Aaron DeFeo, Mixologist
Tucson native Aaron DeFeo is best known as the co-owner and Bar Director of the award-winning Little Rituals, a 75-seat reimagining of the hotel bar concept in Downtown Phoenix, as well as a founder of Stabyl Beverage Co., Solid Sipping LLC and a partner in Arizona Cocktail Weekend.
Little Rituals has received recognition from the James Beard Foundation as a semifinalist for Best Bar Program (2020, 2024 and 2025), Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards (2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025) with a Top Four Finalist designation in 2022-2025 and winning Best U.S. Hotel Bar in 2025; Liquor.com Awards Best Hotel Bar Finalist (2022, 2023), Wine Enthusiast's Best Hotel Bars In America (2023), The Phoenix New Times (Best Cocktails, 2020, 2024, 2025) and the Arizona Restaurant Association Foodist Awards Best Beverage Program (2019).
A passionate advocate of creative mixology, DeFeo holds more than 25 years of experience and has been credited with elevating Arizona's cocktail culture. His creations blend familiar spirits with unexpected flavors, creating an extraordinary sensory experience for his guests. During his career, DeFeo has competed in more than 25 national and international competitions and has been featured in several publications, including Nightclub & Bar Magazine, The Tasting Panel, Imbibe Magazine and The Los Angeles Times.
DeFeo earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona and is certified B.A.R. Ready. He is also a Society of Wine Educators Certified Spirits Specialist. He holds the Spirits Professional distinction from the United States Bartenders' Guild (where he was the founder and president of the Tucson chapter).
