2 minute read
Paul Gurung
Paul
With a wealth of experience working in classic cocktail bars, Paul followed his passion for Tiki culture and joined Max Traverse and his team of rum loving bartenders at the Honi Honi Cocktail Lounge in Hong Kong.
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TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW YOU GOT STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY. I started my bartending career in 2011. After working in many classic cocktail bars and hotels, I wanted to try something new. I like Tiki cocktails, so I joined the Honi Honi Cocktail Lounge, which is owned by Max Traverse.
TELL US ABOUT THE LIQUID YOU USED IN YOUR COCKTAIL AND THE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR DRINK. I’ve always been fascinated with rum, given that it’s an incredibly old spirit. I have been given the opportunity to mix with Appleton Estate Signature Blend which is a Jamaican rum. The Signature Blend is full-bodied, rich in taste and has a smooth finish. The flavours I have combined with my cocktail marries well with this style of rum.
THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? The best part of my job is the busy nights - they make work more fun. Experimenting with alcohol also makes me feel like a pharmacist working in a laboratory. WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN THE INDUSTRY? My biggest influences in the industry are all named Max. Max Gurung from Opus Bar & Grill, Max Gurung from Prive Group and Max Traverse Honi Honi Tiki Cocktail Lounge. Those are the people who gave me great opportunities and made me who I am today.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT BEHIND THE BAR? The proudest moment for me has been working for a Top 50 Asia bar with the best hospitality team, and scoring a place in T25 Bartenders.
IF YOU COULD DO ONE GUEST SHIFT WITH ANYONE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHOM WOULD IT BE WITH? I would love to do a guest shift with Brian Miller in TIKI Mondays.
Gurung
Jamaican Journey
INGREDIENTS: • 50ml Appleton Estate Signature Blend Rum • 25ml Fresh lime juice • 20ml Fresh apple juice • 10ml Liqueur de Mirabelle • 5ml Ginger syrup • 5ml Wray & Nephew OP Rum • 1 x Dash of lemon bitters
METHOD: Put all the ingredients into a shaker. Shake and double strain
GARNISH: Lime twist with a Orchid flower
GLASSWARE: Martini glass
