Bar team

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

Cheers to the 2024 Spirited Award Winners!

Cheers to the 2024 Spirited Award Winners!

by David Klemt

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

This image depicting what an AI system “thinks” a Spirited Award looks like will always amuse me.

We didn’t attend Tales of the Cocktail this year but we did watch the Spirited Award livestream to celebrate our peers receiving the recognition they deserve.

Let’s dive right into it!

A massive congratulations to the team at ALQUÍMICO in Cartagena des Indias, Colombia, for grabbing the World’s Best Bar crown.

Two incredible and generous bar pros, Alex Jump and Danil Nevsky, are this year’s Best US Bar Mentor and Best International Bar Mentor, respectively. I want to thank Jump for using her time on stage to call out the mental and physical health threats our industry continues to face.

This year’s Timeless US Award goes to The Buena Vista in San Francisco, California, while the Timeless International Award winner is Café Pacifico in London, UK. Hidetsugu Ueno’s commitment to the craft of bartending, hospitality, mentorship, and community earned him the 2024 Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award. Colin Asare-Appiah (“Get involved, bruv!”) is the more-than-deserving winner of this year’s Tales Visionary Award.

A special congratulations to Nectaly Mendoza, Joy Figueroa, and the team at Cleaver in Las Vegas for earning the Best US Restaurant Bar award. Yes, my civic pride is showing.

Another tip of the cap goes to Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, Mexico, for picking up three Spirited Awards: World’s Best Cocktail Menu, Best International Bar Team, and International Bartender of the Year. Congratulations to Eric van Beek!

Allegory at the Eaton Hotel takes two Spirited Awards back to DC: Best US Hotel Bar, and US Bartender of the Year. Cheers to Kapri Robinson!

Should you want a refresher regarding the four finalists from each award category, click here. The top-ten nominees are listed here, and the top-ten regional honorees can be found via this link.

Below, the award winners in the order they were revealed during the 2024 ceremony. Cheers!

Best New International Cocktail Bar

Bar Leone (Hong Kong)

New New US Cocktail Bar

Superbueno (New York, New York)

Best Cocktail & Spirits Publication

The Cocktail Lovers

Best Cocktail & Spirits Writing

“A New Spirit Confronts the Consequences of Colonialism,” by Adaorah Oduah, for Punch

Best International Brand Ambassador

Dave Mitton, Lot 40 / J.P. Wiser’s

Best US Brand Ambassador

Anna Mains, Monkey Shoulder

Best Broadcast, Podcast, or Online Video Series

Bartender At Large, hosted by Erick Castro

World’s Best Cocktail Menu

Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City, Mexico)

Best International Restaurant Bar

Danico (Paris, France)

Best US Restaurant Bar

Cleaver – Butchered Meats, Seafood & Classic Cocktails (Las Vegas, Nevada)

Best International Bar Team

Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City, Mexico)

Best US Bar Team

Jewel of the South (New Orleans, Louisiana)

Best International Hotel Bar

BKK Social Club at Four Seasons Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand)

Best US Hotel Bar

Allegory at the Eaton Hotel (Washington, DC)

Best New Book on Drinks Culture, History, or Spirits

Juke Joints, Jazz Clubs, and Juice: A Cocktail Recipe Book Cocktails from Two Centuries of African American Cookbooks by Toni Tipton-Martin

Best New Cocktail or Bartending Book

The Ice Book: Cool Cubes, Clear Spheres, and Other Chill Cocktail Crafts by Camper English

Best International Cocktail Bar

ALQUÍMICO (Cartagena des Indias, Colombia)

Best US Cocktail Bar

Yacht Club (Denver, Colorado)

World’s Best Spirits Selection

Baba Au Rum (Athens, Greece)

Best New Spirit or Cocktail Ingredient

YUZUCO Yuzu Super Juice

International Bartender of the Year

Eric van Beek, Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City, Mexico)

US Bartender of the Year

Kapri Robinson, Allegory at the Eaton Hotel (Washington, DC)

Best International Bar Mentor

Danil Nevsky

Best US Bar Mentor

Alex Jump

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

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

The interior of Virtù bar in Tokyo, Japan
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 Reveals #1

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 Reveals 1 to 50

by David Klemt

The interior of Virtù bar in Tokyo, Japan

Virtù in Tokyo, Japan. Number 11 on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list, and the winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award.

Cheers to the Best Bar in Asia, which also happens to be the Best Bar in Hong Kong, and the winner of the 2024 Disaronno Highest New Entry Award.

Connecting the dots, that means the bar that has earned the number one spot has achieved something stunning. Looking back at the previous eight editions of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, no other bar has taken the top spot on its first appearance on this list.

The top bar in Asia is taking home three awards, plus a record.

Now, let’s look back at last week’s list. In revealing the expanded ranking—bars number 51 to 100—I identified three cities that appeared to be on the rise. These are Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Nara, Japan; and Tainan City, Taiwan.

I was curious as to whether any (or all) of these cities would be home to bars on the one to 50 list. While they weren’t, I think it’s only a matter of time before a bar in at least one of the cities breaks into the main list. On the topic of keeping an eye out, Dry Wave Cocktail Studio in Bangkok, Thailand, earned this year’s Campari One to Watch Award.

In perhaps unsurprising news, Singapore boasts the most bars on this year’s list, claiming 11 spots. If we were to combine all of mainland China plus special administrative regions of the People’s Republic of China, there are 15 bars to Singapore’s eleven. Seoul, South Korea, is home to five bars that earned placement this year, including Zest at number two. Bangkok, Thailand, claims four bars, with BKK Social Club landing at number seven.

Take a look at the list below to find out which bar is the best in Asia. Cheers!

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024: 50 to 11

  1. Pine & Co (Seoul, South Korea)
  2. Atlas (Singapore)(Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award 2024; Bareksten Best Bar Design Award 2024)
  3. Le Chamber (Seoul, South Korea)
  4. The Haflington (Hanoi, Vietnam)
  5. Alice (Seoul, South Korea)
  6. Mostly Harmless (Hong Kong, China)
  7. The Public House (Taipei, Taiwan)
  8. CMYK (Changsha, China)
  9. Fura (Singapore)(Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award 2024)
  10. Reka (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
  11. ZLB23 (Bengaluru, India)(The Best Bar in India)
  12. Barc (Kathmandu, Nepal)(The Best Bar in Nepal)
  13. Employees Only (Singapore)
  14. Bar Mood (Taipei, Taiwan)
  15. Bar Trigona (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
  16. Analogue Initiative (Singapore)
  17. The Bellwood (Tokyo, Japan)
  18. The Curator (Manila, Philippines)(The Best Bar in Philippines)
  19. Origin Bar (Singapore)
  20. Native (Singapore)
  21. Vender (Taichung, Taiwan)(The Best Bar in Taiwan)
  22. Smoke & Bitters (Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka)(The Best Bar in Sri Lanka)
  23. Craftroom (Osaka, Japan)
  24. Pantja (Jakarta, Indonesia)
  25. Quinary (Hong Kong, China)
  26. Offtrack (Singapore)
  27. Penicillin (Hong Kong, China)
  28. The SG Club (Tokyo, Japan)
  29. The St. Regis Club (Macau) (Macau, China)(The Best Bar in Macau)
  30. Bar Us (Bangkok, Thailand)
  31. Bar Cham (Seoul, South Korea)
  32. The Savory Project (Hong Kong, China)
  33. Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar (Bangkok, Thailand)
  34. Darkside (Hong Kong, China)
  35. Night Hawk (Singapore)
  36. Sago House (Singapore)
  37. Hope & Sesame (Guangzhou, China)(The Best Bar in Mainland China)
  38. Vesper (Bangkok, Thailand)
  39. The Cocktail Club (Jakarta, Indonesia)(The Best Bar in Indonesia)
  40. Virtù (Tokyo, Japan)(Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2024)

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024: 10 to 1

  1. The Aubrey (Hong Kong, China)
  2. Argo (Hong Kong, China)
  3. Penrose (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)(The Best Bar in Malaysia; Nikka Highest Climber Award 2024)
  4. BKK Social Club (Bangkok, Thailand)(The Best Bar in Thailand)
  5. Nutmeg & Clover (Singapore)
  6. Bar Benfiddich (Tokyo, Japan)(The Best Bar in Japan)
  7. Coa (Hong Kong, China)
  8. Jigger & Pony (Singapore)(The Best Bar in Singapore)
  9. Zest (Seoul, South Korea)(The Best Bar in Korea; Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award 2024: Dohyung “Demie” Kim)
  10. Bar Leone (Hong Kong, China)(The Best Bar in Asia; The Best Bar in Hong Kong; Disaronno Highest New Entry Award 2024)

Cheers to Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024! For more information, please review the official press release below.

