Male’, Maldives, 13th February 2024 – The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is delighted to announce an impressive lineup for the third installment of its eagerly awaited Behind The Bar series. By bringing in renowned bartenders from prestigious bars around the world, the resort aims to elevate the bar experience to unprecedented levels, promising guests an exceptional ambiance at this distinguished luxury destination.
Building on the success of the series’ previous editions, which featured notable figures like industry icon Shingo Gokan and Singaporean pioneer Vijay Mudaliar, this year’s lineup is set to surpass all expectations. The resort is redefining standards and creating an unforgettable experience at the convergence of luxury, culture, and creativity.
This exclusive event promises an exquisite fusion of international mixology talent, sustainability-focused concepts, and a celebration of local ingredients. Guests will have access to some of the world’s most decorated drinksmiths, including key players such as Hampus Thunholm from Röda Huset in Stockholm, Matteo Cadeddu from Opium in Bangkok, Harrison Ginsberg from Overstory in New York, and Hyacinthe Lescoet from The Cambridge Public House in Paris. Joining them are Paul Aguilar & Maros Dzurus from HIMKOK, Damien Guichard from Wax On, and Republic from Singapore.
The Stars of the 2024 Behind The Bar Series:
Röda Huset, Hampus Thunholm – Stockholm, Sweden, March 10-11
Röda Huset has garnered prestigious accolades, notably receiving The World’s 50 Best Bars’ Campari One to Watch award in 2022 – a historic first for a bar in the Nordic region. Adding to its honors, the bar was also awarded the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award in 2023, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability. Under the expertise of Head Bartender Hampus Thunholm, renowned for his contributions to Fäviken, Röda Huset offers a unique experience honed by Thunholm’s skilled craftsmanship. With a seasonal menu that produces 17 idiosyncratic cocktails, each a testament to the pristine produce sourced from across the country, the bar stands as a vibrant celebration of Scandinavia. Among the highlights is the “Good Creme,” a lip-smacking concoction featuring milk from unique cows grazing the lush pastures of Gotland Island. As guests explore the layers of flavor, Thunholm shares a promise of seamlessly blended Nordic tradition with expert innovation.
HIMKOK, Paul Aguilar & Maros Dzurus – Oslo, Norway, April 5-6
HIMKOK is not just a bar, but a fully operational distillery that embodies the essence of Norwegian culture. The flavors captured within each spirit reflect a commitment to authenticity and sustainability. Recognized as a proud member of the World’s 50 Best Bars for six consecutive years, HIMKOK has become a global symbol of Norway’s mixological prowess. The distillery’s dedication to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques has created a unique and unparalleled experience, where every sip will transport guests to the heart of Nordic excellence.
Republic – Singapore, July
Ranked No. 16 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023, Republic showcases an extensive cocktail menu that is devoted to a narrative of historical anecdotes. Inspired by the influential hallmarks of pop culture in the 1960s – Art, Cinema, Fashion, and Music, the bar pays homage to a sophisticated era for cocktailing, freedom, expression, and individuality. Republic also offers an array of limited edition spirits from the 1960s, which are an epoch of celebrations distilled into bottles. The bar’s notable ranking as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars attests to its commitment as a destination bar in Singapore.
Opium, Matteo Cadeddu – Bangkok, Thailand, August 9-10
Recognized as the Best New Bar of 2022 and securing the No. 59 position on Asia’s 50 Best Bars for 2023, Opium Bar in Bangkok has garnered a devoted cult following. Opium is a sanctuary of flawlessly curated mixed drinks inspired by “Liquid Surrealism.” The bar unveils a sensory journey that seamlessly blends opulent New York hangout vibes with the spirit of late-night Chinatown Bangkok. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the historical significance of the venue, once a space utilized for the legal smoking of opium. Opium Bar is not just a bar; it’s a call to travel back in time and experience the allure of opium in a contemporary setting.
Overstory, Harrison Ginsberg – New York, USA, September 18-19
Ranked at No. 17 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 and honored with the Nikka Highest Climber Award 2023, Overstory stands 64 stories above Wall Street, delivering an exceptional experience marked by breathtaking views and top-tier cocktails. Bar Director Harrison Ginsberg’s meticulous sourcing of local ingredients emphasizes earthy and umami flavors, creating cocktails that are literally a cut above. The art deco lounge and wraparound terrace provide an unparalleled panorama of the New York skyline. Culinary offerings by celebrated chef James Kent, known for their work at sister restaurants Crown Shy and Saga, further elevate the experience.
Wax On, Damien Guichard – Berlin, Germany, November 22-23
Having entered the 50 Best Bars list for the first time last year, Wax On achieved a remarkable position at No. 29. Situated in Berlin’s trendy Weserstrasse bar district, Wax On has quickly gained recognition as one of Germany’s best bars under the creative direction of
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