Eben Freeman is a distinguished New York City-based mixologist renowned for his innovative contributions to the field of molecular mixology. His career in the food and beverage industry spans over two decades, during which he has played pivotal roles in several of the city's esteemed establishments. Freeman's journey began as a stock boy at Crossroads Wine & Spirits while attending New York University, eventually leading him to bartending positions across various neighborhoods, including the West Village, Lower East Side, and Midtown.
In 2004, Freeman joined the opening team of wd~50, a restaurant celebrated for its avant-garde cuisine under Chef Wylie Dufresne. There, he developed a reputation for crafting cutting-edge cocktails that employed scientific methods and a culinary approach, focusing on fresh ingredients and underutilized spirits. His collaboration with Pastry Chef Sam Mason at wd~50 led to the opening of Tailor in 2008, a venue acclaimed for its imaginative food and drink offerings.
Freeman's expertise in molecular mixology is exemplified by his creation of the "Waylon," a cocktail featuring smoked Coca-Cola and bourbon, which contributed to the popularization of smoked ingredients in beverages. His innovative techniques, such as fat-washing spirits, have influenced bartenders worldwide. Beyond his work at wd~50 and Tailor, Freeman has held significant roles, including Director of Bar Operations and Innovation at the Altamarea Group and Beverage Director at AvroKO Hospitality Group. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing the craft of mixology, blending scientific principles with traditional bartending to create unique and memorable drinking experiences.