By Bartending Battle: World Class Kenya Turns 10
Top 40 Bartenders Begin Their Journey to Global Stage
The World Class Kenya 2025 Bartending Competition is back — bigger, bolder, and marking a decade of mixology excellence. Sponsored by Diageo and hosted by East African Breweries Limited (EABL), this year’s competition kicked off in style with a high-energy Community Day at the EABL offices.
Held on March 24, the event brought together 40 of Kenya’s most talented bartenders. They were shortlisted from 163 applicants, out of a record-breaking 301 registrations — a clear sign that Kenya’s cocktail scene is booming.
Bartending Battle: World Class Kenya Turns 10
Masterclass in Creativity and Storytelling
Community Day wasn’t just a meet-and-greet. It was a full-day immersion in the world of premium spirits. A highlight of the day was a deep dive into Don Julio tequila — from its origins in the agave fields of Jalisco, Mexico, to the complexity in every pour. Bartenders were challenged to create cocktails that do more than taste good — they must tell a story.
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Participants must explain the “why” behind their drinks. What inspired it? What emotion or memory does it stir? Alongside storytelling, judges will look for versatility, craftsmanship, and attention to sustainability — key values in today’s global bar culture.
From Kisumu to Mombasa, Mixologists Step Up
“This is the most exciting edition yet,” said Suwilanji Ngambi, EABL’s National Advocacy Manager. “We received submissions from across the country — Kisumu, Nyeri, Embu, and Mombasa. That shows just how fast Kenyan mixology is growing.”
Ngambi emphasized the impact of immersive brand training. “We’re arming these bartenders with knowledge and tools to push boundaries. They’re crafting bold, unforgettable cocktails that reflect both skill and story.”
The competition will culminate in a national final at the end of April. The winner will earn the chance to represent Kenya on the global stage in Toronto, Canada, competing against top mixologists from over 60 countries.
Mixing Talent, Culture, and Passion
As World Class Kenya 2025 unfolds, it’s doing more than celebrating cocktails. It’s building a community. It’s elevating a craft. And it’s putting Kenyan bartenders on the world map — one story-driven cocktail at a time.
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