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FOUR SEASONS SHOWCASES GLOBAL BAR TALENT AT TALES OF THE COCKTAIL (United States)
Mixologists from across the Four Seasons portfolio are gathering in New Orleans for a week of events celebrating the craft, creativity, and culture of modern bartending. |
Category: North America & West Indies / Carribean islands - United States - Exclusive experiences
- Gourmet restaurants
- Gourmet restaurants - Calendar
This is a press release selected by our editorial committee and published online for free on Monday 21 July 2025
 Bar Manager Federico Balzarini, ARGO, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
“Tales of the Cocktail is the perfect platform for Four Seasons to highlight the talent, creativity, and passion that define our bars,” says Philipp Blaser, Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Four Seasons.
“This is an opportunity to celebrate the artistry of our craftspeople and deepen our connection to the international bar community. We are proud to bring some of our most acclaimed bar experiences to a city so deeply rooted in cocktail culture.”
As part of the week’s programming, the 19th annual Spirited Awards will take place on Thursday, July 24, recognizing excellence within the industry both in the United States and internationally.
This year, four Four Seasons bars have been named as finalists: ARGO (Hong Kong), Charles H. (Seoul), and VIRTÙ (Tokyo) for Best International Hotel Bar, and Champagne Bar (Miami Beach) for Best U.S. Hotel Bar. These categories honour bars that exemplify the highest standards of service, cocktail execution, and the timeless appeal of the hotel bar tradition.
ARGO, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong
A finalist for Best International Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards, ARGO challenges expectations with its forward-thinking cocktail menu. Led by Beverage Manager Federico Balzarini, the bar experiments with rare and climate-sensitive spirits, highlighting single-ingredient creations that provoke both thought and taste, all set against a stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour.
Bandista, Four Seasons Hotel Houston
Tucked behind a password-protected bookshelf, Bandista is an intimate speakeasy that blends 1920s glamour with a vibrant Latin soul. Led by Beverage Manager Johnathan Jones, a standout figure in Houston’s cocktail scene, the team delivers inventive, artistic spins on classics using rare spirits from around the globe. Each drink is a crafted journey, served in a cozy, 20-seat space that buzzes with creativity, Southern hospitality, and unexpected flair.
BKK Social Club, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
Honoured as Best International Hotel Bar at the 2024 Spirited Awards, BKK Social Club continues its leadership in the bar world. Drawing inspiration from Mexico City’s vibrant drinking culture and the energy of modern Bangkok, Beverage Manager Philip Bischoff crafts bespoke cocktails and artisanal spirits in a stylish riverside venue set to an upbeat soundtrack.
Champagne Bar, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences at The Surf Club
A finalist for Best U.S. Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards, Champagne Bar at The Surf Club blends timeless sophistication with modern flair. Under the guidance of Bar Director Jonathan Gabbay, the team delivers Miami’s premier champagne list and innovative cocktails, set against a palm-fringed ambiance that captures The Surf Club’s rich heritage.
Chandelier Bar, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
Set beneath a stunning 15,000-piece crystal chandelier, Chandelier Bar pays homage to the city’s vibrant cocktail heritage. Named one of Food & Wine’s 10 Best Hotel Bars in the U.S., the bar showcases expertly crafted cocktails with a modern twist. Lead Bartender J’Nai Williams brings both exceptional skill and heartfelt storytelling to the bar, solidifying the bar as a cultural and creative hub in New Orleans.
Charles H., Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
A finalist for Best International Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards, Charles H. immerses guests in the storied world of its namesake, Charles H. Baker Jr. Under the leadership of Head Bartender Odd Strandbakken and Beverage Creative Director Alyssa Heidt, the bar crafts classically driven yet innovative cocktails using house-made ingredients and local terroir. Romantic and refined, Charles H. offers a timeless atmosphere paired with expertly crafted cocktails inspired by global drinking cultures.
