Mixologist

AI-generated image of the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award on top of a bar, next to a cocktail
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

TOTCF Reveals Regional Top 10 Honorees

TOTCF Reveals Regional Top 10 Honorees

by David Klemt

AI-generated image of the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Award on top of a bar, next to a cocktail

This is what Shutterstock’s AI think a Spirited Award looks like. At least the spelling is accurate.

Please join us in raising a glass of your favorite beverage—full-, low-, or no-ABV—to the 18th annual Spirited Awards Regional Top 10 Honorees.

Overall, New York City lays claim to the most honorees with a staggering 27. In second place among the American cities is Chicago, with 17 honorees. New Orleans comes in at third with 13 honorees dotted throughout the city.

That brings us to Canada. There’s a tie between Montréal, Québec, and Toronto, Ontario, for first place. Each city boasts 15 Regional Top 10 Honorees. Vancouver follows with 11 honorees. Appearing in two categories is Dartmouth, Nova Scotia’s Dear Friend Bar. There are also two honorees in Québec City, Québec.

As you can see, a handful of cities throughout North America are doing very well in terms of the bar scene. Internationally, London is home to 17 honorees, Singapore claims 15, and Mexico City boasts 12 honorees.

You’ll find the entire list of honorees below, starting with America. What can I say? I just have to be different. Cheers!

American Honorees

Best US Bar Team presented by William Grant & Sons

Best US Bar Team: US Central

  • Anna’s (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Best Intentions (Chicago, Illinois)
  • DrinkWell (Austin, Texas)
  • Grey Ghost (Detroit, Michigan)
  • Jewel of the South (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Meteor (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
  • Nickel City (Austin, Texas)
  • Sportsman’s Club (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Three Dots and a Dash (Chicago, Illinois)

Best US Bar Team: US East

  • Allegory DC (Washington, DC)
  • Bar Belly (New York, New York)
  • Bar Goto (New York, New York)
  • Martiny’s (New York, New York)
  • Milady’s (New York, New York)
  • Mister Paradise (New York, New York)
  • Old Glory (Nashville, Tennessee)
  • Overstory (New York, New York)
  • Proof (Charleston, South Carolina)
  • Service Bar (Washington, DC)

Best US Bar Team: US West

  • Accomplice Bar (Los Angeles, California)
  • Century Grand (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • Employees Only Los Angeles (Los Angeles, California)
  • Highball Cocktail Bar (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • Navy Strength (Seattle, Washington)
  • Pacific Cocktail Haven (San Francisco, California)
  • Strong Water Anaheim (Anaheim, California)
  • Thunderbolt (Los Angeles, California)
  • True Laurel (San Francisco, California)
  • Yacht Club (Denver, Colorado)

Best US Cocktail Bar presented by Del Maguey Mezcal

Best US Cocktail Bar: US Central*

  • Adiõs Bar (Birmingham, Alabama)
  • Bar Tonique (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Best Intentions (Chicago, Illinois)
  • DrinkWell (Austin, Texas)
  • Here Nor There (Austin, Texas)
  • Julep (Houston, Texas)
  • Kiesling (Detroit, Michigan)
  • Meadowlark (Chicago, Illinois)
  • MONEYGUN (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Sparrow (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Standby (Detroit, Michigan)

Best US Cocktail Bar: US East

  • Bar Belly (New York, New York)
  • Bar Goto (New York, New York)
  • barmini by José Andrés (Washington, DC)
  • Dear Irving Gramercy (New York, New York)
  • Double Chicken Please (New York, New York)
  • Martiny’s (New York, New York)
  • Milady’s (New York, New York)
  • Mister Paradise (New York, New York)
  • Overstory (New York, New York)
  • Service Bar (Washington, DC)

Best US Cocktail Bar: US West

  • Baby Gee (Long Beach, California)
  • Capri Club (Los Angeles, California)
  • Foreign National (Seattle, Washington)
  • Happy Accidents (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
  • Highball Cocktail Bar (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • The Doctor’s Office (Seattle, Washington)
  • Thunderbolt (Los Angeles, California)
  • Trick Dog (San Francisco, California)
  • True Laurel (San Francisco, California)
  • Yacht Club (Denver, Colorado)

Best US Hotel Bar presented by Grey Goose

Best US Hotel Bar: US Central

  • Catbird at Thompson Dallas Hotel (Dallas, Texas)
  • Chandelier Bar at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Dovetail Bar at The Schaeffer Hotel (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Lazy Bird at The Hoxton (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Midnight Rambler at The Joule (Dallas, Texas)
  • Milk Room at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Otoko x Watertrade at South Congress Hotel (Austin, Texas)
  • The Elysian Bar at Hotel Peter and Paul (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt New Orleans (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Vol. 39 at The Kimpton Gray Hotel (Chicago, Illinois)

Best US Hotel Bar: US East

  • 27 Restaurant at Freehand Miami (Miami Beach, Florida)
  • Allegory DC (Washington, DC)
  • Champagne Bar at Four Seasons at The Surf Club (Miami, Florida)
  • Dear Irving on Hudson at Aliz Hotel (New York, New York)
  • Frannie & The Fox at Emeline (Charleston, South Carolina)
  • Lobby Bar at The Hotel Chelsea (New York, New York)
  • MATADOR BAR at The Miami Beach EDITION (Miami Beach, Florida)
  • Nubeluz at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad (New York, New York)
  • Raines Law Room at The William (New York, New York)
  • White Limozeen at The Graduate Nashville (Nashville, Tennessee)

Best US Hotel Bar: US West

  • Ardor at The West Hollywood EDITION (West Hollywood, California)
  • Little Rituals at the Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • Mountaineering Club at Graduate Seattle Hotel (Seattle, Washington)
  • Pacific Standard at KEX Portland (Portland, Oregon)
  • Pint + Jigger at the Ala Moana Hotel (Honolulu, Hawaii)
  • Rise Over Run at the LINE Hotel (San Francisco, California)
  • Rudolph’s Bar & Tea at Freehand LA (Los Angeles, California)
  • The Manor Bar at  Rosewood Miramar Beach (Montecito, California)
  • The Maybourne Bar at The Maybourne Hotel Beverly Hills (Beverly Hills, California)
  • The Ski Lodge at Superfrico at The Cosmopolitan (Las Vegas, Nevada)

Best US Restaurant Bar presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Best US Restaurant Bar: US Central*

  • Bar Pigalle (Detroit, Michigan)
  • Brennan’s Restaurant (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Coquette (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Daisies (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Espiritu Mezcaleria (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Grey Ghost (Detroit, Michigan)
  • Kumiko (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Maple & Ash (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Rose Mary (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Spoon and Stable (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
  • The Loyalist (Chicago, Illinois)

Best US Restaurant Bar: US East

  • Amazonia (Washington DC)
  • Blossom Bar (Brookline, Massachusetts)
  • Bresca (Washington, DC)
  • Cosme (New York, New York)
  • COTE Korean Steakhouse (New York, New York)
  • Crown Shy (New York, New York)
  • Gramercy Tavern (New York, New York)
  • Jaguar Sun (Miami, Florida)
  • Macchialina (Miami, Florida)
  • The Grey (Savannah, Georgia)

Best US Restaurant Bar: US West

  • Accomplice Bar (Los Angeles, California)
  • Bar Cecil (Palm Springs, California)
  • Cleaver — Butchered Meats, Seafood & Classic Cocktails (Las Vegas, Nevada)
  • L’Oursin (Seattle, Washington)
  • Lolo (San Francisco, California
  • Palomar (Portland, Oregon)
  • République (Los Angeles, California)
  • Strong Water Anaheim (Anaheim, California)
  • Valentine (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • Viridian (Oakland, California)

Best New US Cocktail Bar presented by Diageo Bar Academy

Best New US Cocktail Bar: US Central

  • Cobra (Columbus, Ohio)
  • daydreamer (Austin, Texas)
  • Equipment Room (Austin, Texas)
  • Good Night John Boy (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Jolie (New Orleans, Louisiana)
  • Lemon (Chicago, Illinois)
  • Murray’s Tavern (Austin, Texas)
  • Saint Valentine (Dallas, Texas)
  • The Eastman (Rochester, Michigan)
  • Wild Child (Kansas City, Missouri)

Best New US Cocktail Bar: US East

  • Bartley Dunne’s (New York, New York)
  • Curean (Greenville, South Carolina)
  • Equal Measure (Boston, Massachusetts)
  • Jac’s On Bond (New York, New York)
  • Medium Cool (Miami Beach, Florida)
  • Papi Portland (Portland, Maine)
  • Paradise Lost (New York, New York)
  • Pretty Decent (Louisville, Kentucky)
  • Superbueno (New York, New York)
  • The Portrait Bar at The Fifth Avenue Hotel (New York, New York)

Best New US Cocktail Bar: US West

  • Aphotic (San Francisco, California)
  • Bar Next Door (Los Angeles, California)
  • Cavaña at LUMA Hotel (San Francisco, California)
  • Dark Room (Seattle, Washington)
  • Dirty Pretty (Portland, Oregon)
  • Donna’s (Los Angeles, California)
  • FYPM (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • Hey Kiddo (Denver, Colorado)
  • Ok Yeah (Denver, Colorado)
  • STOA (San Francisco, California)

International Honorees

Best International Bar Team presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Best International Bar Team: Asia Pacific (APAC)

  • ARGO at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China)
  • ATLAS (Singapore)
  • Caretaker’s Cottage (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
  • Dean & Nancy on 22 at the A by Adina Hotel (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia)
  • Double Deuce Lounge (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia)
  • Hope & Sesame Guangzhou (Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China)
  • Jigger & Pony at the Amara Hotel (Singapore)
  • Native (Singapore)
  • Night Hawk (Singapore)
  • Nutmeg & Clove (Singapore)

Best International Bar Team: Canada*

  • Atwater Cocktail Club (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Botanist at Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Civil Liberties (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Cry Baby Gallery (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Dear Friend Bar (Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada)
  • Laowai (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Library Bar at Fairmont Royal York (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Published on Main (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • The Cloakroom Bar (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • The Coldroom (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • The Keefer Bar (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)

