a remarkable global footprint in the bar industry.

At her celebrated Houston establishment, Julep, Alba has set the standard for excellence, earning the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program in 2022. Julep also secured a spot on the inaugural 50 Best Bars North America list, ranking 46th that same year. Throughout its decade-long tenure, Julep has consistently been named one of the Top Five Bars in the U.S. by Bon Appetit and earned recognition as one of the Best Bars in America by Esquire.

Alba's talent and dedication have garnered widespread acclaim. Thrillist recognized her as one of the Best Bartenders in America, while Imbibe named her Bartender of the Year. The Houston Chronicle included her among their 50 Most Fascinating People, and Cherry Bombe honored her in their prestigious Cherry Bombe 100 list. Food & Wine has highlighted Alba as a rising-star female mixologist.

In addition to her influential bar career, Alba is an award-winning author of the cocktail book "Julep," which received an International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) award in 2019 for its exceptional contribution to the Wine, Beer, and Spirits category.

Alba's passion for mixology extends beyond the bar. She joined the Williams Sonoma Chefs’ Collective in 2021 and hosts the Williams Sonoma Virtual Beverage Academy, attracting enthusiasts from across the globe eager to enhance their at-home bartending skills. In recognition of her impact, Alba was named one of Entrepreneur’s 100 Most Influential Women in 2023.

Beyond her professional achievements, Alba treasures her family—her parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews—and her beloved pets, Max the dog and Missy the kitten.

In every endeavor, Alba Huerta continues to leave an indelible mark, blending creativity, expertise, and a deep-rooted passion for mixology and hospitality.