Marco Grisafi’s journey into the world of spirits and mixology began in 2010, when his passion for bartending became a profession at Antica Sacile, a small venue in his hometown in northern Italy. Under the mentorship of Daniela, he learned the fundamentals of hospitality and mixology, laying the foundation for his career. Eager to expand his horizons, Marco moved to Lignano Sabbiadoro to work alongside Daniele Boscarato, whose pedigree included Milan’s acclaimed Rita Cocktail Bar, and later Paris with Oscar Quagliarini at Grazie. These experiences introduced him to an international standard of mixology and broadened his creative approach.

In 2018, Marco moved to London, where he joined a new hospitality project by Flavio Briatore before working with acclaimed chef Adam Handling. Even during the pandemic, he adapted by designing delivery concepts that kept hospitality alive during challenging times. By 2021, he was promoted to Bar Manager, collaborating with consultant Anna Sebastian to elevate the bar to Michelin-starred status.

His career then took him to Alma, working with Tony Pescatori of Nightjar, before joining the pre-opening team for 1 Hotel Mayfair under Matteo Carretta. At Dover Yard, Marco was quickly promoted to Bar Manager and now serves as Head of Bars, overseeing operations and continuing to push creative boundaries in mixology.

Marco Grisafi will also be judging at the 2026 London Spirits Competition.

Q&A with Marco Grisafi

Who or what inspired your journey into spirits?

 I strive to understand the complexity of every flavor and share my knowledge with our guests, ensuring they enjoy the best experience of their lives.

Your favourite UK bar to enjoy a drink/cocktail (outside of your workplace)?

Donovan Bar by Salvatore Calabrese.

Nestled in the elegant surroundings of Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair, Donovan Bar is a sumptuous ode to 20th‑century glamour. Named after iconic fashion photographer Terence Donovan, the walls are adorned with his striking black‑and‑white images—a chic backdrop to maestro-bartender Salvatore Calabrese’s legendary cocktail creations Here, guests sip standout drinks like the Guinness World Record–holding “Salvatore’s Legacy” or enjoy a theatrical cocktail in the “Naughty Corner,” a plush alcove beneath Donovan’s boldest works.

In the Picture, Salvatore Calabrese: The Maestro Behind the World’s Most Memorable Cocktails. Learn more about him here.

Donovan Bar is inseparable from the legacy of Salvatore Calabrese, “The Maestro”, one of the most celebrated bartenders in the world. As Director of Mixology at Brown’s Hotel, Calabrese has made the bar a stage for his craft, curating menus that blend timeless classics with bold new creations. Famous for inventions like the Breakfast Martini and record-breaking cocktails, his influence infuses Donovan Bar with an atmosphere of glamour and innovation. For professionals like Marco Grisafi, it represents the pinnacle of London’s cocktail culture — a place where heritage and modern artistry meet in every glass.

Your favourite UK spirits shop (off-trade, not your own venue)?

Milroy’s of Soho.

Milroy’s of Soho has been a cornerstone of London’s spirits culture since 1964, credited with introducing single malt whisky to the city and shaping how Londoners appreciate fine spirits. Tucked into Greek Street, the shop is renowned for its vast shelves lined with Scotch, bourbon, and rare bottlings, but it’s more than just a retailer — it’s an institution. Upstairs, whisky lovers explore hand-picked single casks and independent bottlings, while downstairs, hidden cocktail bars like The Vault showcase the creativity of London’s modern bartending scene. For Marco Grisafi, Milroy’s represents both tradition and innovation: a place where whisky heritage meets the adventurous spirit of contemporary mixology.

About Milroy’s: A cornerstone of London’s whisky scene since 1964, Milroy’s of Soho is celebrated for its vast collection of single malts and independent bottlings. Beyond whisky, it has evolved into a hub for spirits lovers, with hidden cocktail bars upstairs and downstairs that showcase experimental serves. For professionals like Marco, Milroy’s is both an inspiration and a playground of discovery.

Your go-to spirits brand?

Maker’s Mark.

Image: Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 95 Points, 2025 London Spirits Competition

A spirits category or type you think is underrated?

Mezcal.

A spirits trend you’re excited about for 2026?

Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm.

Image: Star Hill Farm Whisky, London Spirits Competition 2025 Gold Medal 97 Points and 2025 Wheat Whiskey Of TheYear 97 Points.

For distilleries thinking of entering, what makes the London Spirits Competition stand out?

Gain the opportunity to compare your own brand with others, allowing you to understand it from a new perspective.

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One piece of advice you’d give to distilleries entering the London Spirits Competition?

Always be proud of your brand if you believe in it and have built it with passion and love.

Having your spirits judged by Marco Grisafi means putting them in front of a bar leader who has worked at the highest levels of London’s hospitality scene. His perspective combines deep technical expertise with the creativity and resilience required to stay ahead in one of the world’s most competitive cocktail capitals.

Get your spirits judged by Marco Grisafi at the 2026 London Spirits Competition.

Also Read:
Salvatore Calabrese: The Maestro Behind the World’s Most Memorable Cocktails
Meet the Judges: Emma Walker, Master Blender at Diageo
Drinks Guide Pub Golf: Mayfair