RAISING THE BAR | WORLD-CLASS COCKTAILS AND GOURMET BITES | CAYMAN ISLANDS
From world-class cocktails to gourmet bites, get to know the bartenders at three of Cayman’s leading happy hour destinations.
RAISING THE BAR | WORLD-CLASS COCKTAILS AND GOURMET BITES | CAYMAN ISLANDS
Words by Georgia Austin
-
Simone Bani
Hailing from Italy, Simone Bani found his love of bartending at university. What started as a part-time job to earn
some money turned into a lifelong passion. Now the Bar Manager at Aria, Simone prides himself on the supportive team and the creative menu of the Mediterranean restaurant.If you curated the perfect happy hour bite-and-drink combo from the menu, what would it be?
The perfect happy hour combination is the ‘Vermentino Sour', made with Vermentino (a type of white wine), thyme and rosemary, its flavours are a perfect balance of sweet and acid. It pairs perfectly with our fresh Italian burrata, cherry tomatoes and basil.
Which cocktail best captures Aria’s atmosphere?
‘Aria Mist’ is a very simple drink based on laurel gin and vanilla, with a truly unique flavour. Served with dry ice and a custom glass, the drink resembles a boiling pot. It looks and tastes delicious!
-
Grant Sam
Grant, a seasoned hospitality pro from Vancouver with over 20 years of experience, is living his dream as General Manager of the iconic Lobster Pot in George Town, blending this lifelong passion for all things F&B with tropical island life
What makes Lobster Pot a must-visit?
Being able to feast on local seafood, like snapper and conch, while looking out for the elusive green flash as the sun sets over George Town.
Which cocktail best captures the atmosphere of Lobster Pot?
‘Ivan the Terrible’, a potent mix of four types of rum and fruit juices topped with 151 over-proof rum for a Category 5 experience! Enjoy this twist on a quintessentially Caribbean drink while watching the waves roll in – especially fitting during stormy weather.
What’s one snack you think every guest should try at least once, no matter what they’re drinking?
Try our ethically sourced turtle meat sampler for a taste of Cayman’s unique national dish.
-
Zayne Hall
Zayne has had a dynamic career that has
included fine dining, distillery management and international mixology competitions. Now employed as Lead Bartender at Pom Pom, Cayman’s only rooftop bar, he proudly serves drinks and dishes inspired by South American cuisine, but with a Caribbean twist – and a side of breathtaking views.What is your go-to drink for indecisive customers?
The Spiced Rum Crust is a beautiful showpiece, using a combination of local single barrel rum and our in-house spiced rum. With a rim of lemon sugar, the drink is simply delicious.
What’s the one appetiser you think that every guest should try once, no matter what they’re drinking?
Pão de Queijo has to be there. Baked cheesy bread balls served with salted guava butter that melts in your mouth.