NAIROBI, Kenya — The Nairobi Bar Show, one of Africa’s premier celebrations of beverage culture, drew bartenders and mixologists from across the globe this week for a high-profile mixology showdown at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in the heart of the capital.
The annual event, held from February 6 to 15, reached its peak on Monday, February 9 — the most anticipated day for hospitality professionals, drink connoisseurs and international competitors. Cocktail challenges, creative demonstrations and networking opportunities took centre stage, attracting participants from across Africa, Europe and beyond and underscoring Nairobi’s growing influence as a hub for beverage expertise.
Renowned Kenyan mixologist Brian Owango Kassim, together with his team from Swizzle Beverage Culture, led educational sessions, tastings and masterclasses aimed at connecting local talent with international experts. He emphasised the importance of such exchanges in strengthening Africa’s hospitality sector and showcasing Kenyan creativity on the world stage.
“Today we put into action a platform for people in the hospitality sector to meet, network and keep pace with the evolving dynamics of the industry,” he said.
High-Stakes Competition Showcases Local Talent
The mixology competition — one of the event’s centrepieces — featured skilled bartenders including Stacy from Yamas at Westgate Mall and Hanningtone from Jekyll and Hyde. After a series of timed and themed challenges testing technical skill, creativity and speed, Hanningtone emerged among the standout winners.
Competitors were judged on time, originality, balance, presentation and their use of both local and international ingredients. Participants crafted everything from classic reinterpretations to avant-garde drinks inspired by Kenyan flavours and global trends. Highlights included cocktails infused with indigenous botanicals and African spices — a reflection of Kenya’s vibrant and evolving palate.
Nairobi’s Rising Status in Global Mixology
Event MC and lead judge Douglas Duncanson, alongside a panel of seasoned mixologists and industry experts, praised the high level of competition and innovation on display.
“Today’s competitors are pushing boundaries in flavour and technique. When people ask ‘Why Nairobi?’ the answer is simple — the city is rapidly becoming a destination for world-class mixology,” he said.
The event concluded with networking sessions, live music and a celebration of cocktail culture that left visitors buzzing long after the final shaker was set down. Plans are already underway for the 2027 edition, with expectations of even broader international participation as Nairobi cements its place on the global beverage map.
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