ANDREAS QEPALI

Bar manager

Hutong Dubai hutong-dubai.com andreaskps hutongdubai

Passion for the industry

A bartender’s creativity stems from their passion for the craft and willingness to experiment with different ingredients. I would say the most in-demand spiritease, based cocktails are those that contain gin, as it adds an exquisite taste. Indeed, our gin-based Aurora cocktail is one of our bestsellers. It is infused with basil, cucumber and ginger.

I’ve actually found that reading books on cooking, botanicals and mixology has helped me to unlock some of the flavor combinations that are now present in my menus. The more you read into it, the more you understand which botanicals and herbs are used in different spirits.

Market trends

I believe that trends are linked to the market. In Dubai, when it comes to spirit volume, I believe tequila leads the way. During the past three years or so, people have started looking at tequila in a different way — not just as a strong spirit taken as a shot. Tequila can be combined with other spirits and mixers with relative so it has gained popularity in bars everywhere.

We always try and ensure that we have all the items required to please our guests. Essential spirits include Calvados, Cognac, Armagnac, tequila, mezcal, rum, cachaca, whisky, gin and vodka. A good selection in each category completes a bar.

A positive attitude

Before we get into accessories, it's important for all bartenders to maintain a positive attitude and a smile when serving guests. A bartender should always have a bar plate, wine opener, lighter and a pen to hand to provide best-in-class service. If you want to take things up a notch, a rotovap machine, sous vide and siphon are super tools to deliver unique, innovative and highquality drinks.