Agung Prabowo is not just a name in Hong Kong’s bustling bar scene; he's a game-changing innovator who continually redefines what a night out can and should be. A force to be reckoned with, Prabowo is best known as the co-founder of Penicillin, Hong Kong's leading sustainable bar that opened its doors in 2020. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

In an industry often criticized for its excesses, Penicillin is an eco-conscious haven. The bar’s model is built on sustainability, from sourcing local ingredients to its impressive waste-reduction strategies. Recognizing these efforts, Penicillin was honored with the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award by Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2021.

Just a week after launching Penicillin, Prabowo opened Dead &, a Hong Kong dive bar that offers a different but equally compelling experience. He is also a co-founder of The Old Man, an Ernest Hemingway-inspired bar that was voted Asia's Best Bar in 2019. The Old Man is celebrated not just for its inventive cocktails but for its unique layout that creates an intimate space, dissolving the traditional boundaries between customers and staff.

Originally hailing from Indonesia, Prabowo brings two decades of experience to his ventures. He honed his craft at some of the world’s most esteemed establishments, including the Mandarin Oriental, the WHotel, Lily & Bloom, and the Island Shangri-La’s Lobster Bar &Grill. Under his guidance, the latter achieved a remarkable 18th place in Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2015.

Regarded as a pioneer in the cocktail scene in Singapore, Anthony Zhong’s journey into the art of drink-making almost 20 years ago began at the iconic Coffee Bar Kin Ginza, Tokyo, where he deeply immersed himself in the subtleties and sophistication of mixology. Fortified with this knowledge, Anthony made a triumphant return to Singapore, cementing his legacy as a founding bartender at Jigger & Pony - a venue that was hailed as the No. 2 bar in Asia's Best Bars 2022. Anthony also played an instrumental role with the celebrated Wolfgang Puck Group, in launching bars and leading intensive staff training sessions at their esteemed locations in Los Angeles, London, and Singapore. He has been head bartender and owner at Shin Gi Tai for the past 8 years.

Difford’s Guide calls him Hong Kong’s number one bartender, Antonio Lai is co-founder of a restaurant and bar group with award-winning venues such as VEA, TheEnvoy, Quinary, Room 309, and Draftland. He is a multi-awarded international mixologist who pioneered the comprehensive MultisensoryMixology (MM) concept in Hong Kong – a drinking experience that engages all five senses.

Attapon De-Silva, affectionately known as "The Potion Master," is a linchpin in Bangkok’s nightlife and cocktail scene. As a multi-venue impresario, his fingerprints can be found on some of the city's most iconic and beloved establishments. With a portfolio that includes Teens of Thailand, Asia Today, Tax, Independence, and Untitled, Attapon has become synonymous with cutting-edge mixology, stylish ambiance, and top-notch hospitality.

Under his stewardship, Teens of Thailand was listed among Asia’s 50 BestBars, cementing his status as an industry leader. From the underground allure of Tax to the refined comfort of Independence, Attapon's establishments cater to diverse crowds but share a common thread of excellence.

By continually pushing the boundaries of what a nightlife venue can offer, Attapon De-Silva has not only elevated Bangkok’s hospitality scene but also set a new standard for excellence in the industry.

With a career that spans iconic venues and international borders, Chanel Adams is a hospitality luminary who brings a world-class touch to cocktail culture. Currently the General Manager of The Bamboo Bar at Bangkok’sMandarin Oriental Hotel, Chanel continues to redefine what it means to create a legendary drinking experience.

Chanel cut her teeth in the competitive world of upscale bars and restaurants. Her initial journey started in Washington DC, where she honed her skills at Barmini by José Andrés, an establishment renowned for its innovative cocktails and exceptional service. From the American capital, Chanel moved to Hong Kong, working at cutting-edge establishments such as PDT, Candour, and Happy Paradise, Chanel took her mastery of hospitality to new heights. Her stewardship helped establish these venues as must-visit spots on Hong Kong’s burgeoning cocktail circuit.

Chanel's philosophy is rooted in the belief that an extraordinary drinking experience is more than just the sum of its liquid ingredients; it's a crafted symphony of atmosphere, service, and taste. She leads her team with a hands-on approach, empowering them to innovate while maintaining the integrity of The Bamboo Bar’s rich heritage.

Chau Tran is more than just a bartender; she's a luminary in the ever-evolving world of mixology. As the proprietor of Sydney's legendary Burrow Bar—a staple for discerning patrons for nearly a decade—Chau is a highly esteemed figure in the hospitality industry. Expanding her remarkable portfolio, she has also launched the Cash Only Bar & Diner, an avenue quickly gaining a reputation as another must-visit locale on Sydney's vibrant social landscape.

