Be At One’s Bartender Challenge made a triumphant return this year, shining a spotlight on the incredible skill, passion, and personality of our talented bartenders.
The grand finale took place at Be At One Regent Street, where Izzy Vince from Be At One Liverpool Street stirred up a storm to claim the £3,000 top prize and the coveted title of Bartender of the Year.
Over the past few months, more than 200 bartenders from 38 Be At One bars across the UK battled it out, showcasing their cocktail mastery and creativity. The journey began with high-energy in-bar heats, where bartenders went head-to-head, crafting standout drinks from Be At One’s legendary menu of 100 cocktails. Their flair and finesse wowed guests and judges alike.
After a fiercely contested final, Izzy from Be At One Liverpool Street emerged victorious, taking home the £3,000 grand prize. She wowed all five judges with her expert mixology, deep cocktail knowledge, and engaging stage presence - flawlessly crafting five cocktails in under 12 minutes.
One of the judges, Jess Pearson, Senior Brand Trainer at Be At One, said: “Izzy’s brand and cocktail knowledge is second to none. Despite the pressure of performing in front of a huge crowd, all five of her cocktails were unbelievable while her crowd engagement, pouring knowledge, speed and flair made for an amazing performance.
“At Be At One, we are the home to the magic-making masters of mixology and specially train all our bartenders to ensure that they are the best cocktail bartenders in the business.”
1st: Izzy - Liverpool Street
2nd: Rolland - Greek Street
3rd: Alex - Leeds Boar Lane
Fastest Bartender: Alex - Leeds Boar Lane
Most Knowledgeable: Rolland - Greek Street
Best Pourer: Grace - Russell Street
Best Flairer: Xavi - Regent Street
Best Bar: Leeds, Greek Street
Best Newcomer: Cadell - Russell Street
The Bartender Challenge is a key initiative at Be At One, designed to engage and retain top talent. Its impact is clear - 88% of last year’s finalists and 83% of semi-finalists remain part of the team today.
Beyond talent retention, the competition drives commercial success by nurturing confident, highly skilled bartenders who elevate the guest experience. It also strengthens team culture, celebrates individual and collective achievements, and inspires new starters by showcasing role models behind the bar.
