Ali Beniamin Ali shares insights into his bartending journey, the growing popularity of non-alcoholic trends, and his vision for the future of bartending. He discusses the shift towards mindful drinking, the importance of creativity in crafting non-alcoholic cocktails, and how bartenders can stay ahead by embracing innovation and continuous learning. Ali also reflects on the evolving role of bartenders and what’s next for the industry as it adapts to changing consumer preferences.

Ali Beniamin Ali. London Spirits Competition Judge

Can you tell us about your journey into bartending? What inspired you to become a bartender? 

My journey into bartending began with a deep appreciation for the vibrant hospitality industry. The dynamic environment and the opportunity to connect with diverse groups of people initially drew me in. As I delved deeper into the world of hospitality, my passion for food and beverages blossomed. I found myself captivated by the art of mixing drinks, exploring unique flavor combinations, and mastering various techniques. This passion for creating memorable experiences through cocktails and beverages inspired me to pursue a career as a bartender. It's a role that allows me to blend creativity with customer service, offering guests not just drinks, but moments they can savor and enjoy.

What training or education did you receive to become a professional bartender?

To become a professional bartender, I pursued various training and educational opportunities tailored to enhance my skills and knowledge. I enrolled in courses that I believed would be beneficial for the style of drinks I serve, including classes in pastry and cooking, as well as fermentation. These courses helped me understand the intricate details of flavor profiles and ingredient pairings. Additionally, I attended and won several bartending competitions, which provided me with in-depth knowledge about spirits, advanced service techniques, and creative cocktail making. These experiences have been instrumental in honing my craft and enabling me to deliver exceptional and innovative beverages to my guests.

What are the essential skills every bartender should possess?

Every bartender should possess a blend of technical and interpersonal skills to excel in their role. When starting their career, they typically begin as a bar back, where the ability to maintain a clean and organized workspace is crucial for both hygiene and efficiency. Excellent time management skills and attention to detail are also essential from the outset. Additionally, being friendly, attentive, and able to create a welcoming atmosphere for all guests is fundamental. As they progress in their career, a deep understanding of drink recipes, ingredients, and the art of creating cocktails becomes crucial. This includes comprehensive knowledge of spirits, liqueurs, and mixers, as well as mastering techniques like shaking, stirring, and garnishing.

What you look for when you plan to buy new products for your business? 

High-quality products are essential for maintaining a high standard of service and ensuring customer satisfaction. I look for reputable brands and well-reviewed items. Balancing quality with cost is crucial. I aim for products that offer good value for money and fit within my budget. I also look for innovative products that can set my business apart and offer something unique to my customers. Staying ahead of industry trends is key to maintaining a competitive edge.

OLD J TIKI FIRE, a Rum from the United Kingdom by LWC Drinks LTD / Signature Brands was awarded best value spirits brand and scored 97 points. Bartenders looking for some great value finds are encouraged to check OLD J TIKI FIRE. LWC Drinks Ltd is an independent drinks wholesaler in the UK that offers a range of Signature Brands, including:

Can you describe your process for creating a new cocktail? What inspires your creations?

My process for creating a new cocktail is deeply inspired by the diverse flavors and techniques I encounter from different cultures and culinary traditions. The inspiration for a new flavor combination or a creative presentation can come from various experiences, such as traveling, exploring food or street markets, or even visiting a coffee shop. Sometimes, it’s the sight of an older person cooking a traditional dish in the countryside that sparks a new idea. When creating a new cocktail, I start by identifying a key flavor or ingredient that has caught my attention. I then experiment with complementary ingredients and techniques to enhance and balance the primary flavor. This often involves a lot of trial and error, as I fine-tune the proportions and methods to achieve the desired taste and presentation. The goal is to craft a unique and memorable drink that tells a story and provides a sensory experience, transporting my guests to the place or moment that inspired the creation.

What are some current trends in the UK drinks industry that you find exciting?

There is a growing focus on sustainability, with bars and brands adopting eco-friendly practices such as reducing waste, using locally sourced ingredients, and incorporating biodegradable or reusable packaging. The popularity of low and no-alcohol beverages continues to rise. These drinks offer complex flavors and a sophisticated drinking experience without the alcohol content, catering to the increasing demand for healthier lifestyle options.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in mixology?

I actively follow numerous industry professionals on social media platforms and regularly read various blogs and articles. You can find Ali’s Instagram handle here.

Image source: Ali Beniamin Ali Instagram

How has the cocktail scene in the UK evolved over the past few years?

The emphasis on local and regional ingredients is growing. Bars are increasingly sourcing botanicals, fruits, and herbs from their immediate surroundings, which supports local producers and adds a unique, location-specific character to their drinks.

What are your thoughts on the growing popularity of non-alcoholic spirits and low-ABV cocktails?

The growing popularity of non-alcoholic spirits and low-ABV cocktails is a positive development in the drinks industry. They cater to individuals who choose not to consume alcohol for various reasons, whether it's health, personal preference, or lifestyle choices, allowing them to enjoy a sophisticated and enjoyable drink without feeling left out.

How do you handle difficult or unruly customers?

My approach revolves around maintaining a calm and composed demeanor. I prioritize active listening, allowing them to express their concerns fully while showing empathy for their situation. By understanding their perspective and acknowledging their feelings, I aim to de-escalate the situation and build rapport. I avoid being confrontational and instead focus on finding solutions.

What are the biggest challenges you face in managing a bar, and how do you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I face in managing a bar is finding and retaining skilled and reliable staff. I ensure that our compensation package is competitive within the industry. This includes not only wages but also benefits such as bonuses, training days, and opportunities for professional development.

How do you see the role of bartenders evolving in the next five years?

As sustainability becomes more prominent in the hospitality industry, bartenders will likely need to deepen their knowledge of eco-friendly practices, such as sourcing sustainable ingredients, minimizing waste, and reducing environmental impact in bar operations. Bartenders will be expected to maintain a high level of creativity and innovation in cocktail creation. This includes experimenting with new flavors, techniques, and presentations.

If you could only use five ingredients behind the bar, what would they be and why?

Gin, whisky, fresh citrus (lime or lemon), tonic water, sweetener (simple syrup, honey, maple syrup, etc).  With those ingredients, I can pretty much satisfy the majority of my customers. Gin's versatility allows for a range of flavors and styles, appealing to various palates. Whisky brings depth and complexity to cocktails. Sweeteners and citrus can help bring balance and freshness and tonic water's effervescence adds depth and contrast to cocktails, expanding the range of drinks you can offer.

DÙN CANA SHERRY QUARTER CASK RELEASE was Whiskey of the year for the 2024 London Spirits Competition. Bartenders, check it out for your bar programs.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start a career in bartending?

Love what you do and stay curious about the craft. Embrace new flavors, techniques, and trends. Instead of just memorizing recipes, focus on understanding the principles behind cocktail creation: why each ingredient is used, how they interact, and how to balance flavors. This knowledge empowers you to create your own unique cocktails and adapt recipes to suit different preferences. Show dedication to your craft, respect for your colleagues, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service.

Ali Beniamin Ali has been a long judge for the London Spirits Competition. For Spirits brands that are looking to get in front of buyers like him and get market feedback are encouraged to enter their spirits in the competition.

820 Spirits Ltd vodka was Ali Beniamin Ali’s top score in the 2024 London Spirits Competition.

The new feature for the competition now gives market feedback by the judges where brands will be able to see feedback on a) if the category is in demand or not b) if this product is good for on-trade or off-trade c) if this country is in demand or not. The products can also see a detailed score breakdown of how they did with each judging criteria of the London Spirits Competition which is Quality, Value, and Package.