Her influence and unparalleled talent in crafting extraordinary drinks were formally acknowledged in 2022 when she secured a spot on Bartender magazine's Top 20 Most Influential List. This prestigious recognition not only applauds her expertise in mixology but also highlights her flair for curating exceptional spaces and experiences that captivate her clientele.

Award-winning, creative and curious in every way, Davide Boncimino wears many hats and is no stranger to the bar community. Over a decade in the food and beverage industry working in Milan, London, Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, taking also on various trips around the world as guest bartender and judging cocktail competitions.

Not one to settle, 2023 saw Davide’s move to Macau with a new role leading the beverage program at of Mandarin Oriental Macau and the beautiful bar within its walls, Vida Rica, which currently offers a selection of cocktails inspired by Cantonese flavours.

Expect him to throw in some of that globetrotting flair into his tipples too. His Filipino heritage and family trips has acquainted him with the multi-faceted cultures and flavours of Asia from a young age.

If you’re ever looking for Davide outside the bar, you’d most likely find him scaling rock walls across Asia - hit him up for the best spots!

Devender Sehgal is a prominent figure in the world of hospitality and beverage management. Currently serving dual roles as the Beverage Manager of the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong and Assistant General Manager of The Aubrey, Devender has dedicated himself to elevating the standard of excellence in the industry.

Before his current position, Devender was the Bar Manager of the 3Michelin-starred restaurant, 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana in Hong Kong, where he spent seven transformative years. Devender's journey in the beverage and hospitality sector began in Mumbai, where he managed Ellipsis, a renowned dining establishment. 

AsDevender navigates his multifaceted roles with a finesse borne of years of experience, he remains a driving force in defining what it means to deliver unparalleled service and quality in the modern age of hospitality. He continues to be a visionary in his field, always seeking to innovate and elevate the beverage experience for guests.

Ezra Star is a Venezuelan-born veteran bartender and former biochemist who made a significant impact on the global cocktail scene through her work at Drink in South Boston. Instrumental in earning the establishment the title of"World's Best Bar" at the 2013 Spirited Awards, Ezra's unique blend of scientific knowledge and artistry has revolutionized modern mixology.

Today, she is a multi-faceted entrepreneur and industry leader, actively involved in various roles across several establishments. Whether owning, managing, or bartending, Ezra brings her innovative touch to a diverse array of venues, including Call Me Al, Artifact, PontyCafé, and Mostly Harmless in Hong Kong. Her relentless passion and expertise continue to elevate the standard for cocktail craft worldwide.

Hideyuki Saito serves as the director of Bars at Tokyo Edition Toranomon, where he infuses his international expertise into Japan's burgeoning cocktail scene. With a diverse background that includes working in cosmopolitan cities such as London and New York, as well as in various regions from Southeast Asia to the Middle East, Saito has honed his craft at prestigious establishments like Soho House and PURL London.

A recognized leader in the beverage industry, Hideyuki achieved a significant career milestone in 2017 by placing in the top 8 at the Bacardi Legacy Global Final—an esteemed accolade that signifies his mastery and innovation in mixology. His contributions go beyond crafting high-caliber beverages; he is also instrumental in elevating the standard of bar programs, blending tradition with modernity in a unique cocktail experience.

Holly Graham is a luminary in the global bar industry, the founder of Tokyo Confidential in Japan, and as the author of the critically acclaimed book "Cocktails of Asia." With a deep-rooted passion for mixology and spirits, she serves as the Managing Editor (International) for DRiNK Magazine, the leading voice for Asia's bar community.

Recognized as a major influencer, Holly has consistently ranked #9 on the BarWorld 100 list since 2020. Her expertise extends beyond bartending and journalism; she is also an active member of the education and Spirited Awards committees for Tales of the Cocktail. Additionally, she lends her discerning palate to judging a myriad of prestigious spirit and cocktail competitions, solidifying her reputation as an industry authority.

Born in Taiwan, JeanYeh—affectionately known as Jean Fierce—has led a rich and varied career that spans literature, architecture, and live music. Yet it’s behind the bar where her talents truly come to life. With a natural flair for the art of mixology, Jean has dazzled patrons and critics alike in some of Taipei's most iconic establishments, including Ounce, and Frenchie Frenchie. Her accolades also include claiming the 2020 Amaro Di Angostura Versus Championship.

Now in a new chapter of her career, Jean is leveraging her award-winning mixology skills to inspire the next wave of talent. As the bar mentor for the beverage team at Wildfire Burgers, she's not just serving drinks—she's shaping the future of the industry. Whether she'sconcocting signature cocktails or imparting wisdom to young professionals, Jean continues to push boundaries and set new standards in the world of mixology.

