🌟 Announcing the Finalists of Rising Stars 2025: Sipping Memories

22 May 2025

ES

Elisa Schiettecatte

The Rising Stars competition continues to celebrate the artistry, innovation, and heart of bartenders across the globe. This year’s theme, “Sipping Memories”, invited contestants to take us on a journey through taste—crafting cocktails inspired by personal stories and unforgettable moments.

Once again, applicants demonstrated not only exceptional talent and creativity but also high-level competition, outstanding dedication, and an impressive flair for marketing, sharing their journey with powerful videos on social media. A heartfelt congratulations to everyone who took part.

Today, we proudly introduce the 8 bartenders who stood out and will now travel to France for the grand final. These individuals are real storytellers, creators, and Rising Stars of tomorrow’s hospitality world.

Simo – The Bodrum Edition, Brava Bodrum (Turkey)

Bars Supervisor

Simo is the definition of calm control behind the bar. From operations to service, he’s a team player with a thirst for learning and growing. He’s competing to challenge himself and explore new perspectives. His favourite drink? The Naked and Famous—a bold blend that reflects his appreciation for unique flavour combinations.

Lorenzo – W Rome, W Lounge & Rooftop Bars (Italy)

Assistant Bar Manager

With elegance and vision, Lorenzo leads the bar scene at W Rome, shaping experiences from the vibrant W Lounge to the city’s rooftops. He joins Rising Stars to connect, grow, and inspire through hospitality. His signature sip? The Campari Shakerato—simple yet powerful, a timeless emblem of Italian style.

Fran – The Madrid EDITION, Oroya (Spain)

Head Bartender

At Oroya, the Peruvian restaurant inside The Madrid Edition, Fran brings craft and curiosity to the bar. Rising Stars Final Week is his chance to learn from fellow qualifiers, take in the lineups, and test himself on an international stage. His favourite cocktail? The Naked & Famous—mezcal, citrus, and herbs in an irresistible mix.

Ale – The Rome EDITION, Punch Room (Italy)

Bartender

Whether at the rooftop or behind the bar, Ale pours with passion. Known for her home-made cordials and creative sodas, she believes in learning, growing, and exchanging with bartenders from around the world. Her favourite? An Old Fashioned with extra Angostura—simple, strong, and timeless.

Benjamin – Cardo Brussels, Doodles (Belgium)

Bar Supervisor

Benjamin leads by example at Doodles Bar, crafting cocktails and unforgettable moments. For him, this competition is a chance to grow in an industry he’s deeply passionate about. His signature favourite is the Cosmopolitan—sour, stylish, and the very first cocktail he ever mastered.

Vini – Sheraton Grand Doha, Jamavar Doha (Qatar)

Bartender

With experience in Michelin-star service, Vini is as detail-oriented as he is enthusiastic. Always seeking new challenges, she sees this competition as a leap forward. Her favourite drinks? A glass of rosé or white wine—light, bright, and ideal for relaxing or celebrating success.

Paolo – Renaissance Amsterdam, Specht (Netherlands)

Bartender

A creative force at the newly opened Specht, Paolo brings fresh energy to Amsterdam’s bar scene. He thrives on inventing new flavour combinations and delivering top-notch service—especially to guests seated at the counter. For Paolo, Rising Stars is the ultimate space to share, learn, and compete. His current drink obsession? A twist on the Bamboo, using Lillet Blanc for a soft and fresh finish that complements the dry character of Fino Sherry.

Michael – W Prague, W Lounge (Czech Republic)

Head Mixologist

Michael blends technical skill with storytelling flair—whether crafting drinks, engaging guests, or making sure the bar is spotless. For him, Rising Stars is a chance to push boundaries, meet inspiring peers, and explore everything this industry has to offer… possibly with a free drink in hand. His favourite? The Classic Daiquiri—bright, zesty, and endlessly versatile, proving how a tiny tweak can transform a timeless serve.

We can’t wait to welcome these talented professionals to France, where they’ll compete in the Rising Stars 2025 Grand Final. Follow their journey as they honour their memories, share their culture, and shake up the future of hospitality.

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