Best International Bar Team: Europe

  • 1930 Cocktail Bar (Milan, Italy)
  • Bar 1661 (Dublin, Ireland)
  • Cinquanta Spirito Italiano (Pagani, Italy)
  • Mirror Cocktail Bar at Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel (Bratislava, Slovakia)
  • Panda & Sons (Edinburgh, Scotland, UK)
  • Paradiso (Barcelona, Spain)
  • Satan’s Whiskers (London, England, UK)
  • Tayēr + Elementary (London, England, UK)
  • The Cambridge Public House (Paris, Île-de-France, France)
  • The Clumsies (Athens, Greece)

Best International Bar Team: Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM&C)

  • Café de Nadie (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • CoChinChina (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • El Gallo Altanero (Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico)
  • Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • Hanky Panky (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • La Factoría (San Juan, Puerto Rico)
  • La Uat (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • Rayo Cocktail Bar (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • Tres Monos (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • Zapote Bar at Rosewood Mayakoba (Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico)

Best International Bar Team: Middle East & Africa (MEA)

  • COYA Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • fable (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • Front/Back Accra (Accra, Ghana)
  • Lost + Found Drinkery (Nicosia, Cyprus)
  • LPM Restaurant & Bar Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Mimi Kakushi (Dubai, UAE)
  • Salmon Guru Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Sin + Tax (Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa)
  • The Drinkery (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • Zuma Dubai (Dubai, UAE)

Best International Cocktail Bar presented by Patrón Tequila

Best International Cocktail Bar: Asia Pacific (APAC)

  • Above Board (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
  • BYRDI (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
  • Caretaker’s Cottage (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
  • COA (Hong Kong, China)
  • Hope & Sesame Guangzhou (Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China)
  • Maybe Sammy (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia)
  • Nutmeg & Clove (Singapore)
  • The Bellwood (Tokyo, Honshu, Japan)
  • The Cocktail Club (Jakarta, Javo, Indonesia)
  • ZEST (Seoul, South Korea)

Best International Cocktail Bar: Canada*

  • Atwater Cocktail Club (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Bar Mordecai (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Bar Pompette (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Civil Liberties (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Cocktail Bar (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Dear Friend Bar (Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada)
  • Laowai (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Milky Way Cocktail Bar (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • The Cloakroom Bar (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • The Keefer Bar (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • The Raven Room (Whistler, British Columbia, Canada)

Best International Cocktail Bar: Europe

  • 🔶🟥🔵 A Bar with Shapes for a Name (London, UK)
  • Drink Kong (Rome, Lazio, Italy)
  • HIMKOK (Oslo, Østlandet, Norway)
  • Kwãnt (London, UK)
  • Line Athens (Athens, Greece)
  • Panda & Sons (Edinburgh, Scotland, UK)
  • Paradiso (Barcelona, Spain)
  • Röda Huset (Stockholm, Södermanland and Uppland, Sweden)
  • Satan’s Whiskers (London, England, UK)
  • Three Sheets Bar (London, England, UK)

Best International Cocktail Bar: Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM&C)*

  • ALQUÍMICO (Cartagena des Indias, Bolívar, Colombia)
  • Bon Vivants (Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas)
  • Carnaval Bar (Lima, Peru)
  • El Barón Cafe & Cocktail Bar (Cartagena des Indias, Bolívar, Colombia)
  • Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • La Factoría (San Juan, Puerto Rico)
  • La Uat (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • Oh No! Lulu (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • Rayo Cocktail Bar (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • The Liquor Store (São Paulo, Brazil)
  • Tres Monos (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Best International Cocktail Bar: Middle East & Africa (MEA)

  • CAUSE | EFFECT Cocktail Kitchen (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • Dead End Paradise (Beirut, Lebanon)
  • Front/Back Accra (Accra, Ghana)
  • Galaxy Bar (Dubai, UAE)
  • Honeycomb Hi-Fi (Dubai, UAE)
  • Salmon Guru Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Shinkō (Cairo, Egypt)
  • Sin + Tax (Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa)
  • The Drinkery (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • The House of Machines (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)

Best International Hotel Bar presented by Ford’s Gin

Best International Hotel Bar: Asia Pacific (APAC)

  • ARGO at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China)
  • Bar Trigona at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
  • BKK Social Club at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand)
  • Charles H. at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul (Seoul, South Korea)
  • DarkSide at Rosewood Hong Kong (Hong Kong, China)
  • Dean & Nancy on 22 at the A by Adina Hotel (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia)
  • Origin Bar at the Shangri-La Hotel (Singapore)
  • The Bamboo Bar at the Mandarin Oriental (Bangkok, Thailand)
  • VIRTÙ at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo Otemachi (Tokyo, Honshu, Japan)
  • Writers Bar at Raffles Singapore Hotel (Singapore)

Best International Hotel Bar: Canada

  • Bar 1608 at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (Québec City, Québec, Canada)
  • Bar George at Le Mount Stephen Hotel (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Botanist at Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Clive’s Classic Lounge at Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites (Victoria, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails at Fairmont Royal York Hotel (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Library Bar at Fairmont Royal York (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Marcus Lounge and Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Montréal (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Nacarat at Fairmont Queen Elizabeth (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • The Lobby Lounge and RawBar at Fairmont Pacific Rim (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Writers Room Bar at Park Hyatt (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

Best International Hotel Bar: Europe*

  • Atrium Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze (Florence, Tuscany, Italy)
  • Avra Bar at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens (Athens, Greece)
  • Bar Les Ambassadeurs at Hôtel de Crillon (Paris, Île-de-France, France)
  • Mirror Cocktail Bar at Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel (Bratislava, Slovakia)
  • Punch Room at The Madrid EDITION (Madrid, Spain)
  • Seed Library at One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel (London, England, UK)
  • Side Hustle at The NoMad Hotel London (London, England, UK)
  • Super Lyan at Kimpton De Witt (Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands)
  • The Court at Palazzo Manfredi (Rome, Lazio, Italy)
  • The Donovan Bar at Brown’s Hotel (London, England, UK)
  • Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese at Corinthia London (London, England, UK)

Best International Hotel Bar: Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM&C)

  • BEKEB at Hotel Casa Hoyos (San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico)
  • Carlotta Reforma at The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • Fifty Mils at  Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • Hotel B at Relais & Châteaux (Lima, Peru)
  • King Cole Bar at The St. Regis Mexico City (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • La Botica at Las Ventanas al Paraiso (Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico)
  • Library by the Sea at Kimpton Seafire Resort (Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands)
  • NKIRU Bar at 45 by Director Hotel (Santiago, Chile)
  • Rabo di Galo at Rosewood São Paulo (São Paulo, Brazil)
  • Zapote Bar at Rosewood Mayakoba (Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico)

Best International Hotel Bar: Middle East & Africa (MEA)*

  • Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem (Dubai, UAE)
  • Electric Pawn Shop at the Dubai Hotel (Dubai, UAE)
  • Flashback Speakeasy Bar & Lounge at Paramount Hotel Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Gigi Rooftop Restaurant & Bar at the Gorgeous George Hotel (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • HERO at Trademark Hotel (Nairobi, Kenya)
  • Jiko Restaurant at Tribe Hotel (Nairobi, Kenya)
  • Library Bar at The Abu Dhabi EDITION (Abu Dhabi, UAE)
  • Monkey Bar at 25hours Hotel (Dubai, UAE)
  • Smoke & Mirrors at SLS Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • The Bulgari Bar at the The Bulgari Resort Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • The Leopard Bar at the Twelve Apostles Hotel (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)

Best International Restaurant Bar presented by Gin Mare

Best International Restaurant Bar: Asia Pacific (APAC)

  • Alba Bar & Deli (Brisbane, Queensland, Australia)
  • Burnt Ends (Singapore)
  • Caffe Fernet (Singapore)
  • Gimlet at Cavendish House (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
  • Neon Pigeon (Singapore)
  • PANTJA (Jakarta, Javo, Indonesia)
  • Ralph’s Bar (Chengdu, Sichuan, China)
  • SG Low (Tokyo, Honshu, Japan)
  • Sugarhall (Singapore)
  • Vender Bar (Taichung City, Taiwan)

Best International Restaurant Bar: Canada

  • Bar Kismet (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada)
  • Honō Izakaya (Québec City, Québec, Canada)
  • Le Majestique (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Major Tom (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)
  • Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provision (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Published on Main (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  • Quetzal (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Restaurant Pompette (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Rouge Gorge (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • SUYO (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)

Best International Restaurant Bar: Europe

  • Angelita (Madrid, Spain)
  • Bar Lupo (Zürich, Switzerland)
  • Carico Milano (Milan, Lombardy, Italy)
  • Danico (Paris, Île-de-France, France)
  • Galileo (Barcelona, Spain)
  • Gucci Giardino 25 (Florence, Tuscany, Italy)
  • Hakkasan (London, England, UK)
  • Le Mary Celeste (Paris, Île-de-France, France)
  • Locale Firenze (Florence, Tuscany, Italy)
  • Sins of Sal (Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands)

Best International Restaurant Bar: Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM&C)

  • ARCA Tulum (Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico)
  • Aruba Day Drink Bar (Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico)
  • Bar Carmen Medellín (Medellín, Aburrá Valley, Colombia)
  • Casa Prunes (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • CoChinChina (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • Jardín Tragos y Pasteles (Bogotá, Colombia)
  • Lady Bee (Lima, Peru)
  • Mamba Negra (Medellín, Aburrá Valley, Colombia)
  • Niño Gordo (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • Tan Tan (São Paulo, Brazil)

Best International Restaurant Bar: Middle East & Africa (MEA)

  • Amelia Restaurant & Lounge (Dubai, UAE)
  • Asoka (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • Bôndai Restaurant & Bar (Accra, Ghana)
  • COYA Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Funky Monkey (Diani Beach, Kwale County, Kenya)
  • LPM Restaurant & Bar Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Mimi Kakushi (Dubai, UAE)
  • Roka Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • Upper Union (Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa)
  • Zuma Dubai (Dubai, UAE)

Best New International Cocktail Bar presented by Diageo Bar Academy

Best New International Cocktail Bar: Asia Pacific (APAC)

  • Apollo Inn (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
  • Bar Leone (Hong Kong, China)
  • Bar Us (Bangkok, Thailand)
  • Cat Bite Club (Singapore)
  • El Primo Sanchez (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia)
  • Fura (Singapore)
  • Puffy Bois Pizza (Singapore)
  • The Savory Project (Hong Kong, China)
  • The Waratah (Sydney, New South Wales, Australia)
  • Tokyo Confidential (Tokyo, Honshu, Japan)

