Marco Pierre White recently crowned Ryan Chetiyawardana as the ‘UK’s Best Bartender’.

The final of World Class 2009 (bar tending golden globes equivalent) showcased the finest bar tending in the UK. The event took place at the Kent House, Knightsbridge.

Apparently the event pushed the finalists to the very limits of their capabilities with innovation, mixology and creativity at the heart of many challenges.

After a highly competitive and tense final round, Ryan was declared the winner with his impressive and delicious Three Storm Flip cocktail (recipe below).

Marco Pierre White says

“I’ve been totally blown away by the skill of the bartenders in this final. To make a great drink takes a lot of hard work, a lot of understanding; it’s not just about putting alcohol into a shaker. What I wanted to see was someone who could engage me, give me something I’d never had before and that was exactly what Ryan did. He was phenomenal – not only with his drinks but also with his knowledge and personality behind the bar and fully deserved the title.”

Ryan’s winning recipe:
Three Storm Flip
50ml Pampero Aniversario
25ml Velvet Falernum Liqueur
2 dashes Regan’s Orange Bitters
5ml Lagavulin 16
1 whole egg
A pinch of salt and pepper
Nutmeg Garnish

Method – dry shake all ingredients. Then shake with cubed ice and double strain.