A local bartender emerged victorious in a recent mixology competition in the Greater Bay Area, which brought together talented flairtenders from Macau and Guangdong province.
The Hong Kong International Mixology Showdown 2024, organized by the SAR’s Bartenders Association, featured its first GBA region competition at the International Wine and Spirits Fair in Wan Chai. Competitors from various regions including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nansha, Jiangmen, and Zhuhai showcased their skills and creativity at the event.
Champion Kenneth Tsang, representing the Hong Kong Jockey Club, expressed his excitement at winning the competition on his home turf. He emphasized the value of participating in such events to learn from competitors from different regions and expand one’s skills and knowledge in the craft.
Ken Chau, from the Bartenders Association, highlighted the importance of promoting the exchange of bartending culture through competitions like this. He mentioned that increasing participation in such events can contribute to enhancing Hong Kong’s reputation as a hub for wine and spirits trading in the region.
Despite the government’s efforts to reduce liquor duties, Chau acknowledged the challenges faced by many bars in Hong Kong due to shifting consumption habits. He remained optimistic about the future and suggested that the trend of Chinese Baijiu could potentially boost sales in the local market.
The competition not only showcased the talent and creativity of bartenders in the Greater Bay Area but also served as a platform for fostering connections and collaboration within the industry. As the bartending community continues to evolve and adapt to changing trends, events like this play a significant role in driving innovation and excellence in the field.
Looking ahead, participants like Kenneth Tsang are eager to engage in more competitions to further hone their skills, build relationships with peers in the industry, and contribute to the growth and development of the bartending scene in Hong Kong and beyond. The success of local bartenders like Tsang not only brings recognition to their craft but also adds vibrancy and excitement to the city’s nightlife and hospitality sector.