Best New International Cocktail Bar: Canada

  • Bar Bello (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Bar Bisou Bisou (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Bar Dominion (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Bon Délire (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  • Charlie’s Watch Repair (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)
  • Electric Bill Bar (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Humboldt Bar at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites (Victoria, British Columbia, Canada)
  • LE TIGRE (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  • Must be the Place (Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada)
  • Overpressure Club (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

Best New International Cocktail Bar: Europe*

  • Abstract Bistrot (Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France)
  • Bar Llama (Madrid, Spain)
  • Bar Nouveau (Paris, Île-de-France, France)
  • Dram Bar (London, England, UK)
  • Equal Parts (London, England, UK)
  • Groovy Fluids (Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands)
  • Rumore (Milan, Lombardy, Italy)
  • Savoy Brasserie & Bar at Mandarin Oriental Savoy (Zürich, Switzerland)
  • The Honey Moon (Paris, Île-de-France, France)
  • Twice Shy (London, England, UK)
  • Vesper Bar at The Dorchester (London, England, UK)
  • Viajante87 (London, England, UK)
  • Wacky Wombat (London, England, UK)

Best New International Cocktail Bar: Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM&C)

  • 1929 Cocktail Bar (Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico)
  • Alofah Tiki Bar (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • Bijou Drinkery Room (Mexico City, Mexico)
  • Booze The Bar Room (Lima, Peru)
  • Cielo Bar (La Paz, Pedro Domingo Murillo, Bolivia)
  • Cocktail & Bites (Bayamón, Puerto Rico)
  • Hoja Santa (Aguascalientes, Mexico)
  • SOFÁ – un bar (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
  • The Dilly Club (Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas)
  • The M Bar at Nobu Hotel Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico)

Best New International Cocktail Bar: Middle East & Africa (MEA)

  • 7 Tales at Grosvenor House (Dubai, UAE)
  • Kōzo Kigali (Kigali, Rwanda)
  • Ling Ling at Atlantis The Royal (Dubai, UAE)
  • Mii-Yao (Beirut, Lebanon)
  • Moonshine (Dubai, UAE)
  • No.19 Accra (Accra, Ghana)
  • SOON Izakaya (Dubai, UAE)
  • Soul Kitchen Dubai (Dubai, UAE)
  • The Smiths (Lagos, Nigeria)
  • Uchi DIFC (Dubai, UAE)

 

Note: An asterisk denotes a category with more than 10 honorees due to a tie.

Image: Shutterstock. Disclaimer: This image was generated by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform.

KRG Hospitality. Bar Consultant. Nightclub. Lounge. Mixology. Cocktails.

by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

USBG Announces First-ever Book

Serving Up History: USBG Announces First-ever Book

by David Klemt

Open book resting on its spine

Coming out in May, the United States Bartenders’ Guild has written a book that shares the story of the first 50 years of this crucial advocacy organization.

It’s not often that I publish a press release on its own. However, I find this announcement so important and interesting that I’m going to let the release do the talking.

I’ll be including this book in an upcoming monthly roundup. For now, please read the release below for more information.

Cheers!

LIQUID LEGACY: A TIMELESS TRIBUTE TO THE FOUNDERS OF THE UNITED STATES BARTENDERS’ GUILD TO DEBUT MAY 2024

War, Peace, James Dean, and the First 50 Years of the USBG…Through the Eyes of the Bartenders Who Started It All

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, MARCH 14, 2024 – The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) today announces the release of its first book Liquid Legacy: A Timeless Tribute to the Founders of the United States Bartenders’ Guild. The book will initially be available at the shop at usbg.org.

While plenty has been written about yesterday’s and today’s hospitality scene and the operations behind it, few have undertaken a deep dive into the role bartenders play in society and their communities. From neighborhood organizing, labor movements, and equal rights, to late nights, spirits history, and the story of the bar that served James Dean his last drink – a glass of milk, Liquid Legacy is sure to join the canon of must-have volumes for anyone interested in the hospitality industry.

Jose Acona, Co-founder, former President, and Lifetime Member of the United States Bartenders Guild, opens this historic look at the nation’s only guild for bartenders with the admission that “while the rich history of our Guild cannot be traced back in its entirety, this collection is an amazing celebration of what was accomplished in the first 50 years. If you are a bartender, you need to read this book.”

The Guild traces its roots across the Atlantic to early 20th century Europe as the hospitality industry up-ticked with new taverns and places to drink opening at a rapid pace and requiring plenty of employees to staff them. Bar staff gathered regularly to discuss professional matters, leading to the formation of the International Barkeepers Union, in Cologne, Germany, by 3 Germans and 2 Americans. After a sharp downturn over the following 35 years owing to two world wars, a drought in the US, and Prohibition, bartenders got back to legally plying their trade around 1933.

Over the next fifty years, bartenders created and rode drink trends, striving to deliver the very best experience for their guests.

After bartenders in California formed the first American offshoot chapter of the United Kingdom Bartenders’ Guild in 1948, competitions became a proving ground that hatched the next wave of cocktail trends. The book highlights the winners of the USBG’s National Competition, from Charles Berner’s 1950 win with the Bernice, a combination of vodka, Galliano, Pernod, lime and simple syrup, all the way through the 1998 winner, Conga Line, from Jose Rusieco.

The winners, and other competitors, were passionate bartenders, like Egidio “Angus” Angerosa who was a founder of the UKBG and a founding member of the California chapter.  This chapter eventually spawned the USBG and is the first US-based stepping stone that brings us to modern bartending legends like Tony Abou-Ganim, Dale DeGroff, Charles Joly, Bridget Albert, Tiffanie Barriere, Martin Cate, Jen Ackrill, Julio Cabrera, and more.

These trailblazers have their own take on historic cocktails, all of which can be found in the pages of Liquid Legacy along with the recipes of the USBG’s National Competition winners from the first 50 years of the Guild.

Follow the USBG through multiple social media channels: IG/FB/TWITTER: @usbg/@TheUSBG/@TheUSBG.

About the United States Bartenders’ Guild

Founded in 1948, the United States Bartenders’ Guild® is the national, member-led not-for-profit association of bartenders and other hospitality professionals that unites and elevates the bar industry through education, community, and advocacy. Through its network, the USBG connects members with peer-to-peer learning, expert instruction, service projects, and skills-based competition, all while fostering a fun and healthy environment and reinforcing the importance of the ‘third place’ in neighborhoods across the country.

Image: Brandi Redd on Unsplash

KRG Hospitality. Bar Consultant. Nightclub. Lounge. Mixology. Cocktails.

by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Bar Hacks Celebrates World Bartender Day

35 Bar Hacks Podcast Episodes for World Bartender Day

by David Klemt

Black microphone and pop filter with purple light

This Saturday, February 24, we celebrate World Bartender Day, so here are 35 Bar Hacks episodes featuring some of our favorite people in the bar business.

We’ve had the honor of speaking with incredibly talented, humble, and generous bartenders. Below you’ll find the Spotify and Apple Podcasts links to nearly three-dozen of these informative and entertainment conversations.

Please join us in thanking your bartenders on Saturday. And if you’re an operator, we encourage you to come up with a way to celebrate your bar team to show them your appreciation.

Cheers!

Episode 109 with Colin Asare-Appiah

Host David Klemt had the opportunity to chat with Colin Asare-Appiah, an industry icon he’s wanted to talk to for many years. Colin is Bacardí’s trade director of multiculture and lifestyle, and the brand’s LGBTQIA+ advocate. Not only does he spread the message of diversity, equity, and inclusion, he believes (as does KRG Hospitality and Bar Hacks) that diversity is necessary for our industry to thrive.

In this episode you’ll learn about Colin Asare-Appiah’s journey through hospitality, which includes saying he’d never be a bartender to becoming a bartender and creating a bartending school; his thoughts on what makes a successful operator and team; cocktail and spirits trends for 2024; the AJABU cocktail festival coming to South Africa in March of this year, spearheaded by Colin and his partner Mark Talbot Holmes; and more.

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Episode 107 with Anne Becerra

Anne Becerra is the first female Certified Cicerone in New York City and has been working in beer for more than a decade. More importantly, however, she’s as passionate as she is educated about beer. Anne’s also passionate about hospitality, which comes across in this conversation. Truly, she loves hospitality, the beverage world, and how the two pair to make people feel amazing.

On this episode Anne talks introducing guests to beer; serving beer aficionados, beer neophytes, and the beer wary; how to make guests feel comfortable in a beer-centric concept; what she’s excited about in the beer world; tips for operators who want to succeed with a beer-forward venue; and much, much more. Cheers!

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Episode 106 with Matthias Ingelmann

Since opening their doors, KOL Restaurant has found its way onto the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, and Kol Mezcaleria can be found on the World’s 50 Best Disovery tool. The upscale Mexican restaurant and bar, co-owned by Chef Santiago Lastra, celebrates Mexican culture and traditions hand in hand with British ingredients. They’re also currently participating in the 14th annual London Cocktail Week.

KOL bar manager Matthias Ingelmann dropped by the Bar Hacks podcast while he and the team prepared for service. On this episode, Matthias talks agave spirits; introducing guests to artisanal and ancestral agave spirits along with Mexican rum, gin, and whiskey; planning for seasonality and menu changes; maintaining the familiar while offering new menu items; honoring Mexican culture with this fusion concept; what he looks for in team members; and more.

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Episode 104 with Simone Caporale

Simone Caporale, an internationally renowned bartender and operator, swings by the Bar Hacks podcast to talk spirits, branding, the guest experience, and operations.

Noticing a gap in the industry and seeing a way to lend his expertise to help grow spirits brands, Simone and Luca Missagli founded Cocktail Concierge, a brand-building agency focusing on craft spirits brands. One of the most recent brands Cocktail Concierge has helped introduce to the world is Amaro Santoni.

Of course, Simone is also one of forces behind SIPS Drinkery House, number three on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, and the World’s Best Bar according to Tales of the Cocktail. Simone shares his thoughts on what he thinks makes SIPS so successful, why he views service as a privilege, three tips operators can implement today to plant the seeds for long-term success, and more!

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Episode 103 with Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr. Lyan, part 2

Ryan Chetiyawardana, also known as Mr. Lyan, returns to the Bar Hacks podcast! Ten years ago, Ryan opened the first bar in what would become the Mr. Lyan empire, White Lyan. This innovative venue set the tone for Ryan and the team’s approach to creating bars.