Jon Lee's roots in hospitality trace back to his days as a chef and barista, but his true calling unfolded at Singapore's prestigious Tippling Club. Under the mentorship of Joe Scholfield, a world-renowned bartender, Jonsharpened his skills and developed a keen understanding of the industry. His dedication to the craft has since elevated him to the role of Food and Beverage Director at Wildflowers.

Beyond his management role, Jon is also the visionary founder and head bartender of Penrose in Kuala Lumpur. This establishment has quickly gained acclaim, earning a coveted spot in Asia's 50 Best Bars 2023. With a knack for innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Jon Lee continues to shape the future of the hospitality scene, one cocktail at a time.

Jun Han Ong is an award-winning bartender and the head mixologist at PLUME, nestled in the luxurious Pan Pacific Singapore hotel. With a rich background that includes stints at iconic Singaporean establishments like Club 5 and Ah SamCold Drink Stall, he has become a vanguard in Singapore's burgeoning cocktail culture. His innovative techniques and deep understanding of flavors have set new standards, earning him the prestigious title of Singapore Winner in the 2019 Campari Bartender Competition.

His accolades speak to more than just skill; they reflect a dedication to elevating the art of mixology. As the creative force behind PLUME'scocktail menu, Jun Han consistently pushes the boundaries of what a cocktail can be, offering a unique and memorable experience for each guest. His influence extends beyond the bar, shaping the local industry and solidifying his reputation as one of Singapore's leading mixology talents.

June Baek is a seasoned hospitality professional with a global footprint, originally hailing from Korea. With an illustrious career spanning multiple continents, she has brought her unique blend of dynamism and artistry to prestigious venues such as Ola Hale in Ho Chi Minh, Seoul Salon in New York City, and MO BAR and the JW Marriott in Singapore, among others. June isn't just a bartender; she's a storyteller who believes that every cocktail should be an experience and every guest, a tale worth remembering.

Recently, she has taken on the role of brand ambassador for Empirical Spirits in Asia, allowing her to extend her expertise and passion to a broader audience. This new chapter marries her knack for crafting unforgettable experiences with her deep understanding of flavors and spirits, making her not just an asset to the industry but a luminary setting the gold standard for hospitality.

Kabir Suharan is the visionary co-founder of Pantja, a premier establishment in South Jakarta that's revolutionizing the cocktail experience. With over nine years of expertise in the spirits industry, he's not just a bartender but a craftsman who blends flavors and ambiance to create unparalleled experiences. His passion for mixology is evident in every sip, making him a trendsetter in the realm of beverages.

More than just mixing drinks, Kabir is committed to elevating the art of bartending by blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. He has an innate ability to breathe life into Pantja's bar program, turning it into a destination for those seeking to explore a curated world of taste and refinement. His work is not just a career but a calling, solidifying his place as an irreplaceable fixture in the ever-evolving landscape of the beverage industry.

Kai Ng, the Bar Manager at Quinary in Hong Kong, is a seasoned mixologist with international experience. Born and raised in Germany, Kai began his journey in the hospitality industry at the award-winning Roomers Bar in Frankfurt. His passion for crafting memorable cocktails led him to further refine his skills at notable establishments like Don Ho and NeonPigeon in Singapore.

Now based in Hong Kong, Kai brings a blend of European precision and Asian flair to Quinary's renowned beverage program. His expertise not only elevates the cocktail experience for patrons but also contributes to the bar's acclaim in the competitive Hong Kong market. With a knack for innovation and a deep understanding of global cocktail culture, Kai Ng is a driving force behind Quinary's continued success.

From the Philippines, Karlo Torres leads the bar at The Spot and crafts the upcoming menu for Imbue. He was key in reopening Raffles Courtyard and BBR by Alain Ducasse at Raffles Hotel Singapore and was Head Bartender at the pioneering Jekyll & Hyde.

Karlo's cocktails, reflecting his childhood and extensive experience, are unique and slightly unconventional. His love for culinary arts informs his mixology, resulting in drinks with diverse food flavors. Beyond crafting drinks, Karlo's flair bartending makes him a captivating presence behind the bar.

Lola Lau is a seasoned mixologist and the Head Bartender at Hope & Sesame, Shenzhen's award-winning cocktail bar. With a decade of experience traversing the Greater China area and Southeast Asia, Lola has developed an acute sense of the burgeoning cocktail culture in the region. Her journey began with a breakout role at Compass Bar in Shenzhen, where she was crownedCointreau Queen China in 2017. Subsequent stints in Vietnam and at The Odd Couple in China, working alongside industry stalwarts Steven Schneider and Shingo Gokan, further honed her skills and industry insights.

