Michito Kaneko Masterclass at ZUMA

Michito KANEKO

The 2015 Diageo World Class Winner, Michito Kaneko from Japan was recently at ZUMA in Hong Kong talking about his journey to become World Class Champion and showcasing the art of Japanese cocktails and ice carving. Kaneko also performed two guest shifts at ZUMA. The visit was in conjunction with the launch of World Class for Hong Kong and Macau.

Renown for his cocktail innovations, Kaneko hosted two bartender sessions at ZUMA, bringing his impeccably calibrated cocktails, along with his whimsical humour and engaging personality to Hong Kong for the first time.

Kaneko’s visit showcased his 13 years of experience behind the stick with seven unique and exquisite cocktails, with three of his creations also being served as part of the specially crafted three-course cocktail pairing menu, that ZUMA had on offer. The three drinks for the pairing menu all featured spirits from the Diageo World Class collection: Ron Zacapa, Don Julio Reposado, and Tanqueray No. TEN.

Three years ago Kaneko opened his own venue, The Lamp Bar, where he also served four specialty cocktails; Union, Amber Time, From 23 and Triple Gold.

“Michito’s journey from construction worker to bartender, bar owner, and world champion epitomizes a journey of growth, or kaizen, that is central to Japanese philosophy of continual improvement. His drinks, like his personality, are a wonderful personification of Japanese hospitality that is subtle and harmonious”, said Martin Newell, brand manager for Diageo Reserve.