On this episode of the Bar Hacks podcast, Ryan shares details of the ten-year celebrations; what it means to him to have reached the ten-year operator milestone; lessons learned over the course of more than ten years running bars; what people can expect from the re-release of his book Good Things to Drink with Mr Lyan and Friends, now with brand-new content and a new title, Mr Lyan’s Cocktails at Home: Good Things to Drink with Friends; and more!

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Episode 102 with Jordan Bushell

Global Hennessy brand ambassador Jordan Bushell returns to the Bar Hacks podcast. While Jordan may know people with more Cognac knowledge, we don’t know anyone who knows more about this spirit category. More importantly, he’s as generous with his time as he is knowledgeable about Cognac. If you have a question about the spirit of Hennessy you can reach out to him and he’ll answer you.

On this episode of Bar Hacks, Jordan talks about special Hennessy releases, initiatives, collaborations, and what sets the maison apart from others in the Cognac region of France. He also talks about how operators can introduce guests to Cognac and Hennessy, including paying attention how they price their menus. Cheers!

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Episode 101 with Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr. Lyan

Ryan Chetiyawardana, also known as Mr. Lyan, is one of the bar world’s true visionaries. He opened his first bar, White Lyan, in 2013 and the venue immediately achieved its intended purpose. Beyond being an award-winning bar and one of London’s best places to grab a drink, White Lyan started a much-needed conversation about sustainability in the industry.

Dandelyan, Lyaness, Super Lyan, Cub, and Silver Lyan would follow shortly after, making an even bigger splash not only in London but also Amsterdam and Washington, DC. All Mr. Lyan venues, while showcasing incredible innovation, accomplish something just as important: each bar is a place people to want to spend their time and money, and where professionals want to work.

During this fantastic conversation, Ryan shares insights into the menu programming processes at each venue; discusses seasonality; provides a look into hiring and engaging each team; the reissue of his book and his foray into the RTD cocktail space; and much more.

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Episode 99 with Michele Mariotti

Bartender Michele Mariotti leads an illustrious career. He has worked behind the bars at some of the best hotels around the world, including the Savoy in London and Mandarin Oriental in Singapore.

As of 2020, Michele has held the title head of bars at the Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, Scotland. In this role, he heads the programs at 11 F&B venues on the property, overseeing dozens of bar professionals.

On this episode, Michele and Bar Hacks podcast host David Klemt talk about mentorship, interviewing potential bartenders, menu development, using a flavor map when assigning new cocktail builds to bar team members, finding inspiration, interesting hotel guests, bespoke glassware, investing in platforms and programs that boost staff retention, and more.

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Episode 96 with Lynnette Marrero

You know about RTDs, but what about RTEs? Lynnette Marrero returns to the Bar Hacks podcast, dialing in from a very cool hybrid restaurant-work concept in Cincinnati to talk about Delola, the recently launched premium ready-to-enjoy cocktail brand.

The House of Delola was founded by Jennifer Lopez with the mission of launching premium, sophisticated RTE cocktails. The core lineup consists of three spritzes crafted in collaboration with bartending, mixology, and hospitality icon Lynnette Marrero. A truly collaborative effort, Lynnette created bold yet refreshing spritzes that resonate with JLo’s party personality, Lola.

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Episode 95 with Bob Peters

Bob Peters has big news to share, and you can hear in his voice how excited he is to share it with everyone. He’s taking on the perfect role. In fact, he calls it his dream job during this episode. Cocktails and cuisine are about to get even better in North Carolina and South Carolina…

But it doesn’t stop there! Bob also shares his approach to bar training to make sure everyone is engaged; his assessment of the Charlotte dining and drinking scene; a simple step all restaurants and bars can take today to improve operations, team engagement, and the guest experience; a very cool project he’s taking on; and more.

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Episode 93 with Adrián Michalčík

Adrián Michalčík is the director of mixology at the award-winning Pier 42 inside the Amerikalinjen hotel in Oslo, Norway. The bar has been recognized by the World’s 50 Best and has won Best Bar of Norway twice. In addition to taking home the title of 2022 Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year, Adrián has won several bartending competitions throughout the years.

He popped by the Bar Hacks podcast to chat with host David Klemt about his bartender journey. Adrián has worked in several types of bars and each helped him develop the skills that allowed him to elevate his skills behind the bar. Mentors, his endless quest for knowledge, his passion for hosting others, and his focus on empathy have informed his approach to team building, delivering top-level hospitality, and tapping into his creativity to develop Pier 42’s cocktail menus.

Adrián shares the three pillars he believes great bars are built upon, what he looks for in bar team members, transforming people from guests to friends, the importance of storytelling, and much more.

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Episode 91 with Charles Joly

Industry icon, bar educator, entrepreneur, and bartender Charles Joly drops by the Bar Hacks podcast to chat with host David Klemt. The two discuss Charles’ start and his journey from the trenches to opening Chicago’s Drawing Room, and also his role at the city’s legendary Aviary. Charles also talks about Crafthouse Cocktails, the premium ready-to-serve brand, and his barware label Crafthouse by Fortessa. Interestingly, his love of bar history and vintage barware design not only informs his own designs, it manifests in Telltail Vintage, his Instagram shop. Not one to sit still for long, Charles is also involved in craft ice startup Abstract Ice.

The conversation also touches on spirits categories that appear to be dominating or otherwise seeing a big lift; advice for aspiring career bartenders; and advice for operators who want to succeed in today’s restaurant and bar world.

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Episode 84 with Roberta Mariani

Bar Hacks host David Klemt sits down with Roberta Mariani, Global Brand Ambassador for MARTINI. The two discuss a range of topics, including Roberta’s journey through hospitality, lessons learned working at some of the best hotels in London and opening Bar Tremini in Soho, the guest experience, aperitivo culture, and more. Roberta and David also discuss why now might be the best time to introduce guests to Aperitivo Hour as an alternative to Happy Hour, the Negroni Sbagliato “controversy,” MARTINI’s Non-Alcoholic range, and the cocktails need to put on their menus to bring aperitivo culture into their restaurants, bars, and hotels.

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Episode 81 with Paul Mathew

Paul Mathew, bartender, bar owner, and founder of Everleaf, sits down with Bar Hacks podcast co-host David Klemt. In this fun and informative episode, Paul shares his journey through bartending and bar ownership, and his entry into the drinks business. Non-alcoholic aperitif brand Everleaf is the culmination of Paul’s many years as a conservationist botanist, knowledge of plants, and nearly 30 years in the bar business.

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Episode 59 with Theo Rutherford

Whiskey expert, spirits judge, and sommelier Theo Rutherford stops by the Bar Hacks podcast to talk about Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon, a prominent addition to the Deutsch Family of wine and spirits. Theo shares the Bib & Tucker brand story, what sets the brand apart from other bourbons, and why the 6 Year expression appeals to all categories of whiskey drinkers. He also shares tips for tasting bourbon, including how easily Bib & Tucker wins over non-whiskey drinkers. Listen now to learn why Theo wants you to smell everything and stop swirling your whiskey at tastings.

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Episode 58 with Ivy Mix and Conor McKee

Ivy Mix returns to the Bar Hacks podcast with Conor McKee, a partner in her off-premise endeavor FIASCO Wine and Spirits. Mix, McKee and third partner Piper Kristensen signed FIASCO’s lease a month before the pandemic halted life as we knew it in its tracks. So, they spent the next several months doing demolition and renovation. This conversation highlights the importance of partnering with the right people, even if that means having different partners for different projects; setting aside ego to ask partners who may know more about your new business than you; and leveraging your shared experience to deliver the best service possible to your clientele. If you’ve wondered about taking your on-premise experience to the off-premise space, this is a can’t-miss episode!

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Episode 57 with Collin De Laval

Código 1530 not only has an intriguing story, the brand values authenticity and heritage. Company mixologist Collin De Laval stops by the Bar Hacks podcast to share the Código 1530 story with co-host David Klemt. The two discuss Código’s notable past, handmade approach to their entire production process, innovative products, unique foray into mezcal, shooting high-end spirits, and more.

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Episode 54 with Ivy Mix and Lynnette Marrero

Speed Rack co-founders Ivy Mix and Lynnette Marrero come on the podcast to talk about breast cancer awareness and the role the all-female high-speed bartending competition plays in raising money for breast cancer research. Mix and Marrero also share their thoughts on nurturing work cultures that promote women, creating venues that are safe for female guests and staff, how to approach mentorship, their favorite spirits, and more.

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Episode 52 with Lynn House

Lynn House, national spirits specialist and portfolio mixologist for Heaven Hill, drops by Bar Hacks to speak with host David Klemt about the second annual Old Fashioned Week. Elijah Craig is seeking to raise at least $100,000 for the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation, an advocacy and action nonprofit created by and for restaurant workers.

Lynn and David also discuss bourbon, rye, hospitality, building balanced cocktails, and how trust plays a role in educating guests so you and your team can introduce them to new drinks and experiences.

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Episode 50 with Travis Tober

Episode 50! The only way to celebrate such a big milestone is with an incredible guest. We’re excited to bring you Travis Tober of Nickel City and Old Pal. Travis and his partners opened the first Nickel City in Austin in 2017. The Forth Worth location opened its doors during the pandemic in October 2020. Travis then opened Old Pal in Lockhart, TX, just a few months ago.

In our 50th episode, Travis explains the difference between a dive bar and a neighborhood bar, and notes that both Nickel City locations are “anytime bars” that welcome everyone. He also shares his hospitality journey, which saw him go from Buffalo, NY, to Florida, Las Vegas, and ultimately Texas; tips for staying on brand; hiring and retaining team members; how the hospitality industry is the entertainment industry; supporting the community during a crazy winter storm; location scouting; how there’s no better time to open a bar or restaurant than right now; and much more.

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Episode 47 with Tony Abou-Ganim

The legend, the icon, the one and only Tony Abou-Ganim stops by Bar Hacks to chat with co-host David Klemt. The two discuss this year’s Helen David Relief Fund at the USBG Foundation fundraising events, Helen David and the Brass Rail’s legacy, current drink trends, and more.

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Episode 45 with Bob Peters

Revered bar pro Bob Peters swings by the Bar Hacks podcast to chat with co-host David Klemt about a wide array of topics: his love-hate relationship with the words “pivot” and “layered”; lessons learned over more than two decades behind the bar; hiring and training bar staff; how he always seems to have the coolest new bar equipment, including the new Ripples 2.0 and Stündenglass gravity smoker; Bob’s current go-to cocktail, spirit, beer and wine; and so much more. You’ll also learn about Bob’s exciting new endeavor, CocktailClass.com. You don’t want to miss this episode. Strap in—this is a fun one!