The Bar Leone team from Hong Kong

Cheers to Bar Leone!

BAR LEONE IN HONG KONG NAMED THE BEST BAR IN ASIA, SPONSORED BY PERRIER, AS THE ASIA’S 50 BEST BARS 2024 LIST IS REVEALED

The prestigious list and several special awards were announced at a live ceremony in Hong Kong, featuring bars from 18 destinations across the region

  • Bar Leone ranks 1 and is named The Best Bar in Asia, sponsored by Perrier, and The Best Bar in Hong Kong
  • Bar Leone also wins the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award
  • The list features 15 new entries spanning 11 destinations
  • Singapore leads with 11 bars on the list, as Jigger & Pony ranks No.3 and is named The Best Bar in Singapore for the fifth consecutive year
  • Singapore’s Atlas wins the inaugural Bareksten Best Bar Design Award in Asia, as well as theRémy Martin Legend of the List Award
  • The Savory Project in Hong Kong is the recipient of the London Essence Best New Opening Award
  • Bar veteran Yangdup Lama of New Delhi’s Sidecar is awarded the Roku Industry Icon Award
  • Penrose, Kuala Lumpur, is named winner of the Nikka Highest Climber Award after rising 42 places in the rankings
  • New entrant Fura in Singapore takes the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award
  • Dry Wave Cocktail Studio from Bangkok receives the Campari One To Watch Award
  • Nest by Pun, Taipei, takes the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award
For the full 1-50 list, please scroll to the top of this article.

16 July 2024 – The list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024, sponsored by Perrier, was announced at a live awards ceremony this evening in Hong Kong. The ceremony, hosted in collaboration with destination partner Hong Kong Tourism Board, featured bars from 18 cities across Asia, including 15 new entries, culminating in Bar Leone in Hong Kong being named The Best Bar in Asia.

Bar Leone has achieved the remarkable feat of debuting at the coveted No.1 spot, clinching The Best Bar in Hong Kong title, as well as the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award. This marks the first time in 50 Best Bars history that The Best Bar in Asia has been a new entry on the list. The one-year-old neighbourhood bar in Central, Hong Kong, founded by bartender Lorenzo Antinori, embodies the Italian ethos of ‘cocktail popolari’ or ‘cocktails for the people’. With behind-the-bar experience at Argo in Hong Kong and top bars in Seoul and London, Antinori brings expertise to a beverage programme focused on classic, approachable cocktails that are inspired by the traditional Roman bars of his home country.

The bar programme focuses on revived classics made with a low-intervention, seasonal approach, and is complemented by minimalist garnishes, like manicured citrus peels and quality olives. The relaxed and fun vibe mirrors Lorenzo’s playful personality, with decor featuring burnt orange banquettes, a mahogany bar, church candles, Italy-themed posters, a 70s-80s Italian pop soundtrack and personal knick-knacks – all of which combine to create a space that feels both homely and high end.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, says: “We are thrilled to be back in Hong Kong celebrating Asia’s vibrant bar community. The region’s bars continuously redefine exceptional drinking experiences, showcased by the talent and creativity at this year’s winning establishments. With 15 new entries, the list is bound to entice and excite even seasoned cocktail enthusiasts. Huge congratulations to the tour de force that is Lorenzo Antinori and the whole team at Bar Leone for the impressive – and previously unheard of – feat of entering the ranking at No.1. This is undoubtedly a strong testament to the bar’s irreverent and casual approach to cocktails, design, service and hospitality.”

At No.2 is the intimate low-waste bar, Zest in Seoul, which has ascended three spots, making it The Best Bar in Korea. A consistent presence in the top five is Jigger & Pony in Singapore at No.3, making it The Best Bar in Singapore for the fifth year running. Last year’s top spot holder, Coa, comes in at No.4, and No.5 is Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich, which takes the title of The Best Bar in Japan.

Destination Success Stories

A total of 15 bars from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan made the list this year, while Hong Kong leads the region with nine spots, with Coa at No.4 and Argo at No.9. The 25th-floor izakaya with sweeping views of Victoria Harbour, The Aubrey, has risen seven spots to No.10. Darkside comes in at No.17 and new entrant The Savory Project debuts at No.19. Penicillin rises two places to No.24, while Quinary climbs five spots to No.26 and Mostly Harmless rounds off Hong Kong’s showing at No.45.

From Taichung, the vending machine-themed craft cocktail den, Vender, climbs 11 places to No.30, earning the title of The Best Bar in Taiwan. In Taipei, Bar Mood re-enters the rankings at No.37, while The Public House is at No.44. Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame, a technique-driven speakeasy, is now at No.14, ascending 25 spots and holding onto The Best Bar in Mainland China title. CMYK from Changsha debuts at No.43, where award-winning bartender Ethan Liu has created a high-energy, multi-room drinking den inside an old residential building. This also marks Changsha’s first appearance in the rankings. Additionally, The St. Regis Bar at No.22 is Macau’s sole representative and is named The Best Bar in Macau.

Singapore tops the rankings with 11 coveted spots: alongside Jigger & Pony (No.3), Nutmeg & Clove, founded by bar veteran and former Roku Industry Icon winner Colin Chia, rises to No.6. Sago House follows at No.15, while new entrant Night Hawk debuts at No.16. Offtrack, another new entry at No.25, offers a music-focused drinks experience with local DJs and lesser-known classic cocktails.

Native climbs 11 places to No.31, and Origin, another new entrant at No.32, features interiors resembling an old-school train station with cocktails themed around the city’s five districts. Analogue Initiative is at No.35, followed by Employees Only at No.38. Newcomer Fura comes in at No.42, while Atlas rounds-off Singapore’s showing at No.49.

Bars from Seoul secured five positions on the list, led by Zest at No.2, making it The Best Bar in Korea. Sustainability-forward Zest is helmed by Dohyung ‘Demie’ Kim alongside Korean bartending stalwarts Sean Woo, Jisu Park and Noah Kwon. Bar Cham is at No.20, followed by Alice at No.46 and Le Chamber at No.48. Closing the list at No.50 is new entrant Pine & Co, a bar resembling a scientist’s R&D lab, known for its future-forward cocktails.

In Japan, Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich secures the No.5 spot, maintaining its title as The Best Bar in Japan for the third consecutive year. Following closely is Virtù which climbs nine places to No.11, The SG Club takes No.23, while The Bellwood has surged 15 places to No.34. Hailing from Osaka, newcomer Craftroom debuts at No.28. This petite, six-seater bar, led by revered bartender Ryu Fujii, offers classic cocktails within a seasonally changing menu.

Bangkok also holds five spots on the list, with BKK Social Club leading the pack at No.7, also earning the title of The Best Bar in Thailand. Vesper follows at No.13, while the funky, fun and immersive Mahaniyom Cocktail Bar climbs four spots to No.18. Finally, new entrant Bar Us debuts impressively at No.21, offering a high-concept ‘drinking room’ with all-black interiors and bartenders sporting freshly-pressed white lab coats.

Penrose in Kuala Lumpur makes an impressive climb of 42 places to reach No.8, earning the title of The Best Bar in Malaysia and earning the Nikka Highest Climber Award 2024. Also hailing from Kuala Lumpur, Bar Trigona maintains its position at No.36 while newcomer Reka, a self-proclaimed ‘post- modern flavour lab’, enters the list at No.41. Indonesia is represented by two bars from Jakarta: The Cocktail Club ascends seven spots to claim No.12 and secures the title of The Best Bar in Indonesia, followed by Pantja, which enjoys a two-spot hike to No.27.

