Many moons ago, Thabisó Molonyama developed a love for mixology. Over the years he went from the go-to cocktail guy to an international award-winning cocktail mixologist.
When cocktail hour calls, you better believe Thabisó Molonyama will be on the frontline, whipping up some of the most innovative – and delish – mixtures you’ll ever taste. It’s no wonder he walked away the African winner of the Johnnie Walker Global Bartender Challenge, with other hailing from Asia, Australasia, South and Central America and Europe.
Thabisó’s winning serve? A balanced blend of Johnnie Walker Black Label, Aperol, orange bitters, lemon yuzu and cranberry juice. And, of course, a little bit of magic!
“I wanted the woodiness and fruitiness of the Johnnie Walker Black Label to shine through. All while keeping it elegantly simple, yet complex in experience.”
The cocktail wizard’s mixing journey started a little more than a decade ago, when he was bartending to support his jewellery design and manufacture, and accountancy studies. But before he knew it, his curiosity about the molecular side of the fine art of mixology was sparked. And so he ditched the worlds of gems and numbers for the tasty beverage industry. This, combined with his deep love for people and innovation, quickly made him a potent force in the world of tantalising and aesthetic drinks.
It wasn’t long before he opened The Everyday Bar – a Hospitality Consultancy Firm and Mobile Bar Services company in Pretoria. Passionate about pushing the boundaries of taste and presentation, this bar doesn’t believe in repeating a drink … “except of course for the Nimbus Moon”, his winning signature cocktail.
Although he’s an advocate for the classics – martini, old fashioned, negronis and margaritas – Thabisó will always aim to blow the minds of his guests with his visually spectacular and delicious cocktails.
Always one step ahead of the trend, Thabisó shares more about what happens when science meet the senses.
Details: Follow The Eveveryday Bar on Facebook and Insta, and sans_suchii on Insta
What inspires you?
The fact that people come to me mostly when they are happy or celebrating something. It allows me a distinctive insight into the human psychology. Something few people get to witness. This, and experiencing the joy in people when they see you preparing their drink from start to finish. It’s about that face of wonder. You can’t capture such moments on camera, and that’s what’s so special to me.
The difference between a good and a great bartender?
Definitely passion! A passion for the industry, passion for people, and passion for life is most important. Being versatile and loving what you do also gives you more longevity within the ‘drinking space’.
Must-have qualities of a mixologist?
First and foremost – a hunger for knowledge, because I believe that information is currency. The more you know, the more you can use it to your advantage and set yourself apart from the rest. Secondly – you’ll have to remember a lot of different combinations for mixtures. So, you must want to study to know, not to remember. And lastly, you’re going to have to be patient, and persevere. As with anything worthwhile in life, this skill takes a lot of time to master.
Any advice for home mixologists?
It really is quite simple – just follow the recipe, and make sure you understand the instructions. And, if you still fail after numerous attempts, just call me! Stick to your day job, and I’ll stick to mine, haha.
Best hangover prevention tip?
It goes without saying, but always keep hydrated with water before and during drinking. And for the day after a big session… I find a beer, egg and tequila shot always does the trick. You can also never go wrong with a Bloody Mary after a hectic night.
Your career aspirations?
I wish to explore the less known and less experimented with indigenous health-conscious but yet yummy ingredients. I want to show South Africa, and the world, just what a force for diversity and innovation one can be. With that said, I want to improve on the country’s drinking culture – make it more about enjoying drinks, rather about getting intoxicated. Although I can’t change the world, it can most definitely start with me.
Nimbus Moon recipe:
Thabisó shares his signature sipper that took him to the top.
You’ll need: 50ml Johnnie Walker Black; 20ml Aperol; 2tbs orange bitters; 10ml lemon yuzu; 20ml cranberry juice; candied ginger and soaked pepper for garnish; ice.
To make: Shake and fine strain ingredients over an ice cube, preferably in an LSA Martini glass. Then add garnish and remember to serve with a smile.
7 Pro-tips for a home cocktail:
There is nothing worse than a poorly made cocktail… but thanks to some of Thabisó’s top tips you’ll never suffer through another one again.
- Always follow the recipe.
- Just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean its quality.
- Invest in cocktail making equipment if you love cocktails so that it’s easier and more practical to make drinks.
- More ice in the drink means less dilution.
- Always choose local.
- Drink responsibly.
- Call me if it gets complicated.
Compiled by: Alanicka Lotriet. • Photographer: Melon Photography.