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Episode 40 with Trevor Schneider

We’re excited to present episode 40! For the big four-oh we speak with Trevor Schneider, the United States Reyka Vodka brand ambassador. Trevor shares what sets Reyka apart from other vodkas and brands, lessons learned during a career in which he worked at several types of bars throughout New York City, surviving the weeds with the Bartender Ballet, his preferred Espresso Martini recipe, vodka infusions, and more!

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Episode 39 with Anthony “Terry” Bohlinger

Anthony “Terry” Bohlinger, national brand ambassador for new William Grant & Sons whiskey brand Fistful of Bourbon, drops by Bar Hacks. Terry talks with podcast co-host David Klemt about launching a brand during a pandemic, representing an irreverent brand that doesn’t take itself too seriously, the hilarious videos Fistful of Bourbon created to introduce the brand, lessons learned during his journey in hospitality, and more.

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Episode 36 with Jordan Bushell

Global Ambassador and engaging educator for storied brand Hennessy, Jordan Bushell, swings by Bar Hacks to chat with host David Klemt. When he attended a bartending class with a buddy he had no idea it would lead to celebrating three major Hennessy milestones over the course of a decade. The two talk about Master Blender’s Selection No. 4, how to share Cognac knowledge with bar teams and consumers, menu tricks, and much, much more.

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Episode 32 with Michael Toscano

Woodford Reserve brand ambassador Michael Toscano stops by to talk about the Kentucky Derby, crafting the perfect Mint Julep, maximizing the operator-brand-rep relationship, and more.

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Episode 28 with Tim Rita

Lyre’s Spirits crafts alcohol-free spirits that masterfully mimic their full-proof counterparts. Host David Klemt sits down with Lyre’s brand ambassador, bartender and buddy Tim Rita to chat about the brand. In this episode you’ll learn about one of the fastest-growing brands in one of the fastest-growing beverage categories.

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Episode 27 with Armon Noori

It’s tax season and hospitality industry professionals have unique needs. Luckily, we have unique industry friends! Host David Klemt speaks with Armon Noori, an incredible Las Vegas bartender who also has a finance degree and an entrepreneurial spirit. Armon opened a tax preparation and financial services company called Industry Financial Services this with the mission of helping his fellow industry peers.

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Episode 26 with Katie Stryjewski a.k.a. Garnish Girl

The Garnish Girl herself, Katie Stryjewski, dropped by the Bar Hacks podcast to talk with host David Klemt. Katie talks about her new book Cocktails, Mocktails, and Garnishes from the Garden, available today! This book is loaded with delicious recipes along with helpful information to elevate your drinks and grow your own ingredients and garnishes. Katie shares some of her favorite drinks, photography and social media tips, edible flowers, and more!

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Episode 25 with Megan Breier

Happy International Women’s Day! One of our favorite people in the industry—and in life in general—popped by to speak with Bar Hacks host David Klemt. Megan Breier is one of the most engaging, entertaining and knowledgeable educators in the hospitality and spirits industries. In this episode, Megan explains what sets Maker’s Mark apart from other bourbons, some of the amazing activations she’s executed, Private Selection, Maker’s 101, Margie Samuels’ contributions to the brand and industry, and more.

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Episode 20 with Vance Henderson

Host David Klemt kicks back and talks with Vance Henderson, national brand ambassador for Hendrick’s Gin. Before joining William Grant & Sons, Vance tended, managed and operated bars for several years. He proved himself at WG&S with Drambuie and then moved to Monkey Shoulder before taking on his role at Hendrick’s. He shares details of the brand-new Hendrick’s Lunar, his thoughts on branding, his best tips for hiring, and much more.

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Episode 17 with 86 Politicians, part 2

Part two of host David Klemt’s talk with bar operator Yan Agaev and bartender Holly Tripp, founders of 86 Politicians.

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Episode 16 with 86 Politicians, part 1

Part one of host David Klemt’s conversation with bar operator Yan Agaev and bartender Holly Tripp. Yan, fed up with how elected officials have continually damaged the hospitality industry throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, posted a video shot and edited by Holly that spread across social media like wildfire. The duo founded 86 Politicians, a peaceful grassroots movement intended to hold politicians accountable for the harm they’ve caused the industry and their inaction on targeted financial relief.

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Episode 14 with Joann Spiegel

In this episode, host David Klemt speaks with Joann Spiegel to dive deep into the global phenomenon that is Miracle, the annual Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up event. Back in 2014, nobody predicted how successful or expansive this event would become. Miracle has transformed into a juggernaut that involves months of careful planning, cocktail creation, logistics, partner liaisons, and much more behind-the-scenes preparation. The end result is a profitable and memorable pop-up that runs for 35 to 40 days.

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Episode 12 with Jared Boller

The new host of the Bar Hacks podcast chats with Jared Boller, Canadian National Whiskey Ambassador at Proximo Spirits. Tending bar gave him the opportunity to live, work and travel around the world. Currently, he represents brands like Bushmills and Proper No. Twelve at Proximo Spirits in Canada. Jared discusses his journey through the world of hospitality and how operators can benefit more from working with brand ambassadors.

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Cheers to the bartenders across the world!

Image: Los Muertos Crew on Pexels

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ITALICUS bottle surrounded by citrus fruits
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

The Sixth: Art of ITALICUS Returns

The Sixth: Art of ITALICUS Returns for 2024

by David Klemt

ITALICUS bottle surrounded by citrus fruits

Your bar team members have the opportunity to participate in the sixth-annual Art of ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge and win an invaluable prize.

There are multiple prizes, really. For example, national finals winners take the title of ITALICUS Bar Artist for their country, for 2024. They also walk away with a ticket to the global finals, which take place in Rome.

After the global finals, one winner will earn the title ITALICUS Bar Artist of the Year 2024. However, taking nothing away from this title, there’s another prize that I feel should drive every competitor to truly outshine their competition.

The ITALICUS Bar Artist of the Year will head to the incredible Cafe La Trova in Miami to participate in a mentorship program. Given that Julio Cabrera is such an influential member of the hospitality world, this prize represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Now, as an operator or leadership team member, you may wonder what this news has to do with you. It’s simple: Encouraging your bartenders to participate in this competition and others like it shows you care about their career progression.

Bar team members who want to take part in competitions get to show off their creativity to a wider audience, become known to brands, and network with peers outside of their local communities. They can also discover and bring back tips, techniques, and lessons to your bar, restaurant, nightclub, or hotel.

In this case, one bartender will return to their bar or restaurant with lessons from the Cafe La Trova team. That’s priceless insight that will benefit their entire team.

For crucial competition details, please read the Art of the ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge press release below.

Good luck to all of the participants!

ART OF ITALICUS APERITIVO CHALLENGE RETURNS FOR 2024 IN PURSUIT OF THE BEST ART-INSPIRED APERITIVO COCKTAIL

New York, NY (January 9, 2024) – Today, The Art of ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge returns for its sixth edition, inviting bartenders from around the world to create an original and unique aperitivo cocktail inspired by any form of art and crafted using ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto.

The Winner of the renowned industry challenge will be crowned ITALICUS Bar Artist of the Year 2024 and win a trip to Miami for a once in a lifetime mentorship program with Cafe La Trova by Julio Cabrera. Nominated in 2023 as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars, Cafe La Trova is the true embodiment of hospitality, welcoming guests with impeccable warmth, attention to detail and service, crafting a truly memorable experience for anyone who visits. The “cantinero culture,” which is synonymous with the venue, embraces the most important values of the cocktail industry, making it the perfect inspiration for the new Art of Italicus participants. As part of the prize, the 2024 ITALICUS Bar Artist will have the opportunity to experience what makes this bar truly special and discover one of the most vibrant art cultures in Miami’s iconic surroundings.

Reflecting the brand’s passion for Italian art and design, The Art of ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge is built on the belief that bartenders are artists and offers them the opportunity to expand their creativity whilst experimenting with new ingredients, techniques and glassware to showcase the versatility of ITALICUS. Each recipe must be in an aperitivo style and can be inspired by any form of art such as sculpture, painting, fashion, music, architecture and much more.

The competition will welcome entrants from 13 countries including Croatia/Slovenia, France, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Swiss, United Kingdom and the United States. Bartenders from other countries will be able to apply through a Wild Card entry, offering them the opportunity to win a spot at the global final in May in Rome.

Giuseppe Gallo, founder and CEO of ITALICUS, comments:

“Now in its sixth year, The Art of ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge celebrates aperitivo culture while encouraging bartenders to express their creativity, looking to art in its various forms as way of inspiration. Meeting with the industry’s emerging talent through this program gives me a great deal of pride and is something I hope continues for many years as a way of keeping our community connected, working together and empowering one another.”

The 2024 Competition

Competitors are tasked with creating an original aperitivo cocktail using a minimum of 40ml (1.5oz in US) of ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto and a maximum of five ingredients. Participating bartenders must upload their unique recipe alongside an image of their creation including measurements, garnishes and glassware recommendations to the competition website before February 20, 2024 in order to be in with a chance of winning. Competitors are also required to share their inspiration and the story behind their aperitivo cocktail and encouraged to suggest food pairings for their recipe.

Applications for The Art of ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge 2024 will be open from January 9 through February 20. Recipes can be submitted via the website: https://imbibemagazine.com/art-of-italicus/.

Entrants are also encouraged to share their creations on social media ahead of the competition, using the following hashtags: #ITALICUS #ROSOLIODIBERGAMOTTO #ARTOFITALICUS #AOI24

National Finals

The national finals will take place throughout March and April (March 4 – April 12) where the eight shortlisted bartenders will present their cocktail creation to the judging panel across eight minutes and including at least three serves. The winner of the national final will receive the title of ITALICUS Bar Artist of their country 2024 along with a ticket to participate in the global final which will be held in Rome.

Global Finals

On May 12, the national finalists will compete against one another in Rome in a bid to earn the coveted title of ITALICUS Bar Artist of the Year 2024 as well as a once in a lifetime opportunity and mentorship with one of the world’s most influential bars, Cafe La Trova by Julio Cabrera. During the trip to Miami, the winning bartender will be accompanied by a film crew who will document their experience and create a documentary video which will later be released on social media.

For further information on The Art of ITALICUS Aperitivo Challenge, please visit www.artofitalicus.com.