India is represented on the list by Bengaluru’s ZLB23 at No.40. This newcomer claims the title of The Best Bar in India, serving prohibition-style cocktails in a venue accessed through a secret entrance hidden within a working kitchen. Hiriketiya’s Smoke & Bitters climbs 11 places to No.29 and is crowned The Best Bar in Sri Lanka. From Kathmandu, Barc debuts at No.39 as The Best Bar in Nepal, offering an upmarket, elegant space accompanied by a sophisticated selection of cocktails. Manila’s The Curator ascends one spot to No.33, earning the title of The Best Bar in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Hanoi’s The Haflington enters the list at No.47 – this immersive, vintage-themed space offers an adventurous cocktail menu inspired by The Jungle Book, securing the title of The Best Bar in Vietnam.

Special Awards

Dry Wave Cocktail Studio, Bangkok (No.73 on the 51-100 list), has won the Campari One To Watch Award, hand-picked by the 50 Best team as a bar that it feels has the potential to break into the 1-50 list in the future. Dry Wave Cocktail Studio runs a stellar beverage programme of classic and creative libations, led by veteran bartender-owner Supawit ‘Palm’ Muttarattana, who formerly helmed Vesper (No.12 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 and No.55 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023).

Bartender, entrepreneur and author Yangdup Lama has been crowned the Roku Industry Icon 2024.

Owner of New Delhi’s Sidecar, Lama is a legendary figure in the industry and the subcontinent’s leading mixologist. Under his leadership, Sidecar has earned several placements in Asia’s and The World’s 50 Best Bars rankings. Lama inspires with his creative cocktails and advocacy for regional ingredients, and as a mentor and trainer, he proudly showcases India’s bartending talent on the global stage.

Singapore’s Atlas (No.49), a jazz-age-inspired gin bar, has been honoured with the Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award, recognising an establishment that has consistently performed well in the rankings since the list’s inception in 2016. It is a double win for Atlas this year, as it also receives the inaugural Bareksten Best Bar Design Award in Asia for its spectacular art deco style and a 15-metre-tall gin tower housing around 900 labels. This new accolade celebrates bars with thoughtful designs emphasising accessibility, sustainability and market appropriateness.

The Savory Project, Hong Kong, is awarded the London Essence Best New Opening Award and enters the list at No.19. Founded by the award-winning team behind former top spot holder Coa, this newcomer spotlights craft cocktails with savoury and umami notes made with unorthodox ingredients.

Fura (No.42) in Singapore wins the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award for its groundbreaking, low-carbon footprint cocktails, circular ethos and commitment to low-waste practices. Fura exclusively uses local ingredients in its drinks, highlighting its dedication to a sustainable beverage programme.

The Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu award goes to Nest by Pun in Taipei. This reservations-only speakeasy features a thematic menu reflecting its bee and honeycomb design elements, enhancing its mysterious charm. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to help patrons narrow down their drink choices based on preferred ingredients and flavour profiles. Guests can expect not only cocktail mastery, but also a captivating storytelling experience.

Pre-announced special award winners that accepted their accolades at the live awards ceremony include Virtù in Tokyo, winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award, and Dohyung ‘Demie’ Kim from Seoul, winner of the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award.

The Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 awards ceremony was streamed live and is available to view on The

World’s 50 Best Bars Facebook and 50 Best Bars TV YouTube Channel.

Voting Process

50 Best works with professional services consultancy Deloitte as its official independent adjudication partner to help protect the integrity and authenticity of the voting process and the resulting list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024. See more details on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars voting process here.

About Asia’s 50 Best Bars

Asia’s 50 Best Bars is the first regional event of The World’s 50 Best Bars brand, created in 2016 with the purpose of showcasing the best and most innovative talent in the drinks industry in this region. The annual ranking is based on the votes of the Asia’s 50 Best Bars Academy, comprising the most knowledgeable and travelled members of the bar industry, drinks media and mixology experts from across Asia. The Academy spans dozens of cities across the continent, reflecting the relative development and importance of bar scenes in different locations and the diversity of the drinking scene in Asia. Asia’s 50 Best Bars, The World’s 50 Best Bars and North America’s 50 Best Bars are owned and organised by William Reed, the group behind The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and The World’s 50 Best Hotels.

About the host destination partner: Hong Kong Tourism Board

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a Government-subvented body. Operating 15 offices around the world and representative offices in seven different markets, its primary mission is to maximise the social and economic contribution that tourism makes to the community of Hong Kong, and consolidate the city’s position as a world- class destination. The HKTB works closely with the Government, travel industry and other partners to promote Hong Kong worldwide, widen the range of tourism products and elevate service standards, as well as enhance the experiences of visitors during their stay.

For more details on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and selection process, please visit:

https://www.worlds50bestbars.com/asia/

Our Partners:

  • Hong Kong Tourism Board – Official Host Partner
  • Perrier – Official Water Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Asia
  • Michter’s – Official American Whiskey Partner; sponsor of Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award
  • Nikka Whisky – Official Whisky of the World Partner; sponsor of Nikka Highest Climber Award and The Best Bar in Malaysia
  • Ketel One – Official Vodka Partner; sponsor of Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award
  • Siete Misterios – Official Mezcal Partner; sponsor of Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award
  • The London Essence – Official Mixers Partner; sponsor of London Essence Best New Opening Award
  • Disaronno – Official Italian Liqueur Partner; sponsor of Disaronno Highest New Entry Award
  • Roku Gin – Official Gin Partner; sponsor of Roku Industry Icon Award
  • Altos Tequila – Official Tequila Partner; sponsor of Altos Bartenders’ Bartender
  • Matusalem – Official Rum Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Mainland China and ceremonial scarves
  • Naked Malt – Official Scotch Whisky Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Korea
  • Rémy Martin – Official Cognac Partner; sponsor of Rémy Martin Legend of the List
  • Campari – Official Bitters Partner; sponsor of Campari One To Watch Award
  • Mancino Vermouth – Official Vermouth Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Taiwan and ceremonial shakers
  • Amaro Lucano – Official Amaro Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Indonesia and ceremonial shakers
  • Tia Maria – Official Coffee Liqueur Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Singapore
  • Torres Brandy – Official Brandy Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Japan
  • Scrappy’s Bitters – Official Cocktail Bitters Partner; sponsor of The Best Bar in Thailand
  • Bareksten – Official Aquavit Partner; sponsor of Bareksten Best Bar Design Award
  • Rosewood Hong Kong – Official Hotel and Venue Partner
  • The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong – Official Hotel and Venue Partner
  • Aqua Hong Kong – Official Venue Partner

Images courtesy of Asia’s 50 Best Bars/The World’s 50 Best

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

The Zest bar team, led by Dohyung "Demie" Kim, in Seoul, South Korea
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 Reveals 51 to 100

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 Reveals 51 to 100

by David Klemt

The Zest bar team, led by Dohyung "Demie" Kim, in Seoul, South Korea

The bar team at Zest (No. 5, Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023) in Seoul, South Korea, led by Dohyung “Demie” Kim.

As we near the ceremony for the ninth edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, taking place in Hong Kong on July 16, we can congratulate numbers 51 to 100.

Clearly one of the hottest bar markets in the world, Singapore dominates the 51 to 100 list this year. Unsurprisingly, the city-state also featured the most bars on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 51 to 100 list. Interestingly, Singapore boasted eight bars on the list last year, and the same in 2024.

In second place on the expanded list in terms of number of bars is Bangkok. The legendary nightlife city claims six spots on the 2024 51 to 100 ranking.

Seoul, South Korea, is not only home to three bars—including number 51—the city is also the home to Zest. This is noteworthy in part because Dohyung “Demie” Kim is the winner of the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award 2024, one of two awards announced ahead of the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 ceremony.

Kim is the co-founder of Zest, which took home the fifth spot on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 list. With that ranking, the bar also claimed the title of the Best Bar in Korea. Further, Zest earned number 18 on the World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 list.

On another note, it appears that the we should keep an eye on Tainan City, Taiwan; Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and Nara, Japan. Each of these cities holds two spots on the 2024 expanded list, a 100-percent increase over 2023. Last year, Lamp Bar, located in Nara, earned spot number 23 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. It’ll be interesting to see if these cities are represented on the one to 50 list for this year.