Today, Lola is responsible for the cocktail programs at three premier venues: Charlie's, Hope & Sesame, and The August. Committed to redefining the standard of hospitality, she and her team utilize modern techniques and exotic ingredients to craft cocktails that not only delight but also intrigue guests. Whether it's sourcing rare botanicals or experimenting with cutting-edge mixology techniques, Lola Lau is a leading voice in the evolving landscape of Asian cocktail culture.

Maria Escobia is not your average bartender; she's an artist in her own right, seamlessly merging her background in dance with the craft of mixology at Penrose in Kuala Lumpur, a venue that recently made its mark on Asia's 50 Best Bars list. Trained in ballet, contemporary, and classical Indian and Chinese dance at ASWARA Arts Academy, Maria found her calling in contemporary dance, eventually blossoming into a professional choreographer. Her fluidity and grace are evident in the way she navigates the bar, as she pours, mixes, and garnishes each drink like a carefully rehearsed routine, making every cocktail a performance in itself.

Drawing from a rich familial history rooted in Cebu, Philippines—a region known for its vibrant drinking culture—Maria was exposed to beer and whisky at a young age. This early introduction to liquor has shaped her into a bartender with a profound understanding of the subtle nuances that make a drink extraordinary. Whether it's her dancer's finesse that catches your eye or her expertly crafted cocktails that capture your taste buds, Maria Escobia embodies the essence of artistry behind the bar.

Millie Tang is a tour-de-force in the world of bartending and photography, currently dazzling patrons at The Gresham in Brisbane, Australia. With an illustrious career panning notable establishments such as Deathproof Bar, Cloudland, and Press Club, she merges her Taiwanese heritage with a keen creative sensibility. Millie has an impressive list of accolades, including being crowned the 2019 ALIA Bartender of the Year, 2021Hennessy My Way Global Winner, and more. Her talents have not only been recognized in competitions but also in her features across prominent publications like The Australian and Courier Mail.

Beyond the bar, Millie is an award-winning photographer, a skill she initially took up as a complement to her bartending career. Her multi-disciplinary approach has caught the attention of various media outlets and garnered her spots on esteemed lists, including the #78 position on the Bar World 100 Most Influential 2023 and Boothby QLDBar Awards Person of the Year 2023. Whether it's through he intricate cocktails or compelling photographs, Millie Tang continues to shape the industry, one masterpiece at a time.

Terry Kim is a trailblazing entrepreneur and cocktail connoisseur who transformed Seoul'sdrinking landscape. Born in 1984, Terry's initial foray into the business world was a Chinese restaurant at age 22, which failed but steered him toward his passion for bartending. A graduate in Hotel and Tourism Management from the University of Suwon, he cut his teeth in the hotel industry before striking out on his own. Disillusioned by the bureaucratic limitations of hotel bars, Terry took his expertise and creative flair to establish his first standout venture, Alice, an enchanting bar inspired by "Alice in Wonderland."

Located in the bustling district of Gangnam, Alice offers patrons an immersive experience, whisking them through a flower shop and down a rabbit hole into a cocktail wonderland. Terry's commitment to innovation and guest experience is apparent in the diversity of his cocktail menu, combining classic mixology with avant-garde techniques. He has extended his entrepreneurial reach with five more successful establishments across South Korea, making him a pioneer in the country’s burgeoning cocktail bar scene. A people-person at heart, Terry believes in creating a fun, fulfilling work environment for his staff, enhancing not just their job satisfaction but also the customer experience.

Treyna Zhang is a seasoned food & beverage professional with over 20 years of experience in shaping upscale dining and nightlife venues, from Michelin-starred restaurants to award-winning establishments. Her innate talent for curating exceptional experiences has seamlessly translated into her role as the brand ambassador and manager for The Orientalist Spirits in Singapore, despite having no prior background in bartending or mixology.

Treyna's exceptional palate and dedication to quality have not only earned her to guests but also earned her the trust of the brand's founder. These attributes led to her taking charge of the exclusive, by-appointment-only Tasting Room in Singapore, where she continues to elevate the brand and offer unparalleled experiences for discerning clientele.

Wakana Murata is a leading figure in Tokyo's vibrant cocktail scene, best known for her pivotal role in the success of Gold Bar at Toranomon Edition. With a keen eye for detail and an innovative approach to mixology, she has garnered a reputation for elevating classic cocktails into unique sensory experiences.

Now serving as the head bartender at Holly Graham's highly-anticipated venue, Tokyo Confidential, Murata is poised to redefine Tokyo's nightlife once again. Her exceptional skill set, combined with her passion for creating unforgettable experiences for patrons, makes her an integral part of the city's ever-evolving cocktail culture.