In a bold move that underscores its commitment to continuous improvement, The Aubrey, perched majestically on the 25th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, has launched its much-anticipated Volume 3 Menu: the Kaizen Cocktail Menu. This introduction comes on the heels of the bar's recent accolade as the tenth best establishment in Asia’s 50 Best Bars, further solidifying its reputation as a beacon of cocktail innovation.
Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of "Kaizen," which advocates for gradual and continuous enhancement, this new menu represents a significant evolution in The Aubrey’s cocktail offerings. At the helm of this creative endeavour is Assistant General Manager and Beverage Manager, Devender Kumar, who has meticulously overseen the development of eight signature cocktails that pay homage to both traditional classics and contemporary interpretations.
Central to this menu is shochu, a revered Japanese spirit celebrated for its versatility and nuanced flavours. Kumar articulates the challenge and excitement of centring the cocktail programme around this lesser-known spirit, stating, “Sourcing premium shochu can be tricky, as many bottles are allocation-only, but it’s worth it for the unique qualities they bring to the menu.” As shochu gains traction in high-end bars, The Aubrey positions itself at the forefront of this trend, showcasing the spirit's potential to elevate the cocktail experience.
Each cocktail on the Kaizen menu is a testament to the artistry of The Aubrey’s mixologists. Highlights include the Glory Gimlet, which introduces bergamot and cardamom alongside traditional ingredients, and the Noble Man, a modern twist on the Boulevardier featuring dessert wine for added depth. The Twenty Twenty-Four Fashion reimagines the Old Fashioned, replacing whiskey with barrel-aged shochu, resulting in a drink that retains its classic essence while enhancing complexity.
With this new menu, The Aubrey not only pays tribute to its roots but also embraces the ethos of innovation. Each cocktail is a celebration of Japanese heritage, seamlessly integrating traditional flavours with modern mixology techniques. As patrons indulge in these thoughtfully crafted drinks, they partake in a unique narrative of evolution and refinement that defines The Aubrey’s philosophy.
For those seeking an extraordinary drinking experience, The Aubrey’s Kaizen Cocktail Menu promises an exquisite journey through flavour and tradition, inviting guests to savour the art of continuous improvement.