On that note, we’ll find out which bars are ranked one to 50 on July 16. Mark your calendars. Cheers!

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024: 100 to 51

  1. Moonrock (Tainan City, Taiwan)
  2. Drinking & Healing (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
  3. Dry Wave Cocktail Studio (Bangkok, Thailand)
  4. Tell Camellia (Hong Kong, China)
  5. Home (New Delhi, India)
  6. Charles H (Seoul, South Korea)
  7. Wu (Nothingness) (Taipei, Taiwan)
  8. Last Word (Singapore)
  9. Sober Company (Shanghai, China)
  10. The Bamboo Bar (Bangkok, Thailand)
  11. Asia Today (Bangkok, Thailand)
  12. Gong Gan (Seoul, South Korea)
  13. The St. Regis Bar (Jakarta) (Jakarta, Indonesia)
  14. High Five (Tokyo, Japan)
  15. Bulgari Ginza Bar (Tokyo, Japan)
  16. The Sailing Bar (Nara, Japan)
  17. Sidecar (New Delhi, India)
  18. Firefly (Bangkok, Thailand)
  19. Southbank Cafe + Lounge (Muntinlupa City, Philippines)
  20. The Hudson Rooms (Hanoi, Vietnam)
  21. Junglebird (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
  22. The Han-jia (Tainan City, Taiwan)
  23. 28 HongKong Street (Singapore)
  24. Cat Bite Club (Singapore)
  25. Gold Bar (Tokyo, Japan)
  26. Bee’s Knees (Kyoto, Japan)
  27. Folklore (Tokyo, Japan)
  28. Opium (Bangkok, Thailand)
  29. Under Lab (Taipei, Taiwan)
  30. The Old Man (Hong Kong, China)
  31. Coley (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
  32. Manhattan (Singapore)
  33. Lair (New Delhi, India)
  34. Honky Tonks Tavern (Hong Kong, China)
  35. Mizunara: The Library (Honh Kong, China)
  36. The Elephant Room (Singapore)
  37. Yakoboku (Kumamoto, Japan)
  38. Stay Gold Flamingo (Singapore)
  39. Tropic City (Bangkok, Thailand)
  40. To Infinity & Beyond (Taipei, Taiwan)
  41. No Sleep Club (Singapore)
  42. The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai, India)
  43. Stir (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
  44. Republic (Singapore)
  45. Three X Co (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
  46. Lamp Bar (Nara, Japan)
  47. Epic (Shanghai, China)
  48. Tokyo Confidential (Tokyo, Japan)
  49. Backdoor Bodega (Penang, Malaysia)
  50. Soko (Seoul, South Korea)

ASIA’S 50 BEST BARS UNVEILS THE ESTABLISHMENTS VOTED ONTO THE EXTENDED 51-100 LIST FOR 2024

The fourth edition of this prestigious list announces 15 new entries across Asia, with bars from Singapore, Bangkok and Tokyo leading the region

9 July 2024 – Shining the spotlight on an extended collection of bars across the region, Asia’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, releases the prestigious 51st to 100th list for the fourth year running. The ranking is revealed one week ahead of its live awards ceremony in Hong Kong and is created from the overall Asia’s 50 Best Bars voting process, which sees its 265-member strong Academy – consisting of a gender-balanced group of bartenders, bar owners, drinks writers and cocktail aficionados – place independent and anonymous votes for what they believe constitutes a “best bar experience”.

The 51-100 list: A Snapshot

  • This year’s 51-100 list includes 15 new entries from across the region
  • The list comprises bars spanning 19 different cities across Asia
  • Singapore leads with 8 bars on the extended list, among which Cat Bite Club at No.77 is a new entrant
  • Bangkok is represented by 6 bars, while Tokyo follows with 5 places on the list
  • A bar from Muntinlupa City debuts on the list with Southbank Cafe + Lounge at82

For the full 51-100 list, please refer to the accompanying graphic or scroll to the bottom of this release.

Bars from Singapore command eight places on the 51-100 list, with Republic leading the pack at No.57. This ultra-luxe drinking den at the Ritz-Carlton is inspired by the swinging sixties, with a cocktail menu focused on art, cinema, fashion and music. It is followed by No Sleep Club at No.60, which has moved up fourteen places from last year, Stay Gold Flamingo (No.63), The Elephant Room (No.65), and Manhattan (No.69). At No.77, specialising in rice and agave spirits, Cat Bite Club, is a new entrant, while 28 HongKong Street at No.78 and Last Word at No.93 round off Singapore’s showing.

Bangkok follows with six spots on the list, led by Tropic City at No.62 and Opium at No.73. New entrant Firefly, at No.83, is the Sindhorn Kempinski’s lavish lobby bar where whimsical cocktails and live jazz are complemented by a cigar parlour, followed by Asia Today at No.90 and The Bamboo Bar at No.91. Closing Bangkok’s showing at No.98 is another new entrant, Dry Wave Cocktail Studio, which runs a stellar beverage programme of classic and creative libations led by veteran bartender-owner Supawit ‘Palm’ Muttarattana, who formerly helmed Vesper (No.12 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 and No.55 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023).

Tokyo maintains a strong showing with five bars on the extended list, starting with new entrants Tokyo Confidential (No.53) and Folklore (No.74). The former is an edgy rooftop craft cocktail bar, while Folklore, a modern minimalist space, spotlights avant-garde sake and shochu cocktails. Gold Bar comes in at No.76, followed by another new entrant, Bulgari Ginza Bar at No.86, which promises an Italian aperitivo experience within Tokyo’s iconic Ginza Tower. High Five (No.87) rounds off Tokyo’s representation on the list.

In Hong Kong, Mizunara: The Library has moved up twenty places to No.66, alongside three other bars on the list: Honky Tonks Tavern, which climbs thirty-one places to No.67; The Old Man at No.71; and Tell Camellia at No.97. Topping the 51-100 list is Seoul’s Soko at No.51, followed by new entrant Gong Gan at No.89, a bar housed in a traditional Korean home reimagined with modern design elements and a focus on upcycling. At No.95, Charles H from Seoul rounds off the city’s representation.

Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi and Taipei boast three spots each on the list. From Kuala Lumpur, Three X Co ascends twenty-one places to No.56 and is followed by Coley (No.70) and Junglebird (No.80). While in New Delhi, the modern speakeasy Lair (No.68) is a new entrant, followed by regulars on the list Sidecar (No.84) and Home (No.96). To Infinity & Beyond leads Taipei’s representation at No.61, followed by two new entries, the laboratory-like cocktail den, Under Lab at No.72 and the offbeat, ‘classic cocktails only’ Wu (Nothingness) at No.94.

Ho Chi Minh City, Nara, Shanghai, and Tainan each occupy two spots on the extended list. From the Vietnamese capital, Stir rises twenty-four places to No.58, followed by Drinking & Healing at No.99, a new entrant boasting ‘industrial chic’ interiors and cocktails with local ingredients. Nara is represented by Lamp Bar (No.55) and The Sailing Bar (No.85), which has ascended three places. In Shanghai, Epic moves up sixteen places to No.54, followed by Sober Company, re-entering the rankings at No.92. The Han-jia from Tainan is a new entrant at No.79, offering a luxurious space with industrial design elements, a global whisky selection, and inventive cocktails; and Moonrock rounds off the list at No.100.

Several destinations are represented on the extended list with one bar each. From Penang, Backdoor Bodega re-enters the rankings at No.52, while The Bombay Canteen from Mumbai comes in at No.59. Kumamoto’s Yakoboku ascends twenty places to No.64; Kyoto’s Bee’s Knees is at No.75, and The Hudson Rooms – the 1920s-inspired oyster and cocktail den on the rooftop of The Capella in Hanoi – is a new addition at No.81. In Indonesia, a new entrant from Jakarta, The St. Regis Bar (No.88) enters the list for its New York-inspired signature cocktails paired with a live jazz band and ultra-luxe interiors.

