Looking into THE CONNAUGHT BAR, filled with alluring energy, you find yourself in a completely different world. Here, a professional team of mixologists always on the lookout for the best ingredients, the most innovative methods and concepts, continues to stay ahead of the game, reworking classics into extraordinary creations that never cease to delight gourmet drink lovers from all over the world.
The award-winning CONNAUGHT BAR has been listed no.8 best bar in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022.
THE CONNAUGHT BAR opened its doors in 2008 when rising mixology star Agostino, or Ago, Perrone was called to bring his innovative flair to the newly refurbished hotel bar. Today, Ago has not only built a legacy that resonates globally but also nurtured one of the strongest and most passionate teams on the bar scene with the invaluable support of Assistant Director of Mixology Giorgio Bargiani, and Bar Manager Maura Milia.
THE CONNAUGHT BAR, situated at The Connaught Hotel on Mount Street, Mayfair in London, is designed by David Collins Studio. Ultra-stylish and elegant decor and original cocktails put THE CONNAUGHT BAR in a league of its own. Inspired by English cubism and Irish art from the 1920s, David Collins has created a London bar gem, where textured walls in platinum silver leaf covered with dusty pink, pistachio and lilac set the stylish tone.
The bar team has created a direction that is distinguished by a professional approach, first-class and memorable service that is offered to its guests.
The unique and sophisticated approach to hospitality and cocktails of Ago, who is also the Director of Mixology, has earned him continued international recognition along with the unrivaled popularity of THE CONNAUGHT BAR.
In the Photo: Mulata Daisy — a favourite creation of Director of Mixology Ago Perrone, this award-winning contemporary classic is inspired by a true love. (Bacardi Heritage 44% Rum, Crème de cacao, fresh Lime juice, Caster sugar, Fennel seeds, Galliano L’Autentico)
Since moving to London from native Lake Como in 2003, Ago has marked the industry for introducing creative and innovative cocktails with an elegant twist into the classic style service of hotel bars making these venues more approachable and exciting drinking destinations.
Strong advocate of offering guests a highly personalised experience, along a perfect balance of taste tradition and innovation, Ago’s contribution to the industry over the past 14 years has been invaluable and prized with a numerous list of personal awards: World’s Best Bartender at Tales of the Cocktail 2010, Best European Mixologist at the Mixology Bar Awards 2017 and 2017 Imbibe Bar Personality of the Year. Today, you can find Ago at THE CONNAUGHT BAR, where guests arrive from every corner of the world to be served his famed Martini.
In the Photo: Giorgio Bargiani & his famous Martini pour
Giorgio Bargiani, who is not only the right hand of mixology titan Ago Perrone, but also a world-class ambassador for cocktails and hospitality, together made his signature Martini pour world-famous.
However, Giorgio’s passion for hospitality roots back to a very young age, starting as a family affair in his aunt’s restaurant bar in Pisa, Italy. Working as a bartender at local nightclubs during his communications studies, he was fascinated by the atmosphere, the creativity, and the relationship-building opportunities offered by the job — the same elements that still fuel his captivating enthusiasm.
In the Photo: Connaught Martini from MASTERPIECES — the legendary cocktails for which The Connaught is renowned: famous recipes redefined, re-inspired and creatively reinvented. This classic aperitif is served with a unique twist from famous trolley, tailored to guest’s taste with handmade bitters. (Tanqueray No.10 Gin, blend of dry vermouths, selection of bitters)
After moving to London and working first as a bartender, Giorgio, with incredible drive and talent, gradually rose to the position of chief mixologist in January 2019. With a passion for telling interesting stories and determined to make each drinking experience highly memorable, Giorgio never misses a chance to inspire the people around him, be it these bar guests, colleagues or attendees to the numerous masterclasses and events he hosts all over the world.
Awarded ‘Bar Manager of the Year’ at CLASS Bar Awards 2022, a native of Sardinia, Maura Milia joined the bar in 2014, starting as a waitress and then in 2019 became the bar’s deputy manager.
During this journey marked by determination and a shared commitment to extraordinary hospitality, Maura achieved the important recognition of ‘Front of House Star of the Year’ at the Class Bar Awards 2018. The very first time that a woman and a front of house staff member was awarded in the history of THE CONNAUGHT BAR, Maura’s recognition is testament to her positive impact on the venue as well as to the talent of women in hospitality.
For Maura, creating experiences for THE CONNAUGHT BAR guests does not only revolve around the top-quality creations served, but first and foremost around the way these are delivered. A meticulous attention to detail, storytelling and impeccable synergy within the team, make the guest experience second to none at THE CONNAUGHT BAR.
THE CONNAUGHT BAR cocktail menu is a marriage of tradition and innovation, using exclusive vintage wines and champagnes, spirits and limited edition liquors.
The Food menu represents selection of premium Caviar, Canapés, Raw appetizers and Pizza.
The Connaught Bar
www.the-connaught.co.uk/connaught-bar
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 4pm – 1am
Address: The Connaught hotelCarlos Place, 16Mayfair, London, Great Britain, W1K 2AL
Contacts: +44 20 7314 3419
Instagram: @theconnaught
@agodragos
@giorgio_bar_giani
Text: Marina Timo
Photo courtesy: EATWEEKGUIDE