Image: ITALICUS

Bar Nightclub Pub Brewery Menu Development Drinks Food

Gold number 10 on a teal or aqua background
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

2023 KRG Recap: Top Bar Hacks Episodes

2023 KRG Recap: Top Bar Hacks Episodes

by David Klemt

Gold number 10 on a teal or aqua background

For your listening pleasure and convenience we’ve rounded up the top ten Bar Hacks episodes of 2023, also known as season four of the podcast.

Every year we reflect on the caliber of the guests who take time out of their busy lives to come onto the podcast. And every year we’re grateful for the honor of helping to share their stories and insights.

Below are the top ten Bar Hacks episodes of 2023. We’re presenting them in numeric order—no playing favorites here! To make it easy to enjoy these conversations, we’ve embedded the Spotify version of each episode.

And if you’re curious, these ten only just edge out the rest of this year’s episodes. We thank our loyal listeners for giving all of our guests and episodes a listen.

Cheers!

Episode 89 with Doug Radkey

Doug Radkey, co-founder and president of KRG Hospitality, stops by the Bar Hacks podcast. Not only is Doug the co-founder and president of KRG, he’s also the author of the book Bar Hacks and its followup Hacking the New Normal, and the creator of the Bar Hacks podcast.

During his visit, Doug and David talk about their expectations for 2023, what KRG is working on in the new year so far, the importance of technology in hospitality, and dynamic pricing versus dynamic menus. Doug also shares his thoughts on what operators can work on starting today to position themselves for success in 2023 and beyond.

Episode 90 with Mark Sansom

Mark Sansom, content director for the World’s 50 Best Bars, drops by the Bar Hacks podcast to share some big news. After years of dialing in the process and waiting out the pandemic, the World’s 50 Best Hotels will be revealed at a ceremony in September 2023! If you haven’t watched or attended a World’s 50 Best Bars ceremony, they truly take great pains to ensure they’re the Oscars of bar awards. So, we expect the World’s 50 Best Hotel awards ceremony to blow us out of the water.

This list and its accompanying specialty awards completes the hospitality and travel puzzle. Restaurants and bars, after all, are inextricably intertwined with hotels and resorts. Mark shares the details of the World’s 50 Best Hotels Academy Chairs, voting panel, and voting process in this episode. As a bonus, you’ll also get to hear host David Klemt try and fail to say “inaugural awards” without any issue!

Episode 93 with Adrián Michalčík

In September 2022, Adrián Michalčík earned the title of Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year. Colloquially, this achievement is known as the Best Bartender in the World. That’s a bold and weighty mantle but as you’ll learn during this conversation, Adrián is humble and focused on his team and guests.

Adrián is the director of mixology at the award-winning Pier 42 inside the Amerikalinjen hotel in Oslo, Norway. The bar has been recognized by the World’s 50 Best and has won Best Bar of Norway twice. In addition to taking home the title of 2022 Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year, Adrián has won several bartending competitions throughout the years.

He popped by the Bar Hacks podcast to chat with host David Klemt about his bartender journey. Adrián has worked in several types of bars and each helped him develop the skills that allowed him to elevate his skills behind the bar. Mentors, his endless quest for knowledge, his passion for hosting others, and his focus on empathy have informed his approach to team building, delivering top-level hospitality, and tapping into his creativity to develop Pier 42’s cocktail menus.

Adrián shares the three pillars he believes great bars are built upon, what he looks for in bar team members, transforming people from guests to friends, the importance of storytelling, and much more.

Episode 95 with Bob Peters

We know it’s been a few weeks. Between client projects and trade shows we had to take a little break. But we’re back!

And to make our absence up to you, our loyal listeners, we’re bringing you a great chat with an awesome guest. Bob Peters returns to the Bar Hacks podcast for episode 95!

Bob has big news to share, and you can hear in his voice how excited he is to share it with everyone. He’s taking on the perfect role. In fact, he calls it his dream job during this episode. Cocktails and cuisine are about to get even better in North Carolina and South Carolina…

But it doesn’t stop there! Bob also shares his approach to bar training to make sure everyone is engaged; his assessment of the Charlotte dining and drinking scene; a simple step all restaurants and bars can take today to improve operations, team engagement, and the guest experience; a very cool project he’s taking on; and more.

Episode 97 with Dragos Axinte

Dragos Axinte, the founder of Novo Fogo Organic Cachaça, returns to the Bar Hacks podcast. Axinte and Novo Fogo have been very busy since, his first appearance on the pod.

On this episode, Axinte shares the details and stories behind three important Novo Fogo initiatives and partnerships: Tree-keeper, with Seattle Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei, the Un-endangered Forest, and the brand’s new Chief Alegrias Officers (ChAOs), Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern, also known as SOFI TUKKER.

The two also discuss Axinte’s approach to partnerships—a philosophy that will serve operators and entrepreneurs very well—as well as distillers “discovering” amburana wood finishing. And, of course, Axinte shares product news and insights. If you’re headed to Tales of the Cocktail this year, you’re in for some incredible news. This conversation spans several topics and Axinte always imparts wisdom when he speaks in approachable and helpful ways.

Episode 99 with Michele Mariotti

Bartender Michele Mariotti leads an illustrious career. He has worked behind the bars at some of the best hotels around the world, including the Savoy in London and Mandarin Oriental in Singapore.

As of 2020, Michele has held the title head of bars at the Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, Scotland. In this role, he heads the programs at 11 F&B venues on the property, overseeing dozens of bar professionals.

On this episode, Michele and Bar Hacks podcast host David Klemt talk about mentorship, interviewing potential bartenders, menu development, using a flavor map when assigning new cocktail builds to bar team members, finding inspiration, interesting hotel guests, bespoke glassware, investing in platforms and programs that boost staff retention, and more.

Episode 101 with Ryan Chetiyawardana a.k.a. Mr. Lyan

Ryan Chetiyawardana, also known as Mr. Lyan, is one of the bar world’s true visionaries. He opened his first bar, White Lyan, in 2013 and the venue immediately achieved its intended purpose. Beyond being an award-winning bar and one of London’s best places to grab a drink, White Lyan started a much-needed conversation about sustainability in the industry.

Dandelyan, Lyaness, Super Lyan, Cub, and Silver Lyan would follow shortly after, making an even bigger splash not only in London but also Amsterdam and Washington, DC. All Mr. Lyan venues, while showcasing incredible innovation, accomplish something just as important: each bar is a place people to want to spend their time and money, and where professionals want to work.

During this fantastic conversation, Ryan shares insights into the menu programming processes at each venue; discusses seasonality; provides a look into hiring and engaging each team; the reissue of his book and his foray into the RTD cocktail space; and much more. Cheers!

Episode 102 with Jordan Bushell

Thank you for being patient during our summer hiatus. We’re back with a great conversation with an awesome guest.

Global Hennessy brand ambassador Jordan Bushell returns to the Bar Hacks podcast. While Jordan may know people with more Cognac knowledge, we don’t know anyone who knows more about this spirit category. More importantly, he’s as generous with his time as he is knowledgeable about Cognac. If you have a question about the spirit of Hennessy you can reach out to him and he’ll answer you.

On this episode of Bar Hacks, Jordan talks about special Hennessy releases, initiatives, collaborations, and what sets the maison apart from others in the Cognac region of France. He also talks about how operators can introduce guests to Cognac and Hennessy, including paying attention how they price their menus. Cheers!

Episode 104 with Simone Caporale

Simone Caporale, an internationally renowned bartender and operator, swings by the Bar Hacks podcast to talk spirits, branding, the guest experience, and operations.

Noticing a gap in the industry and seeing a way to lend his expertise to help grow spirits brands, Simone and Luca Missagli founded Cocktail Concierge, a brand-building agency focusing on craft spirits brands. One of the most recent brands Cocktail Concierge has helped introduce to the world is Amaro Santoni.

Of course, Simone is also one of forces behind SIPS Drinkery House, number three on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, and the World’s Best Bar according to Tales of the Cocktail. Simone shares his thoughts on what he thinks makes SIPS so successful, why he views service as a privilege, three tips operators can implement today to plant the seeds for long-term success, and more!

Episode 107 with Anne Becerra

When it comes to curating a beer program, creating a complementary cocktail program, and delivering an incredible beer program, we can’t think of anyone better than Anne Becerra. And lucky for us, she stopped by the Bar Hacks podcast!

Anne is the first female Certified Cicerone in New York City and has been working in beer for more than a decade. More importantly, however, she’s as passionate as she is educated about beer. Anne’s also passionate about hospitality, which comes across in this conversation. Truly, she loves hospitality, the beverage world, and how the two pair to make people feel amazing.

On this episode Anne talks introducing guests to beer; serving beer aficionados, beer neophytes, and the beer wary; how to make guests feel comfortable in a beer-centric concept; what she’s excited about in the beer world; tips for operators who want to succeed with a beer-forward venue; and much, much more. Cheers!

Image: Miguel Á. Padriñán on Pexels

KRG Hospitality. Bar Consultant. Nightclub. Lounge. Mixology. Cocktails.

Josué Gonzaléz for the Rémy Martin "Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa" campaign
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Rémy Martin Pays Homage to Sobremesa

Rémy Martin Pays Homage to Sobremesa

by David Klemt

Josué Gonzaléz for the Rémy Martin "Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa" campaign

Mixologist Josué Gonzaléz for the Rémy Martin “Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa” campaign

Rémy Martin is teaming up with the Hispanic Restaurant Association to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring a post-dinner tradition.

That tradition, an important element of a number of Hispanic cultures, is called “sobremesa.” Translating to “at the table” or “upon the table,” sobremesa is the period of time after a meal during which people relax, chat, and digest.

This is, of course, one of the most important elements of a great meal and gathering of friends and family. While sobremesa may fly in the face of the “turn-and-burn” approach to operation, a hallmark of a wonderful time out at a restaurant is the post-meal vibe.

Are guests lingering with smiles on their faces, ordering post-dinner drinks and chatting, giving off a good energy? That would indicate an operator and their team have delivered excellent service and a memorable guest experience.

To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and sobremesa, Rémy Martin is launching a new campaign: “Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa.”

 

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Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa

A core element of this collaboration between Rémy Martin and the Hispanic Restaurant Association is bringing food and beverage together.

To achieve this, Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa is bringing together three influential F&B professionals.