Marking its debut on the rankings is Muntinlupa City in the Philippines, with Southbank Cafe + Lounge (No.82) – a self-proclaimed ‘drinking room’ that focuses on technique-heavy cocktails within a Melbourne-inspired space.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, says: “We are thrilled to welcome this diverse cohort of bars on the 51-100 list as part of this year’s 50 Best rankings. Since introducing the extended list in 2021, we have been consistently impressed by the innovative drinking experiences Asia has to offer, and it is beyond exciting to see the large number of new entries and new destinations that have made the list this year. With this recognition, we are hopeful that more bar talent will step forward annually, creating fresh and dynamic cocktail experiences for enthusiasts across the region.”

50 Best works with professional services consultancy Deloitte as its official independent adjudication partner to help protect the integrity and authenticity of the voting process and the resulting list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024. See more details on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars voting process here.

The ninth edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, will be announced at a live awards ceremony in Hong Kong on 16 July 2024 and is hosted in collaboration with destination partner Hong Kong Tourism Board. The awards ceremony will also be streamed live on the 50 Best Facebook channel via the link here and the YouTube channel via the link here. The announcement of the list and individual awards can be followed via the 50 Best social media channels, with the livestream beginning at 20:25 Hong Kong time/13:25 UK time.

Asia's 50 Best Bars 2024, 51 to 100 chart

About Asia’s 50 Best Bars

Asia’s 50 Best Bars is the first regional event of The World’s 50 Best Bars brand, created in 2016 with the purpose of showcasing the best and most innovative talent in the drinks industry in this region. The annual ranking is based on the votes of the Asia’s 50 Best Bars Academy, comprising the most knowledgeable and well-travelled members of the bar industry, drinks media and mixology experts from across Asia. The Academy spans dozens of cities across the continent, reflecting the relative development and importance of bar scenes in different locations and the diversity of the drinking scene in Asia. Asia’s 50 Best Bars, The World’s 50 Best Bars and North America’s 50 Best Bars are owned and organised by William Reed, the group behind The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and The World’s 50 Best Hotels.

About the host destination partner: Hong Kong Tourism Board

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a Government-subvented body. Operating 15 offices around the world and representative offices in seven different markets, its primary mission is to maximise the social and economic contribution that tourism makes to the community of Hong Kong, and consolidate the city’s position as a world- class destination. The HKTB works closely with the Government, travel industry and other partners to promote Hong Kong worldwide, widen the range of tourism products and elevate service standards, as well as enhance the experiences of visitors during their stay.

For more details on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and selection process, please visit: https://www.worlds50bestbars.com/asia/

Image: Asia’s 50 Best Bars

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

by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

TOTC Announces 2024 Agenda

Tales of the Cocktail Announces 2024 Agenda

by David Klemt

Tales of the Cocktail 2023 Jack Daniel's event with Julie Reiner

Tales of the Cocktail has revealed the 2024 agenda, and it’s absolutely loaded with incredible networking, health and wellness, and educational opportunities.

There’s an array of activations and special events lined up for this year. For example, the New Orleans Spirits Competition returns to Tales of the Cocktail for its third edition. To learn more about this event—including why people who want to participate need to line up early—listen to episode 115 of the Bar Hacks podcast. (Apple Podcasts link | Spotify link)

Of course, one of the biggest events is the 2024 Spirited Awards ceremony, taking place Thursday, July 25.

Truly, Tales is coming out swinging for 2024. For more information, please review the official press release below.

Cheers!

NOW LIVE: TALES OF THE COCKTAIL® 2024 CONFERENCE AGENDA AND TICKETS

TOTC returns to New Orleans from July 21-26 with an inspiring lineup of educational seminars, tasting and networking opportunities, wellness initiatives, awards programming, and much more

 

NEW ORLEANS, LA (May 13, 2024) — Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) is pleased to announce that today, on World Cocktail Day, the Tales of the Cocktail® (TOTC) 2024 conference agenda and tickets are now live via the Foundation’s website. Toasting its 22-year legacy of honoring the craft, culture, and business of the global cocktail community, TOTC returns to New Orleans from July 21-26, offering an immersive experience created to “Inspire” both industry professionals and cocktail connoisseurs alike.

Beginning today, a variety of daily and weekly passes, discounted bartender passes, individual event tickets, and the all-new $10 Wellness Week Pass are available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. Complete details about TOTC 2024 ticket options can be accessed on Tales’ ticketing platform.

“It’s an honor to unveil the 2024 Tales of the Cocktail agenda, and with it, invite the cocktail community to join us in New Orleans for the 22nd annual conference,” said TOTCF CEO Eileen Wayner. “Our dedicated team, along with the invaluable TOTCF Committees, Board of Directors, and partners have meticulously cultivated a conference agenda that’s brimming with educational programming, wellness and networking opportunities, tastings, awards celebrations, brand showcases, and more. The 2024 agenda guarantees an unparalleled week of discovery, connection, and above all, Inspiration, as we explore this year’s annual theme.”

TOTC has long been a love letter to New Orleans’ cocktail culture and a celebration of the rich tapestry of global cocktail traditions—both new and timeless. The 2024 conference lineup is no exception, featuring another stellar slate of curated educational seminars; Beyond the Bar activations; Brand-Hosted Events; Day of Service; Meet the Distillers; New Orleans Cocktail Tours; the annual Spirited Awards®; Tales Catalyst; and more.

Educational Seminars, Panels, Q&A Sessions, and More

Tales of the Cocktail will feature more than 65 educational sessions, including seminars, workshops, and tastings across Tales’ three educational streams—Business, Culture, and Beyond the Bar—which will be presented by 175 industry leaders. Chosen from more than 380 impressive proposals, the 2024 seminar lineup was hand-selected via a rigorous process by the Tales of the Cocktail Education Advisory Committee. This year, the TOTC seminar schedule is proudly led by over 48% women presenters, 30% BIPOC presenters, and over 33% international presenters from countries including the Netherlands, Portugal, Singapore, the UK, and more.

Highlights from this year’s seminar schedule include:

Business

  • Contemporary Employee Relations: Centering Dignity by Laura Louise Green with John B. Reyna, Andi Ryan, and Irene Shiang Li
  • More of the Same: Expanding Your Bar Concept by Meaghan Dorman with Indra Kantono, Gates Otsuji, and Laura Torres
  • Pouring Foundations: Financial Planning for Bar Upgrades and New Constructions by Matt Edgar with Hannah Cash and Johann Moonesinghe
  • Up Your Probability of Profit: Consumer Insights to Operate Smarter not Harder by Adrian Biggs with Rodrigo Leme, Nikki Hueckel, Andrew Hummel, and Simone Ventura

Culture

  • Akvavit 101 by Bex Almqvist
  • H2Know: Water in Cocktails 101 by Kate Gerwin and Martin Riese
  • Harmonies in Mixology: Exploring the Relationship between Music and Cocktails by Xavier Herit with Michael Aredes
  • In the Weeds: Wild Flavors Behind the Bar by Olivia Cerio with Danny Childs, Ektoras Binikos, and Tama Matsuoka Wong
  • What’s Cooler than Cool? Cocktails and Temperature by Jessamine McLellan with Dave Arnold, and Michael Capoferri

Beyond the Bar

  • Branding Up for Yourself: Strengthening Community and Equity in Brand Relations by Michael Holiday with Sullivan Doh, Phëlix Étienne, and Kapri Robinson
  • Flavors of Immigration by Alan Ruesga-Pelayo, Julio Cabrera, Faye Chen, Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez, Roberto Núñez Moreno, and Eric Vanbeek
  • I’ll Have What She’s Having: The Five Cocktails Defined by Women’s Right to Booze by Nicola Nice and Greg Benson
  • Mixing Motherhood: Navigating the Cocktail of Challenges in the Drinks Industry by Vivian Pei with Paula García, Carina Soto Velasquez, and Tess Posthumus

TOTC is pleased to present the inaugural “Futures Lab” series on Tuesday, July 23, which will immerse participants in short-format, thoughtful discussions on the future of the drinks industry, and all-new, curated Networking Sessions which will take place throughout the week of TOTC.

