KATE MAGDAY

Master mixologist at Graze Gastro Grill

My signature cocktail is called The Gold Souk, inspired by gulab, an ancient Arabic rose beverage. I combine Monin Rose with bourbon, absinthe, creole bitters, plus freshly pressed clarified apple juice. Then I dust the glass with gold powder.

I competed at the Monin Cup International finals in Paris, in December 2014, with my Gold Souk creation. Somebody fell in love with my performance, and I married them two years later.

I always choose ingredients that are readily available so it will be easy to replicate. I love playing with absinthe in my cocktails – I know most people will shy away when they hear that word but it’s just a matter of having the right balance.

Hospitality is the key to be a great bar. No matter how good your drinks, if you don’t know how to engage with your guests, it’s useless.

The challenging part of the job is meeting rude and impatient people. But this type of guest makes me gain more confidence and the ability to deal with challenging situations and characters.

Back home I was a very active member of the church, so I thought I would be serving the church as a job. But then I realised that there are more spirits behind the bar.

La Ville Hotel & Suites, Dubai, Thur to Sun 6pm to 11.30pm, Fri and Sat 2pm to 5pm, 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 4033111. Taxi: City Walk. livelaville.com