Evelyn’s Bar, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale
Nestled within the hotel’s signature coastal Mediterranean restaurant, Evelyn’s Bar captures the approachable luxury and spontaneous energy of Fort Lauderdale. Led by Mixologist Matthew Dress, the bar is a vibrant showcase of beverage craftsmanship, where Eastern Mediterranean–inspired cocktails are served alongside rare wines, artisan champagnes, and local craft beers. It’s a relaxed yet refined setting shaped by the same sense of movement and ease that defines the city’s way of life.
La OLA, Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Perched poolside atop Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, La OLA channels the sun-soaked vibrancy of coastal Mexico with fresh, spirited flair. Led by Beverage Manager Tianna Brammer, the menu features seasonal paleta cocktails, clarified strawberry daiquiris, spiked horchatas, and inventive takes on the margarita. Anchored by a striking jade onyx bar and lush floral accents, La OLA is a vibrant retreat where bold design, elevated cuisine, and creative mixology come together seamlessly.
Rotunda Bar & Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge
Under the iconic dome of 10 Trinity Square, Rotunda Bar & Lounge offers an elegant retreat in the heart of London. Head of Bars Michele Lombardi leads a refreshingly creative beverage program paired with sustainably sourced garnishes. With its Art Deco ambiance and immersive seasonal menus, Rotunda delivers a refined, modern take on London’s classic lounge experience.
Saikindō, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island
Opening Fall 2025, Saikindō is a Japanese-inspired vinyl and cocktail bar that blends timeless traditions, authentic narratives, and modern creativity. Tucked away from the bustle of Abu Dhabi, this intimate hi-fi venue, led by acclaimed Beverage Director Marco Corallo, will offer an immersive experience where expertly crafted cocktails and curated soundscapes come together in perfect harmony.
TRUSS Restaurant + Bar, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley
Set against sweeping vineyard and mountain vistas in Calistoga, TRUSS delivers a true farm-to-table brasserie experience with California wine country flair. Under the guidance of Lead Mixologist Carlos Gonzalez, the bar shines with handcrafted cocktails, artisan wines, with a focus on local sourcing and sustainability.
VIRTÙ, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
A finalist for Best International Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards, VIRTÙ marries modern Japanese ingredients and classic French rituals. Led by award-winning Head Bartender Keith Motsi and Assistant Head Bartender Graham Kimura, it offers rare cognacs, vintage French spirits, and sweeping city views from the 39th floor.
New Orleans: A Global Stage for Cocktail Culture
Rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, New Orleans sets the scene for Tales of the Cocktail 2025. With its storied cocktail legacy and unmistakable charm, New Orleans stands as one of the world’s great cocktail capitals. Widely recognized as the birthplace of iconic drinks such as the Sazerac and the Ramos Gin Fizz, the city continues to inspire with its dynamic mix of heritage, creativity, and vibrant hospitality.
At the heart of the celebration is Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, an architectural landmark ideally positioned on Canal Street at the edge of the French Quarter. With sweeping views of the Mississippi River and a setting that echoes the spirit of the city, the hotel will serve as a central gathering point during the week’s events. Reflecting the rhythm and richness of New Orleans, the property is also home to two standout dining destinations: Miss River, where Southern cuisine is reimagined with bold creativity, and Chemin à la Mer, a refined steakhouse and oyster bar, both led by local James Beard Award-winning chef partners. Together, they offer guests an immersive taste of New Orleans through the lens of Four Seasons.
 Beverage Manager Johnathan Jones, Bandista, Four Seasons Hotel Houston
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Beverage Manager Philip Bischoff, BKK Social Club, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Bar Director Jonathan Gabbay, Champagne Bar, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences at The Surf Club
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Lead Bartender J’Nai Williams, Chandelier Bar, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Beverage Creative Director Alyssa Heidt, Charles H., Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Mixologist Matthew Dress, Evelyn’s Bar, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Head of Bars Michele Lombardi, Rotunda Bar & Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Lead Mixologist Carlos Gonzalez, TRUSS Restaurant & Bar, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
 Head Bartender Keith Motsi, VIRTÙ, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
Photo credit © Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
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