Futures Lab

  • The Future of A.I. and Hospitality – Gary Gruver, Director of Global Beverage Operations, Marriott International
  • The Future of Drinking the Planet Better – Stephanie Jordan, Avallen Spirits & Drinking Out Loud, Founder
  • The Future of Food & Beverage – Kat Kinsman, Food and Wine, Executive Features Editor and Host of Tinfoil Swans Podcast
  • The Future of the Industry – Matt Molino, Chief Strategy Officer Partner, NVE Experience Agency
  • The Future of Ingredients – Monica Berg, Tayer + Elementary, Muyu Liqueurs, Director, Owner
  • The Future of THC Beverages – Rachel Burkons, Smoke Sip Savor, Feast & Flower, Founder

Networking Sessions

  • First-time Tales Attendees
  • Journalists and Bartenders, Presented by Stray Dog Wild Gin
  • Meet in the Middle – Lessons in Distribution for Producers and Buyers, Presented by Independent Distributor Network
  • Parenting in the Industry

Marquee Programming: Brand-Hosted Events, Meet the Distillers, New Orleans Cocktail Tours, New Orleans Spirits Competition, Pig & Punch, Speed Rack Championship, Spirited Awards®, Tales Catalyst, Toast to Tales, and TOTCF Day of Service.

  • Brand Hosted Events: TOTCF’s brand partners are back in New Orleans dazzling guests with their legendary parties and activations in venues across the city and at the host hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans. Inviting guests to be awed and inspired by the creativity and festivity of some of the world’s leading brands, TOTC 2024 will feature more than 240 brand events across an array of Tastings, Happy Hours, Guest Shifts, Day Events, headlining Night Events, etc. Spirited Dining & Drinking events will feature partner brands immersed with New Orleans’ renowned food and beverage scene, highlighting local talent and guest bartenders.
  • Meet The Distillers: TOTCF’s signature trade show, Meet the Distillers (MTD), offers guests an up close and personal experience with their favorite spirits brands. Attendees will taste samples, meet the makers, and get a firsthand account of more than 20 distillations from across the globe. This year, MTD will be held on Thursday, July 25 from 10am-5pm, and is available to all with a Thursday Tasting Room wristband.
  • New Orleans Cocktail Tours: In collaboration with Wayne Curtis, the New Orleans Cocktail Tour series offers attendees a series of eight educational walking tours that provide a wealth of knowledge and keen insight into the city’s history and cocktail scene. Enlisting special guests to help guide the tours, Wayne (Author of And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails and frequent spirits contributor for The Atlantic, Imbibe Magazine, PUNCH, The Daily Beast, and Garden & Gun) and co. will lead a series of tours, including:
    • Absinthe Tour
    • Bourbon St. & How it Got that Way
    • Hunting Down the Sazerac
    • The Big Gay Bar Tour
  • New Orleans Spirits Competition (NOSC): The New Orleans Spirits Competition, an international spirits competition bringing wider recognition to fine spirits from top-flight producers across the globe, is presented in partnership with TOTCF, with nearly three dozen prominent members of the spirits community serving as judges to determine a suite of awards categories, including Double Gold, Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals, Best of Category, Whiskey of the Year, Brandy of the Year, Gin of the Year, Baijiu of the Year, Vodka of the Year, Agave Spirit of the Year, Specialty Spirit of the Year, Liqueur of the Year, Best New Product, Best Craft Spirit, Packaging Excellence, and Distillery of the Year.
  • Pig & Punch: The 13th annual Pig & Punch presented by The Bon Vivants is thrilled to be heading back to New Orleans for a one-of-a-kind party for charity to close out Tales of the Cocktail! New Orleans holds a special place in the heart of Pig & Punch, infusing the event with its distinct brand of fun and energy. This year, TOTC is excited to bring the party to a fresh venue, The Broadside, promising an unparalleled experience. True to the spirit of Tales of the Cocktail, The Bon Vivants reaffirm their dedication to giving back. Proceeds will support New Orleans KIPP Charter Schools, The Bon Vivants Scholarship aiding first-generation college students in San Francisco, Hogs for the Cause, and the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation. This party is all about community and camaraderie!
  • Speed Rack Season 12 National Finals: In partnership with Ivy Mix and Lynnette Marrero, TOTC will host the high-speed, high-octane Speed Rack Season 12 National Finals on Sunday, July 21 from 3pm-7pm at Republic NOLA. This vibrant competition raises funds and awareness for breast cancer, all while promoting equity in the spirits industry. The finals will be a can’t-miss event as the 20 women+ semi-finalists from across the country come together to compete in a timed, tournament-style cocktail-making event. 100% of proceeds from the event are donated to national breast cancer philanthropies.
  • Spirited Awards®: Established in 2007 to honor excellence in the drinks industry, the Spirited Awards® has grown into one of the most internationally prestigious recognitions, celebrating individuals, products, establishments, media, and industry luminaries from around the world who continue to inspire the global cocktail community. Guests are invited to get dressed to the nines and celebrate the 18th annual Spirited Awards® winners at the Fillmore Theater in New Orleans on Thursday, July 25.
    • *The Top 4 Spirited Awards Nominees will be announced and Spirited Awards Ceremony tickets will go on sale on June 17.
  • Tales Catalyst: Tales Catalyst (formerly Catalyst Luncheon) will be held on Tuesday, July 23 to celebrate this year’s Tales Catalysts Honorees–a title that recognizes those who are working for the accessibility and equity of the drinks industry. This year, TOTCF transitioned the Tales Catalyst program to a presentation-format, TED-Talk-style event to give the Catalyst Honorees a unique platform to speak to an engaged audience. This ticketed event invites guests to join in celebrating the two 2024 Tales Catalyst Honorees and enjoy refreshments along with awe-inspiring speeches.
  • Toast to Tales: Join the TOTCF Board of Directors and leadership team to kickstart Tales of the Cocktail® 2024 with a toast, live brass band, and remarks from TOTCF leaders! Taking place at 10 am on Monday, July 22 in the beautiful Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans courtyard, all attendees are invited to toast to another spirited year of Tales.
  • TOTCF Day of Service: TOTCF and Edrington welcome participants to the annual Day of Service on Sunday, July 21 in partnership with Green Light New Orleans and The Water Collaborative. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s sustainability initiatives, the history of water and justice in New Orleans, and paint rain barrels that will be distributed to bars throughout the city. The TOTCF Day of Service will take place from 9am-1pm, and those who are interested in participating may sign up here. This is a free, community event that’s open to all TOTC attendees.

Beyond the Bar®

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is proud to share the continued expansion of its health and wellness sector, Beyond the Bar® (BTB). Beyond the Bar® is the physical and creative space for Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s global community to explore themes beyond traditional spirits education. Created in 2018, BTB provides a platform to address challenges and opportunities within the global drinks industry including mental and physical health, intersectionality, substance use, sexual harassment, diversity, equity, and sustainability.

Beginning this year, select BTB programming is included in the $10 Wellness Week Pass, which includes access to 20 onsite workshops, networking sessions, and fitness classes, in addition to the daily Beyond the Bar® Lounge presented by Lyre’s. Proceeds from the Wellness Week Pass will help fund year-round Beyond the Bar® programming, including grants, scholarships, policy initiatives, and education. The Wellness Week Pass is included in all ticket types or may be purchased individually.

Highlights include:

  • Beyond the Bar® Wellness Workshops
    • Career Readiness Workshop by Alex Jump
    • Promoting Wellness in the Workplace: Addressing Addiction and Supporting Employee Success Workshop by Mickey Bakst
    • Road to 2030 Sustainable Bar Workshop by Sean Finter and Ali Fitzpatrick
  • Beyond the Bar® Fitness Activations
    • Bartender Bodyshop with The Healthtender by Amie Ward
    • Longevity Behind the Stick: Breath and Mobility Workshop by Allie Phifer and Hai Nguyen

The Beyond the Bar space will host additional programming throughout the conference for attendees to enjoy, including:

  • Beyond the Bar Lounge: The Beyond the Bar Lounge presented by Lyre’s will be located in Baronne and available for attendees to sample N/A beverages, enjoy respite with the cozy lounge furniture, access phone chargers, and rest in between sessions.
  • Ben’s Friends: Ben’s Friends is a community of chefs, bartenders, line cooks, servers, sommeliers, hosts and hostesses, GMs, and owners who have found or are seeking sobriety. Their mission is to offer community, hope, and a path forward for those struggling with substance abuse and addiction. At its core, Ben’s Friends are hospitality workers who have found connection and the tools to seek and maintain sobriety while managing careers and lives in a sane and purposeful way. Ben’s Friends will host private meetings in the Beyond the Bar Space on Monday and Tuesday from 4:30 pm-6:00 pm.

A special thanks…

Tales Partners

TOTCF would like to recognize the generous partners who help bring a premier experience to New Orleans and beyond. TOTCF is pleased to present the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation 2024 Medallion and Diamond Tier Partners: Bacardi USA, Brown-Forman, Campari, Diageo, Pernod Ricard, Rémy-Cointreau, William Grant & Sons, and the TOTC2024 Official Water Partner: Perrier.

Tales Media Partners

TOTCF is proud to partner with esteemed media outlets to share the stories of our beloved cocktail community. This year, Tales is pleased to partner with Food & Wine, Forbes, Imbibe, Pre Shift, Provi, The Advocate, The Spill, and Wine Enthusiast.

ABOUT TALES OF THE COCKTAIL FOUNDATION:

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is a non-profit organization that educates, advances, and supports the global hospitality industry and creates lasting impact in our host communities. Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is the global leader in spirits education and a platform to tackle issues facing the industry. The pillars of the Foundation are to Educate, Advance, and Support the hospitality industry through programs that benefit individuals and organizations in the community and to make a lasting impact in communities that host our events. This year, TOTCF hosts its 22nd Tales of the Cocktail® (TOTC) conference in New Orleans from July 21-26, 2024, and celebrates the theme Inspire.

Image: Cory Fontenot

Bar, Pub, Nightclub, Nightlife, Feasibility Study

AI-generated image of a cocktail with an ice cube branded with the number 50, resting on a white coaster that reads "North America"
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

North America’s 50 Best Bars: 2024

Cheers to the 50 Best Bars in North America in 2024

by David Klemt

AI-generated image of a cocktail with an ice cube branded with the number 50, resting on a white coaster that reads "North America"

I’d drink that, and probably steal that coaster.

Cheers to the 2024 class of North America’s 50 Best Bars, freshly crowned after an evening of celebration, recognition, community, and hospitality.

Launched in 2022, this year marks the third edition of the World’s 50 Best Bars list that recognizes standout North American concepts and the teams behind their success.

For the 2024 ceremony, North America’s 50 Best Bars returned to the city of San Miguel de Allende in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. Actor Diego Alfaro, known for The Ultimate Mixologist and The Law of the Jungle, took on host duties.

This year’s Campari One to Watch Award went to Toronto’s Simple Things. As a refresher, the One to Watch is a bar that voters believe has an excellent shot at breaking into the 50 Best Bars list.

The acclaimed Jewel of the South took the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award home to New Orleans. Jewel of the South also grabbed spot number six on this year’s list, along with being named the Best Bar in the South in the US. Chicago’s Meadowlark earned the 2024 Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award. The bar is a new entry to the list and also clinched spot 32. A new award, the Bareksten Best Bar Design Award was presented to Avondale Bowl from Chicago.

Cheers to Claudia Cabrera, this year’s winner of the Roku Industry Icon Award. Voted by her peers, Kate Boushel earned the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award.

For all of you out there who have a strong sense of civic pride, New York boasts 12 entries on this year’s list, Mexico City claims nine, and Toronto is home to three. Host city San Miguel de Allende lays claim to the bar at number 27 on the list.

North America’s 50 Best Bars, 2024

  1. Atwater Cocktail Club (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  2. The Keefer Bar (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  3. Best Intentions (Chicago, Illinois, US)
  4. Cure (New Orleans, Louisiana, US)
  5. Mírate (Los Angeles, California, US)
  6. Brujas (Mexico City, Mexico)
  7. M’lady’s (New York, New York, US)
  8. Angel’s Share (New York, New York, US)
  9. Hanky Panky (Mexico City, Mexico)
  10. Maison Premiere (New York, New York, US)
  11. Bar Mordecai (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  12. Cloakroom (Montréal, Québec, Canada)
  13. Pacific Cocktail Haven (San Francisco, California, US)
  14. Arca (Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico)
  15. Century Grand (Phoenix, Arizona, US)
  16. Library by the Sea (Grand Cayman, Greater Antilles, Caribbean)(London Essence Best New Opening Award)
  17. Selva (Oaxaca, Mexico)
  18. The Dead Rabbit (New York, New York, US)
  19. Meadowlark (Chicago, Illinois, US)
  20. Attaboy (New York, New York, US)
  21. True Laurel (San Francisco, California, US)(Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award)
  22. Bar Pompette (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
  23. Kaito del Valle (Mexico City, Mexico)
  24. Bekeb (San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico)
  25. Baltra Bar (Mexico City, Mexico)
  26. Herbs & Rye (Las Vegas, Nevada, US)
  27. Botanist Bar (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
  28. Allegory (Washington DC, US)
  29. Service Bar (Washington DC, US)
  30. Civil Liberties (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)(The Best Bar in Canada sponsored by Naked Malt)
  31. Dante (New York, New York, US)
  32. Kumiko (Chicago, Illinois, US)(The Best Bar in Midwest USA sponsored by Torres Brandy)
  33. La Factoría (San Juan, Puerto Rico, US)(The Best Bar in the Caribbean sponsored by Amaro Lucano)
  34. Café de Nadie (Mexico City, Mexico)
  35. Aruba Day Drink (Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico)
  36. Employees Only (New York, New York, US)
  37. El Gallo Altanero (Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico)
  38. Café la Trova (Miami, Florida, US)
  39. Katana Kitten (New York, New York, US)
  40. Zapote Bar (Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico)

The Top Ten

  1. Tlecān (Mexico City, Mexico)
  2. Licorería Limantour (Mexico City, Mexico)
  3. Thunderbolt (Los Angeles, California, US)(The Best Bar in West USA sponsored by Rémy Martin)
  4. Double Chicken Please (New York, New York, US)
  5. Jewel of the South (New Orleans, Louisiana, US)(The Best Bar in South USA sponsored by Tia Maria)
  6. Rayo (Mexico City, Mexico)
  7. Martiny’s (New York, New York, US)(Highest Climber Award sponsored by Nikka Whisky, from number 29 to 4)
  8. Overstory (New York, New York, US)
  9. Superbueno (New York, New York, US)(Highest New Entry, The Best Bar in Northeast USA sponsored by Disaronno)
  10. Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City, Mexico)(The Best Bar in Mexico, The Best Bar in North America sponsored by Perrier)

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

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

Bar or restaurant worker on phone in alleyway with graffiti
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Hey, Bartenders: Tales Wants Your Input

Hey, Bartenders: Tales of the Cocktail Wants Your Input

by David Klemt

Bar or restaurant worker on phone in alleyway with graffiti

The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and the IWSR would like bartenders around the world to complete a survey for a research project.

Attendees of the 2023 event in New Orleans may be familiar with this initiative. Entering into what TOTCF would like to be a long-term partnership, the IWSR, Drinks Market Analysis is collaborating on the project.

As a refresher, the IWSR is known throughout the global industry as the standard in beverage alcohol data collection and research. For an idea of the insights the industry intelligence agency can provide, check out their 2024 beverage trends e-book.

So, what does this have to do with bartenders? Well, it’s simple, really.

At its core, Tales of the Cocktail is about a key relationship within the hospitality industry. Namely, bartenders and beverage brands. Traditionally, that has meant spirits brands. However, this relationship now certainly includes zero-proof brands alongside their alcoholic spirits, beer, and wine counterparts.

Given how important this inextricable connection is to the industry as a whole, it’s logical that the TOTCF is interested in understanding it on a deeper level. This is where bartenders (and bar and restaurant staff) enter into the TOTCF-IWSR partnership.

All Tales needs from bartenders across the globe is five to ten minutes of their time. That’s as long as it should take for bartenders to complete a survey hosted by the IWSR.