Chef Paola Velez for the Rémy Martin "Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa" campaign

Hailing from the Bronx with a career that has brought her to Washington, DC, Chef Paola Velez is an entrepreneur, activist, and the founder of Bakers Against Racism.

Chef Carlos Gaytán for the Rémy Martin "Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa" campaign

A restaurateur with restaurants in Mexico and Chicago—and his sights on California’s dining scene—Chef Carlos Gaytán is the first Mexican-born chef to earn a Michelin star.

Miami native and revered bartender Josué Gonzaléz brings an understanding of the culinary to his craft, beginning his journey in hospitality as a Johnson & Wales culinary student. His résumé includes some of the best bars and restaurants in America.

This powerhouse trio has been tasked with creating cocktails and culinary pairings that feature Rémy Martin and shine a spotlight on sobremesa. Their hard work will be showcased through immersive experiences throughout the US. Click here for Chef Velez’s recipes, here for Chef Gaytán’s creations, and here for Gonzaléz’s recipes.

However, Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa doesn’t stop with the conclusion of a meal. Rémy Martin, the Hispanic Restaurant Association, and their featured chefs and bartender also seek to add a new element to sobremesa.

Rather than sobremesa representing the end of a night out, Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa aims to transform the tradition into the start. In other words, “last call” now signals “the first call of the rest of the night.” Instead of asking, “When can we do this again,” the campaign encourages friends and family to ask, “What’s next tonight?”

The Mambo Mango Royale

To provide an idea of the creations coming from the Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa collaborations, here’s a cocktail recipe from Josué Gonzaléz.

  • 1.5 oz Rémy Martin Tercet
  • 0.75 oz Mango Syrup
  • 0.5 oz Lemon Juice
  • Bar spoon Galliano
  • Champagne to top
  • Decorative mango and edible flower to garnish

Add the first four ingredients and ice to a shaker. Shake vigorously for about ten seconds, then add a splash of Champagne. Pour into a flute or cocktail coupe, then garnish.

For more information, please read the press release below in its entirety. Cheers!

RÉMY MARTIN LAUNCHES ‘QUE VIVA RÉMY SOBREMESA’ CAMPAIGN TO CELEBRATE HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH AND HONOR THE CHERISHED SOBREMESA TRADITION

Notable culinary and cocktail personalities come together to share custom recipes featuring Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and Tercet and create lively experiences while embracing cultures of excellence and the tradition of Sobremesa

NEW YORK—To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Rémy Martin is launching Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa, an homage to Sobremesa, the post-dining tradition found throughout many Hispanic cultures. The campaign brings influential culinary and mixology tastemakers together, including award-winning chefs Carlos Gaytán and Paola Velez, and renowned Mixologist Josué Gonzaléz, to create a variety of curated cocktails featuring Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and Tercet along with culinary pairings showcasing how Sobremesa comes to life across different Hispanic cultures. The tastemakers and their pairings will be presented at a series of immersive events across the country.

With nearly 300 years of excellence producing Cognac Fine Champagne and symbolizing the diversity of craft and tradition, Rémy Martin continues to be at the forefront of moments that bring people together. As the kickoff to Hispanic Heritage Month, Rémy Martin is immersing cocktail connoisseurs in Sobremesa, a tradition where one finds themself lost in deep conversation – talking, sipping cocktails and spending time with those who matter most – often for hours after dining.

Getting lost in conversation and savoring the post-dinner experience is the essence of Sobremesa and with Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa, Rémy Martin will challenge the notion of “last call” by signaling Sobremesa as the start of the night ahead. After all, the most dispiriting words heard when you’re out are “last call” and “kitchen’s closed” – but with Rémy Martin the last call can now be the first call of the rest of the night.

“Rémy Martin’s passion for excellence, family values and traditions offer a moment for us all to partake in Sobremesa and we are thrilled to be teaming up with a variety of notable personalities to kick off the celebration this Hispanic Heritage Month,” said Tina Reejsinghani, Vice President of Luxury Brands at Rémy Cointreau Americas. “Enjoying classic recipes and sparking conversations around the table is at the heart of Hispanic heritage and Rémy Martin is excited to lead in the festivities of the time-honored tradition.”

As part of the campaign and the brand’s ongoing commitment to advancing the world of gastronomy, Rémy Martin is teaming up with the Hispanic Restaurant Association (HRA) and their Global Ambassador, Chef Fernando Stovell to support and further the careers of aspiring chefs, culinary entrepreneurs, restaurant managers, and industry professionals within the Hispanic community, uplifting the next generation of gastronomic excellence.

“At the Hispanic Restaurant Association, our vision is focused on fostering education and uplifting the Hispanic community across generations,” said John Jaramillo, Co-Founder and CEO of the Hispanic Restaurant Association. “As we work to elevate the culinary artistry within the Hispanic community, our partnership with Rémy Martin will play an integral part in extending our mission and vision across the country, allowing us to continue fostering a richer culinary perspective and build lasting bridges within the community.”

Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, Rémy Martin will invite cocktail and culinary aficionados in New York and Miami to join the brand at the Rémy Martin Sobremesa Social Club. The events will feature lively entertainment alongside the unique dishes and cocktails curated by Carlos Gaytán, Paola Velez and Josué Gonzaléz, each inspired by their backgrounds. Chef Carlos, Chef Paola and Josué Gonzaléz will make appearances at the events, to showcase their creations and celebrate Sobremesa with guests. For more information and to purchase tickets for a VIP table experience, please visit Rémy Martin Sobremesa Social Club. Proceeds will benefit the Hispanic Restaurant Association.

Rémy Martin will also be capturing the essence of the Sobremesa tradition with a series of curated craft cocktails that highlight the opulent and complex flavor profiles of Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal and Rémy Martin Tercet. To keep the flavors going strong and accentuate each Rémy Martin expression, world-renowned chefs Carlos Gaytán and Paola Velez and Mixologist Josué Gonzaléz have created a variety of culinary and cocktail recipes representing their own cultures. From the Flamingo 1738 cocktail inspired by Josué’s childhood in Cuba and Chef Carlos’s nod to the sweet and savory elements of Mexican cooking with the Foie and Chocolate dish, to Chef Paola’s Nutmeg Pavlova recipe which combines her Dominican roots with the flavors of autumn, this campaign will take patrons on a culinary journey around the world.

The Que Viva Rémy Sobremesa campaign was developed in collaboration with creative agency FRED & FARID New York and will be featured across billboards and kiosks in Houston, TX; Los Angeles, CA; Miami, FL and New York, NY in addition to digital media and social content throughout Hispanic Heritage Month. For more information on the campaign, recipes and events, visit RemyMartin.com and follow along on social media on Instagram @RemyMartinUS | Twitter @RemyMartinUS | Facebook RemyMartinUSA

#QueVivaRemySobremesa #TeamUpForExcellence

ABOUT RÉMY MARTIN

Since 1724, the House of Rémy Martin has produced premium spirits that consistently appeal to the world’s most discerning connoisseurs. A profound love of the land, a continuity of family ownership and a passionate commitment to excellence has sustained Rémy Martin for nearly three centuries. As a result of its masterful production and generations of tradition in Cognac, the House of Rémy Martin produces award winning Cognacs Fine Champagne including Rémy Martin® XO, which was named Cognac of the Year 2022 by USA Spirits Ratings, and The Cognac Masters gold medal winning Rémy Martin® Tercet®, Rémy Martin® 1738 Accord Royal and Rémy Martin® V.S.O.P.

ABOUT HISPANIC RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION

Looking ahead, our vision is focused on fostering education and uplifting the Hispanic community across generations. We aspire to create a comprehensive impact by fostering economic growth and entrepreneurial endeavours through a range of interconnected networks, educational platforms, events, and supportive infrastructure.

ABOUT CHEF CARLOS GAYTÁN

A native of Mexico, chef and restaurateur Carlos Gaytán has made his mark in the culinary industry. From a young age, he was enamored with cooking, exploring a full spectrum of flavor while perfecting heirloom recipes alongside his mother. With a seamless unification of his Mexican heritage and his love of French culinary style, Carlos became the first Mexican-born chef to earn a coveted Michelin star in 2013. Gaytán appeared on Bravo’s Top Chef in 2013 and has since been widely featured as a host and judge on numerous culinary programs. He has opened two award-winning restaurants — one in Mexico in 2017, and another in Chicago in 2019. In 2024, he will open three new restaurants in California.

ABOUT CHEF PAOLA VELEZ

Award-winning chef, entrepreneur and community activist Paola Velez is the multihyphenate for a new generation of lifestyle personalities. Growing up between the Bronx and the Dominican Republic, Velez is fluent in cultures of city and island life, bringing infectious positivity and a keen eye on the micro-trends of the moment to the table. Her unique perspective has catapulted her to the pages of Food & Wine, and garnered her a nomination for Rising Star Chef by the James Beard Foundation, “Pastry Chef of the Year” from Esquire and “Best New Chef” from Food & Wine. Most recently, Paola founded the organization Bakers Against Racism as a social community, connecting bakers and creatives all across the globe to fight against racism in all of its forms. Looking ahead, under her lifestyle brand Dōekï Dōekï, a reflection of her Afro-Latina heritage, Velez is launching a series of collaborations and pop-up dinners across the country in addition to her first cookbook in 2024.

ABOUT MIXOLOGIST JOSUÉ GONZALÉZ

Josué Gonzaléz is a Miami native with a true passion for hospitality. As a culinary student at Johnson & Wales University, he accepted a barback position at Zuma Miami to gain industry experience, setting a decorated front-of-house career into motion. Josué found a friend and mentor in renowned Miami bartender Rob Ferrara, helping both achieve great success with openings at Swine Southern Table & Bar, Lure Fishbar and The Rum Line. As an individual, Josué was named one of Zagat Miami’s 30 under 30 in 2014, and went on to win and place in the top of various cocktail competitions. As part of the opening team at Sweet Liberty Bar & Supply, Josué was integral in the venue as it was awarded Best New Cocktail Bar in America at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards.  In 2018 Josué moved to Washington DC to open and manage the bar at Seven Reasons, a Latin concept, with Enrique Limardo. The restaurant was named Best New Restaurant in America 2019 by Esquire Magazine. Josué brings his talents and experience back to Miami in his work with Unfiltered Hospitality where he makes experiences better for people in every facet of the service industry.

Image: Rémy Martin

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Flipping through an open book
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

5 Books to Read this Month: October 2022

5 Books to Read this Month: October 2022

by David Klemt

Flipping through an open book

This month’s engaging and informative book selections will help you develop next-level leadership skills and dial in your F&B menus.

