Meet Eddie Simeón of Hella Cocktail

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eddie Simeón.

Eddie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? 
My co-founder, Tobin, and I began creating bitters as a hobby in our Brooklyn apartment in 2007. Back then, we bottled our home infusions in empty hot sauce bottles. In 2011, we decided to start our own business because we felt that the trendy cocktail bars in lower Manhattan were too exclusive and not accessible to everyone who wanted to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
We have encountered numerous challenges on our journey, but we have persevered through it all because we’re passionate about what we do. We have faced difficulties such as limited access to capital, failed innovations, overwhelming success, and increased competition in the industry. However, we are proud of the success we have achieved so far and are looking forward to the year ahead with great anticipation. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Hella Cocktail Co.?
Today, the cocktail industry has grown into a significant part of the food and beverage world, and our portfolio of bitters and mixers has expanded as well. With offices in Los Angeles and Michigan, our goal is to inspire confidence in the act of celebrating by providing elevated cocktail options that cater to the modern drinking spectrum. Whether you prefer full-strength, half-strength, or alcohol-free drinks, Hella is here to help you celebrate as your true self. 

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
As a child, I had the privilege of growing up in a vibrant and diverse multicultural family in Oakland, California. My family roots were deeply embedded in the traditions of Mexico and the Philippines, and I was fortunate enough to experience the richness of both cultures through their food. While I struggled to connect with my heritage through language, the flavors and aromas of traditional dishes like albondigas, enchiladas, lumpia, leche flan, and calimanci became my gateway to my familial homelands. These dishes were more than just food to me; they were a connection to my ancestors, a tangible link to my cultural heritage that helped me understand and appreciate my identity. It was this deep connection to food and culture that ultimately led me to pursue my passion as an entrepreneur in the food industry. Today, I am proud to share my love of Mexican and Filipino cuisine with the world and to continue to honor the traditions of my ancestors through the dishes that have brought me so much joy and connection throughout my life. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hellacocktail.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellacocktailco