AWARD FOR BEST BARTENDER

What inspired you to pursue bartending and how did you get started in this field? Well, it’s a story for the books! I was on a hunt for employment upon my move to Goa and stumbled upon a role as an F&B steward at the legendary Titos. Little did I know, this chance encounter would set me on a path of discovery in the world of bartending. The talented bartenders at the bar captivated me with their smarts, charisma, and mad mixology skills. I was inspired to follow in their footsteps, and voila! My bartending journey was born.

What sets your bartending style apart from others and what makes it unique? Let me tell you, creating the perfect cocktail is like a science and an art combined! My bartending philosophy is all about striking the perfect balance between fun, entertainment, and creativity, with a touch of minimalism in every serve. I firmly believe that the key to a great drink is not just about the ingredients, but about the experience. I strive to create a memorable moment for each and every one of my guests by building a connection with them. After all, as the saying goes, people may forget what they ate or drank, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel. In a nutshell, my bartending style is a mix of imaginative cocktails and warm hospitality.

How do you come up with new and innovative drinks, and what is your creative process like?

The wanderlust life! I’m a firm believer that traveling is a form of education and I love soaking up inspiration from every city and culture I visit. But you know what they say, there’s no place like home - and in my case, that means the kitchen. I find chefs to be the most imaginative people on the planet and I often seek their guidance on the art of flavor extraction and food pairing. When I’ve got a firm grasp on my ingredients, focus on bringing out their true flavors and presenting them in a minimalist yet impactful way. Because at the end of the day, the goal is to let the ingredients speak for themselves.

What advice would you give to aspiring bartenders and what skills do you think are essential for success in this industry?

If any aspiring bartenders are reading this and hoping to carve a successful path in the bartending industry, allow me to offer you a few words of wisdom. First and foremost, it is essential to bring a genuine passion to your work. Secondly, consider expanding your experiences through travel and exposure to new cultures. And lastly, it is important to invest in a solid foundation of bartending knowledge. By incorporating these three key elements into your approach, you will be well on your way to building a thriving and fulfilling career in bartending.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the bartending industry, and what resources do you use?

Here are couple of ways I keep my self-updated about the industry and trends:Attend industry events: Attend bartending conferences, trade shows, and competitions to network with other bartenders and learn about new trends and techniques.

Follow industry leaders: Follow prominent bartenders, bar owners, and industry experts on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Read industry publications: Stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends by reading trade publications and online blogs that cover the bartending industry.

Join bartending communities: Join online communities and forums dedicated to bartending, such as Bartender Collective and International Bartenders Association, to connect with other bartenders and exchange ideas and information.

Experiment and innovate: Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and innovate with new ingredients, techniques, and serving styles. This will not only keep you on the cuttingedge of the industry, but also help you to stay creative and engaged in your work.

Social media is the best resource for all these information. So use Instagram and start following your favorite bartenders and learn from them. If you know any of your friend is part of any Bartenders Whatsapp group, try to be part of it.

What do you think the future of bartending looks like, and what role do you see technology playing in this field? The future of bartending is constantly evolving, but there are a few trends that are likely to shape the industry in the years to come:

Sustainability: The bartending industry is becoming more environmentally conscious, with a focus on using ecofriendly and locally-sourced ingredients, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability in bar environments.

Technology: Technology is playing an increasing role in the industry, from automated bartending machines to digital ordering and payment systems. Technology will continue to shape the way bartending is done in the future.

Health and Wellness: There is a growing focus on health and wellness, leading to an increase in cocktails made with healthier ingredients like fresh fruits, herbs, and natural sweeteners, as well as non-alcoholic options.

Personalization:

Personalization is becoming more important in bartending, with a focus on customizing drinks to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Unique Experiences: Bartenders are striving to create unique and memorable experiences for guests by incorporating elements of theater, storytelling, and creativity into their services.

In conclusion, these trends are shaping the future of bartending and will continue to influence the industry as it evolves.