To review September’s book recommendations, click here.

Let’s jump in!

Down and Out in Paradise: The Life of Anthony Bourdain

First things first: This biography by author Charles Leerhsen about chef and modern philosopher Anthony Bourdain isn’t authorized. However, this book purports to offer a deep dive into the late, revered chef’s life, from childhood to his final days.

Just be forewarned that this book is already and for good reason considered controversial.

Down and Out in Paradise will be available on October 11. Click here to pre-order this book today.

The Ethical Leader: Why Doing the Right Thing Can Be the Key to Competitive Advantage

Written by Morgen Witzel, The Ethical Leader addressed ethical behavior in business. Far too often, for far too many business owners and leadership team members, behaving ethically isn’t a non-negotiable. Rather, doing the right thing in business is “nice,” not “necessary.”

For this leadership book, Witzel explains why gaining and maintaining the trust and respect of team members and customers is crucial to the success of any business. “Trust engenders loyalty and good reputation, which in turn builds brand value… Ethical behavior is the key to trust-building, but it needs to go deeper than something managers do out of a sense of moral duty.”

Pour Me Another: 250 Ways to Find Your Favorite Drink

It may not happen every shift but bar team members and servers do encounter the restless guest from time to time. Their go-to drink, for whatever reason, just isn’t cutting it during a particular visit. Of course, this is an excellent time to improve their visit and the guest experience. And it’s the perfect time to introduce a guest to their new favorite drink.

JM Hirsch’s Pour Me Another helps people find that new favorite. Bar professionals and servers will find it useful for guiding guests through a cocktail discovery process. Click here to pre-order this book for its October 4 release.

Twist: Your Guide to Creating Inspired Craft Cocktails

The classics are a litmus test for any bar professional. It’s all well and good to invent and craft signature drinks, but if you can’t nail the classics there’s something wrong. Author Jordan Hughes, over the course of 75 recipes, combines the classics with creation in Twist.

This new book, set for release on December 13, teaches the classics. However, Hughes also helps the reader develop the skills to riff on these timeless recipes to put their stamp on the industry. Pre-order today!

Boards and Spreads: Shareable, Simple Arrangements for Every Meal

So, you’re familiar with how much people on Instagram love a good cheese and charcuterie board. In fact, you have some artisanal, eye-catching boards just waiting to be photographed and posted to social media by your guests. But do they really just sit around until someone orders either cheese, charcuterie, or a combination thereof?

It doesn’t have to be that way. Yasmin Fahr’s book Boards and Spreads provides plenty of other uses for your fancy Instagrammable boards. Oh, and there just happen to be several dip and spread recipes to refresh your menu.

Image: Mikołaj on Unsplash

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation Dame Hall of Fame luncheon
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Dame Hall of Fame Nominations Open!

Dame Hall of Fame Nominations Now Open!

by David Klemt

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation Dame Hall of Fame luncheon

Now in its tenth year, nominations are open for the Dame Hall of Fame, honoring individuals who have a positive impact on hospitality.

In particular, the Dame Hall of Fame recognizes people who move accessibility and intersectionality forward.

The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) and Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails (LUPEC) are accepting nominations until March 30. Currently, there are 42 DHOF members.

On July 29, three inspirational and influential Dames will join their peers. These three individuals will be inducted into the DHOF at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans.

To nominate a potential inductee, please complete this form.

“We are so proud to be entering our tenth year of Dame Hall of Fame, which has become one of the most revered recognitions of Tales of the Cocktail Foundation,” says TOTCF CEO Eileen Wayner. “The collective magnitude of the Dames is unparalleled, and it is truly our honor to gather such a talented group of individuals, while inducting newcomers who are making a lasting impact on the hospitality community.”

Co-chairs Overseeing Process

The Dame Hall of Fame was first established in 2012. Since then, nearly four dozen of the most influential individuals have been inducted.

More than just an honor, the DHOF encourages continued mentorship. DHOF members seek to further diversity, inclusivity, and equity within the cocktail and hospitality communities.

In 2022, for the first time, two members will co-chair the DHOF. They will each take on this role for a two-term, effective immediately.

Additionally, the co-chairs will oversee this year’s DHOF nomination process. Learn more about each co-chair below.

Kirsten “Kitty” Amann

Kitty has more than fifteen years of experience in the beverage industry as a brand ambassador, cocktail book author, podcaster, publicist, bartender, and spirits writer. She is the New England Market Manager for Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey and author of Drinking Like Ladies: 75 Modern Cocktails from the World’s Leading Female Bartenders.
In her roles, she is honored to share untold stories of greatness and help the truth find the light. Kitty is a founding member of the Boston chapters of Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails (LUPEC Boston) and the U.S. Bartenders Guild. As a frequent speaker on the history of women behind the bar and in the spirits industry, and has presented at Tales of the Cocktail, The Manhattan Cocktail Classic, Portland Cocktail Week, San Antonio Cocktail Conference, San Francisco Cocktail Week, Speed Rack Academy, and at the Smithsonian. 
Kitty has taught yoga in Boston and around the world since 2010. She was among the first in the industry to introduce movement and breathwork to fellow bartenders, servers, and brand ambassadors to support their careers, and has presented at Tales of the Cocktail, The Manhattan Cocktail Classic, Portland Cocktail Week, and for local restaurants and USBG chapters.

Tiffanie Barriere

The bartender’s bartender, Barriere is an influencer and educator who has been awarded some of the beverage industry’s highest honors. The Bar Smart graduate, she is a Tastemakers of the South award-winner who spent seven years as the beverage director of One Flew South, the “Best Airport Bar in the World.”
As an independent bartender, she is known for creative and innovative cocktail menus for pop-dinners and bar consultancy clients, hosting mixology classes around the nation, and connecting culinary and farm culture with spirits. As a leader, she is a member of the Tales of the Cocktail Grants Committee, the James Beard Beverage Advisory Board, and a member of the Atlanta chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier.
Barriere and her cocktails have been featured in such publications as Imbibe Magazine (print and online), Forbes, Essence, The Bitter Southerner, Cherry Bomb Magazine, Washington Post, Eater, VinePair, Food Republic, and Garden & Gun.
In 2020, Tiffanie was featured on Food Network’s The Kitchen, honored as the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s Dame Hall of Fame U.S. Inductee, along with the cover photo of Imbibe Magazine for the “Top 75” issue. The Louisiana-Texas native is the trustworthy mentor of some of the best bartenders and mixologists in the world. Tiffanie’s main goal is education, service and fun with every pour.

Nomination Criteria

In 2022, the three inductees will receive individual awards. There will be a United States inductee, an international inductee, and a Pioneer Award inductee.

Woodford Reserve will present the first two inductees, while The Blend will present the Pioneer Award.

The criteria for nominations is below, provided by the TOTCF:

DHOF US and International Inductees Presented by Woodford Reserve:

In addition to being a woman, non-binary or trans individual, to be considered to be inducted into the US DHOF, nominees must:

  • be a person whose professional and personal accomplishments have shaped the beverage landscape and provide visible models of achievement for tomorrow’s leaders;
  • serve as a leader and mentor; and
  • reside in the United States of America.

In addition to being a woman, non-binary or trans individual, to be considered to be inducted into the International DHOF, nominees must:

  • be a person whose professional and personal accomplishments have shaped the beverage landscape and provide visible models of achievement for tomorrow’s leaders;
  • serve as a leader and mentor; and
  • reside outside of the United States of America.

The Pioneer Award by The Blend:

This award recognizes an individual who has encouraged mentorship and contributed to making the hospitality industry equitable and inclusive by working to remove barriers as it pertains to gender identity, race, religion, and socioeconomic status.

The Pioneer Award, which was named for hospitality trailblazer and New Orleanian Ruth Fertel, will be announced on June 21 in conjunction with the TOTCF Spirited Awards. The recipient of the Pioneer Award will also be inducted into the DHOF during the July 29 Induction Ceremony.

Click here to nominate an individual today!

Image: Corey James Photo

Bartender pouring cocktails on bar
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Bar Hacks: Tales of the Cocktail

Bar Hacks: Tales of the Cocktail

by David Klemt

Bartender pouring cocktails on bar

Tales of the Cocktail returns next month not only in a new format but with all-new features for 2021 and beyond.

Running from September 20 through 23, Tales of the Cocktail 2021 will be a hybrid event. The digital/in-person industry show is free for attendees this year.

Eileen Wayner, CEO of Tales of the Cocktail, and Neal Bodenheimer (a board member and operator) drop by the Bar Hacks podcast for this week’s episode to talk about the 2021 event.

Learn more below.

Hybrid Format

The 19th annual Tales of the Cocktail will offer something for everyone in the industry.

So, those who wish to visit New Orleans for Tales can do so. Also, the show will be accessible to attendees more comfortable with a digital experience this time around.

Anyone attending in person needs to know two things: First, Tales will adhere to New Orleans mask and vaccine mandates and policies.

Second, Hurricane Ida made landfall this past Sunday, knocking out power to more than a million people. In-person attendees should monitor the situation and be sensitive to what people in New Orleans are experiencing.

Intriguingly, Tales 2021 will feature brand activations not just in New Orleans but in other cities as well. Pop-ups are on the schedule for New York City and London. Tales will announce more as details emerge.

Tales Evolves

For obvious reasons, Tales will be different this year. However, that isn’t a negative—the event is evolving.

For instance, the Spirited Awards will take place this month. Acknowledging that it’s simply not fair or possible “to honor every award category for 2021,” this years awards will be different.

At this year’s event, the following categories will be awarded:

  • Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Pioneer Award
  • Timeless U.S. Award
  • Timeless International Award
  • Best: Cocktail & Spirits Publication; Cocktail & Spirits Writing; New Cocktail or Bartending Book; New Book on Drinks Culture, History or Spirits; and Broadcast, Podcast or Online Video Series

Of course, there are other new event features. On Sunday, September 19, Tales will host the Diversity Distilled Career Fair. A direct response to so many in the industry losing jobs and the current labor shortage, employers will post job listings; review resumes; and more.

Listen Today

Wayner and Bodenheimer share more details in this week’s Bar Hacks episode.

So, to find out what to expect about this year’s Tales of the Cocktail (and a bit about the future of the event), listen to episode 48 today.

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Anchor.fm, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Cheers!

Image: Adam Jaime on Unsplash

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