Local mixologist talks international travel
JOBURG - From Wynberg to the world abroad, this mixologist is taking his profession to international heights.
Situated at 33 Andries Street in Wynberg, Molecular Bars is headed by South Africa’s best mixologist, Dino Batista – according to bitters brewers, Angostura.
The bitters-producing company held its annual Global Cocktail Challenge South Africa Finals and it was Batista who took the title.
Batista co-owns the drink-making company, Molecular Bars, which caters to both private and corporate events providing everything from coffee to cocktails.
The drink-mixing master is no stranger to travelling, but winning the mixology contest allowed him to visit Trinidad and Tobago for the first time where he competed in the global mixology challenge.
“Winning has allowed me to travel to Trinidad, ” he said. “Through that, I have been able to make friends with bartenders all over the world which basically allows me accommodation and a ‘family’ no matter where I find myself.
“The whole trip was a highlight, what an incredible experience. It’s a cliché, but the culture and the people and the food [make the place great]. If you’re going through to Trinidad, you have to go during carnival time and no other time. Be prepared to dance down the street for more than 12 hours.”
However, Batista was not focused solely on the parties. “It was also truly incredible to see the Angostura distillery and how it operates.”
Not forgetting that there’s no place like home, he let City Buzz in on a few of his favourite hotspots in the city.
“I have some mates at The Landmark in Bryanston who truly know how to serve up a great tasting cocktail and if you’re looking for a casual beer, then Melville is up and coming as a laid-back hangout.”
Details: www.molecularbars.co.za
