A Night of Elevated Cocktails: The Bar Takeover by Pantja Bartenders at The Peninsula Manila

Manila's cocktail scene witnessed a delightful takeover recently, and I was lucky enough to be a part of it! The Bar at The Peninsula Manila hosted The Bar Takeover III, featuring the dynamic duo behind Pantja Bar in Indonesia, Kabir Suharan and Fabri Dumellio.

Pantja Bar, a name synonymous with sleek design and meticulously crafted cocktails, holds the esteemed 27th spot on Asia's 50 Best Bars list. This guest shift brought their cocktail magic all the way to Manila, elevating The Bar's experience to a whole new level.

The night was a delightful exploration of unique flavors. Here's a glimpse into the masterpieces Kabir and Fabri concocted for us:

PB & J Julep: This playful twist on a classic combined the comforting taste of peanut butter with the rich notes of Irish whiskey. Giffard Banane de Bresil added a touch of banana sweetness, balanced by fresh strawberries and a hint of mint. This nostalgia-inducing drink was finished with a delightful peanut tuille for a delightful textural experience.

Vieux Carre: This reimagined New Orleans classic offered a complex depth of flavor. Double-charred Irish whiskey provided a smoky base, while Remy Martin VSOP and Dom Benedictine added layers of richness. Chai Masala rosso offered a surprising yet delightful twist, complementing the vermouth and bitters.

Sakura Stone Sour: This visually stunning and incredibly refreshing drink was a symphony of floral and citrus notes. Gin and Mancino Sakura (cherry liqueur) formed the base, while Hojica syrup offered a touch of sesame complexity. Pomelo cordial and lemon juice added a welcome tartness, and the magic touch? A hint of sesame oil and a perfectly foamy egg white for a luxurious texture. The drink was garnished with genmaicha tea for a visual and aromatic flourish.

Clover Club: This vibrant pink libation was a delightful exploration of raspberry flavors. Raspberry-infused gin provided the base, while Creme de Cacao, Branca Mentha, and Tio Pepe sherry offered a delightful complexity. A touch of acid blend and egg white added a velvety texture, and the whole experience was finished off with a dollop of raspberry jelly for a touch of sweetness and fun.

But the magic went beyond the drinks. Kabir and Fabri transformed The Bar's vibe. The music shifted to a more upbeat tempo, complementing the playful spirit of the cocktails. People were buzzing with excitement, eager to try these unique creations. It was a night that redefined the cocktail experience at The Peninsula Manila, a direction I'm absolutely here for!

Looking for a Night of Elevated Cocktail Experiences?

If you're a Manila resident with a discerning palate, keep an eye out for future guest shifts and bar takeovers at The Peninsula Manila. It's a fantastic way to experience the magic of world-renowned bartenders and discover new culinary horizons. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Special shoutout to Anne Bernardo of Peninsula for the invite and amazing experience!