Gardenista Adds Todd Clark of Matsuhisa as Senior Advisor

CHICAGO, IL (December 2024) – Gardenista, the premium ready-to-serve cocktail brand known for its bold garden flavors and innovative approach, welcomes Todd Clark, Matsuhisa Partner and Director of Operations, as a Senior Advisor. The collaboration brings world-class hospitality expertise to the brand, further solidifying Gardenista’s reputation for excellence in craft cocktails.

With years of experience at Matsuhisa, Todd Clark is celebrated for his exceptional leadership and ability to create extraordinary dining and beverage programs. As Matsuhisa Partner and Director of Operations, Clark has been instrumental in shaping one of the most renowned culinary brands in the world. His role with Gardenista will provide unique insight regarding their dedication to delivering premium experiences, now in the ready-to-serve cocktail space.

Clark joins a cadre of high-level experts in the spirits and hospitality industry, with extensive knowledge in sales, distribution, finance, consumer packaged goods and marketing. The team consists of members such as Kevin Berg, Vince Parrinello and more. Gardenista’s founders have successfully launched various spirit brands such as Effen Vodka and have worked with Fortune 500 companies including Constellation, Coors, Bacardi and PepsiCo.

“Clark’s involvement underscores Gardenista’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the beverage industry”, said Jason Merz, Gardenista Director of Marketing. “His extensive expertise in operations and high-end culinary experiences will play a pivotal role in the brand’s continued growth and product development, ensuring it remains a standout in the market.”

Gardenista, a premium ready-to-serve cocktail made with vodka, tequila, or bourbon which defies common convention and blends garden flavors of herbs, fresh lime juice, ginger and a kick of jalapeño. The product is an innovative, ingredient-focused “ready-to-serve” cocktail that elevates the drinking experience. Inspired by the mountains, this unique cocktail draws from the popular Gardener cocktail, originally featured at Matsuhisa in Aspen, Colorado.This innovative approach has set Gardenista apart as a leader in the ready-to-serve cocktail market, offering versatility and vibrancy for every occasion.

Targeting retail for the launch, Gardenista will utilize in-store merchandising, digital, and impactful field marketing. With its continued success, Gardenista plans to expand its distribution into major cities in Illinois, Tennessee and Colorado including Chicago, Memphis, Chattanooga, Knoxville, Denver, Boulder, Aspen, Colorado Springs and Vail. 

Gardenista is available for purchase in Illinois, Tennessee, and Colorado for $14.99 - $16.99 and plans for a future national launch. For more information about Gardenista visit drinkgardenista.com or follow Gardenista @drinkgardenista.