Erick Castro is co-owner of Raised by Wolves and Gilly’s House of Cocktails, two acclaimed destinations for cocktails and spirits. He has worked in the hospitality industry from age 14 and his bartending experience spans both coasts and was recently named one of the Bar World 100: Industry's Most Influential Figures for both 2021 and 2022. His beverage programs have earned the highest accolades, including a James Beard nomination, Esquire’s “The Best Bars in America,” Food & Wine’s “World’s Best Bars,” Imbibe 75 for 2014, 2019 and 2025, and innumerable Spirited Award nominations at Tales of the Cocktail for “Best American Bartender,” “Best Mentor,” “Best Brand Ambassador,” and “World’s Best Cocktail Menu.”

Erick is a beloved figure and the creative force behind the highly influential podcast, “Bartender at Large,” which was awarded the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award for Best Broadcast, Podcast or Online Video Series for both 2019 and 2024, and the Nightclub & Bar Show Industry Podcast of the Year 2019. Through his work, Erick is a mentor and inspiration to thousands of bartenders around the globe.