Anyone interested in participating—and it’s not a huge ask, in my opinion—should click this link to learn more. However, for those who require a bit more incentive than just helping Tales, there are two $100 Amazon gift cards up for grabs.

Spend a few minutes, maybe win a prize. Sounds good to me.

Additional Details

The main focus of Tales has leaned toward bartenders. But, as stated above, this survey isn’t exclusive to that role.

As the rules state, other bar and restaurant team members may participate and take the survey as well.

Bear in mind, however, that this survey closes soon. Anyone who wants to contribute to this research project has only until April 8 to do so.

Further, the findings of this survey will be shared at this year’s Tales of the Cocktail, which takes place from July 21 to July 26. Tickets go on sale on Monday, May 13, also known as World Cocktail Day. Mark your calendars!

Per the IWSR’s survey page, the survey is anonymous; answers aren’t tied to a participant’s personal information. Further, the IWSR’s analysis of answers will be at the group level, not individual.

If this all sounds good, please follow this link to participate: https://talesofthecocktail.org/iwsr-drinks-market-analysis/

Cheers!

Image: Gina Santangelo on Unsplash

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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.

A bunch of limes and lemons
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

The Batching Superpower of Sūpāsawā

The Batching Superpower of Sūpāsawā

by David Klemt

A bunch of limes and lemons

One of our favorite products from WSWA’s Access LIVE 2024 event in Las Vegas can save operators and bar teams time and money.

Access LIVE, the annual Wine & Spirit Wholesalers of America (WSWA) event is always chock full of notable items. However, this one in particular stood out to me and my colleagues.

Coming out of Deluxe Distillery in Belgium, Sūpāsawā Seriously Sour Cocktail Mixer is here to make lives easier.

Of course, it’s not surprising that this mixer is so impressive. Sūpāsawā is produced alongside high-quality stablemates, after all: Blind Tiger Handcrafted Gin, Mary White Premium Vodka, and Yusibi Honey Based Aperitif.

 

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A post shared by Supasawa (@supasawaco)

In short, this innovative mixer can replace citrus. Importantly, it’s also widely available around the world. Speaking to the core of our audience and clients, it’s available in Canada and the US. When I asked about availability in the US, I was told it’s in 30 states currently.

Operators in the UK, Europe, Australia, and many more regions should also be able to get their hands on Sūpāsawā.

So, what is this magical mixer, exactly? It’s a simple and clean stand-in for expensive and time-consuming citrus.

Deluxe’s super sour mixer is distilled water, citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, phosphoric acid, and succinic acid. The liquid is crystal clear, aroma-free, and an incredibly convenient substitute for lemons and limes.

Real-life Scenario

Consider the following real-life hypothetical that shines a light on Sūpāsawā’s real-life benefits.

Let’s say someone hires an operator for a catered event. Included in this event is bar service, and involves more than pouring wine and beer.

Along with a handful of calls, the client and their guests expect a signature cocktail. Well, batching a cocktail or two ahead of the event would be a smart move.

However, we all know what that means: purchasing and juicing citrus. And we also all know what else that means: labor costs for all that prep.

What if one bartender or bar back could batch a cocktail in less than five minutes? Yes, I’m talking under five minutes for the entire batching process.

That scenario is nearly identical to Deluxe Distillery’s Access LIVE 2024 situation.

Deluxe showed the convenience and superpower of Sūpāsawā at their booth via batching. According to the bartender and ambassador who prepared the standout cocktail, he added all the ingredients—including the super sour mixer—to a jug, shook it, and it was ready to go in less than five minutes.

Real-life Benefits

Does this mean you’ll never have to buy lemons and/or limes again? For the vast majority of bars, no. However, the more drinks you can make with Sūpāsawā, the more you can plan for and control the cost of citrus.

Per Deluxe, operators can expect to save 15 minutes per liter of citrus juiced. The distillery also says each bottle of Sūpāsawā represents 35 pieces of fruit an operator won’t have to purchase. On average, a single cocktail requires just 20 ml of Sūpāsawā, or 2/3 of an ounce. With each bottle coming in at 700 ml, that’s 35 individual cocktails per.

When I asked about unit cost at their Access Live 2024 booth, Deluxe said operators can expect a price of $9 per unit. People who do the math can see the benefit of getting their hands on Sūpāsawā for individual, kegged, and batched cocktails.

In terms of storage, the slim bottle can last for about two years unopened. After it’s opened, Sūpāsawā should last for up to a year. Compare that to the two- to three-day shelf life of lemon or lime juice.

Notably, using Sūpāsawā leads to consistency. Because it always tastes the same, drink consistency is improved. And, of course, using this super sour mixer leads to producing less food waste.

Click here to learn more about Sūpāsawā and what it can do for an operator’s bar program, catering, and bottom line. Oh, and click here for recipes. Cheers!

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor KRG Hospitality received compensation, monetary or otherwise, from Deluxe Distillery, WSWA, or any other entity in exchange for this post.

Image: Irina on Unsplash

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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

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Greek Spritzer drink
by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Life is Peachy with These Cocktails

Life is Peachy with These Pantone-inspired Cocktails

by David Klemt

Greek Spritzer drink

According to Pantone, the 2024 Color of the Year is Peach Fuzz, which communicates warmth, community, collaboration, and a sense of welcoming.

There’s a lot that operators can do with Pantone’s annual announcement.

For those who are curious, the 2023 Color of the Year was Viva Magenta, a bold, purplish shade of red. And in 2022, the color was Very Peri, a dynamic shade of blue.

If an operator is looking for a complete venue refresh, Peach Fuzz may be an effective choice. For example, people can leverage the 2024 Color of the Year with feature walls, seating, tablecloths, and physical menus.

Of course, not every operator is looking to undergo a redesign. In this case, there’s still plenty of opportunity to splash Peach Fuzz throughout a bar or restaurant. One simple and effective way is through the drink menu.

Below are three peach-forward cocktail recipes. They’re visually appealing, which is helpful since we tend to “drink” with our eyes first. And with peach brandy, puree, or bitters, they impart more than just color: peach fans will appreciate the flavor.

You’ll also find a recipe for the Cosmopolitan, the famous cocktail created by Toby Cecchini. It turns out Aubrey Plaza, the modern face of the Margarita, is also the spokesperson for the Cosmo. Just like they say there’s no Negroni without Campari, there’s no Cosmo without Cointreau.

Cheers!

Frankly, My Dear cocktail

Frankly, My Dear

  • 0.75 oz. Cointreau
  • 0.75 oz. Tequila
  • 0.75 oz. Fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz. Peach puree
  • 3 oz. Prosecco to top
  • Peach wedge to garnish

Prepare a Collins glass by filling it with ice. Add all ingredients except for the Prosecco and garnish to a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into Collins glass. Top with Prosecco, garnish with a peach wedge, and serve.

Fish House Punch cocktail

Fish House Punch

Add ice to a rocks, Collins, or other glass. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add all ingredients except for garnish. Shake well, strain, garnish with lemon zest, and serve.

Peach Spritzer cocktail, also known as Greek Spritzer

METAXA Peach Spritzer

  • 1.5 oz. METAXA 7 Stars
  • 1.5 oz. Prosecco or other sparkling wine
  • 0.75 oz. Tonic
  • 3 dashes Peach bitters
  • Peach wedge to garnish
  • For winter: Star anise and tree leaf to garnish
  • For spring: Jasmine flower to garnish

For this cocktail, start by selecting a red wine glass. Add METAXA 7 Stars, then add bitters and ice. Stir, add tonic, then top with Prosecco or other sparkling wine. Garnish with a peach wedge.

Cointreau Cosmopolitan cocktails

Cointreau Cosmo

  • 1 oz. Cointreau
  • 2 oz. Vodka
  • 1 oz. Fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz. Cranberry juice
  • Orange twist to garnish

Your bartenders probably know how to make a Cosmo. But just in case, start by preparing a coupe or cocktail glass by chilling it. Add all the liquid ingredients and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake well, then strain into the prepared glass. Garnish and serve.

Images belong to their respective brands.

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

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