Reinventing the Bar Scene:
How Mixologists are Shaking Things Up
by Aiko “Highball” Hayashi
Friends, it’s a thrilling time to be in the drinks industry! As we gradually dust off the gloom of the pandemic, bars are becoming more than just watering holes. They're transforming into vibrant social hubs, buzzing with live music, comedy nights, and interactive games. As industry insiders, we have the perfect opportunity to leverage this trend and create unforgettable experiences for our patrons​​.

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Now, let’s talk spirits. Tequila and mezcal are climbing the popularity charts, riding the wave of the global Mexican food trend. The versatility of these spirits in cocktails is truly unparalleled, and our patrons seem to be loving them! So, why not host a tequila tasting event or whip up some mezcal specials? It’s all about capturing that authentic, Mexican vibe in 2023​​.
Wild berry thyme smash with wild berries, thyme, tequila, and sparkling water

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Have you thought about introducing self-serve at your bar? It's a novel concept that's gaining traction. Not only does it ease the load on our fantastic bartending teams, but it also gives patrons a chance to be their own mixologists. It's all about creating that interactive, DIY experience that patrons are starting to crave​​.

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And what's with the rosé-colored glasses everyone's wearing these days? Pink drinks are in, folks! From blushing vodkas to rums and gins, it seems like everything is getting a rosy makeover. And let’s not forget about pink wines like Rosé and Pink Moscato. This blush wave is something we can ride all the way through 2023​​.

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The health wave is also crashing onto our shores with fermented drinks. Hard kombucha was all the rage in 2022, and now, we're seeing a demand for a whole range of fermented drink options. They're a hit with the health-conscious crowd, and it doesn't hurt that they're pretty darn tasty too​.
Buckle up, my friends! 2023 is promising to be a whirlwind of exciting trends and novel experiences. Let's shake things up and reinvent the bar scene together!
And in the spirit of legendary imbiber Ernest Hemingway, who once said, 'I drink to make other people more interesting,' let's toast to our patrons, to the rich tapestry of tastes and experiences that await them. But more than that, let's toast to us, the ones who craft these experiences, who blend, shake, stir, and pour our creativity into every drink we serve.

So, fellow bartenders and cocktail maestros, I raise my glass to you. To the pink drinks and the tequila tastings. To the self-serve stations and the health-conscious fermented brews. To the live music, laughter, and stories shared over the bar counter. Here's to a year of pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and pouring our hearts out, one drink at a time.
But what do you think? What trends are you excited about? How are you planning to shake things up in 2023? I'd love to hear your thoughts, your ideas, and your favorite cocktail recipes. So don't be shy, share your insights in the comments section below, or reach out to us on our social channels. Let's start a conversation, and let's make 2023 the year of the bartender!"

Remember, in the wise words of Hemingway, 'Always do sober what you said you'd do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut.' So, if you've promised a new cocktail invention while sipping on your creation, it's time to get to work. Bring on 2023, we're ready for you!