St. Regis Jakarta has announced the appointment of Paulo Laihee Naranjo as its new Bar Manager, bringing a wealth of experience and innovative flair to the prestigious establishment. Naranjo, known for his creative cocktail concoctions and exceptional customer service, aims to elevate the bar experience at St. Regis, blending classic techniques with modern trends. His vision includes introducing a curated selection of artisanal spirits and bespoke cocktails that reflect the vibrant culture of Jakarta. Guests can look forward to an enhanced atmosphere and unique offerings that promise to redefine luxury dining and nightlife in the city.
Q&A: Elevating Jakarta’s Bar Scene with Paulo Laihee Naranjo, New Bar Manager at St. Regis Jakarta
Editor: Paulo, congratulations on your appointment as the Bar Manager at St. regis Jakarta! To start, can you share a bit about your background and what brought you to this prestigious role?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: thank you! I’ve spent over a decade honing my craft in various renowned establishments around the world. My passion for mixology began early on, and my experience ranges from high-energy cocktail bars to fine dining restaurants. The opportunity to join St. Regis Jakarta was irresistible—it’s a chance to blend classic cocktail techniques with innovative flair in a culturally rich city.
Editor: You mentioned blending classic techniques with modern trends.Can you elaborate on what that looks like in practice?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: Absolutely! My approach is to honor the heritage of cocktail crafting while incorporating contemporary elements.As a notable example, I plan to use artisanal spirits that narrate the story of Jakarta’s vibrant culture.This means crafting bespoke cocktails that not only taste exceptional but also reflect local flavors and ingredients. Think of classic cocktails with a twist, like a modern twist on a Negroni using local botanicals.
Editor: That sounds intriguing. How do you envision the bar experience evolving under your leadership at St. Regis Jakarta?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: My vision is to create an immersive atmosphere where guests don’t just sip cocktails,but experience them. I aim to offer a curated selection of drinks that tell a story—perhaps a cocktail inspired by Jakarta’s history or its culinary scene. I believe that enhancing the visual and sensory appeal of the experience will redefine luxury dining and nightlife in the city.
Editor: With Jakarta’s dynamic culture in mind, how do you plan to engage with local ingredients and flavors in your cocktails?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: Engaging with local ingredients is at the heart of my philosophy.I’m excited about collaborating with local farmers and artisans to source unique ingredients. This not only supports the local economy but also allows us to offer something truly authentic and reflective of Jakarta’s culture. Seasonal menus that highlight these ingredients are also in the works.
Editor: As an expert in customer service, how important do you think exceptional service is to the overall bar experience?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: Exceptional service is critical. A grate cocktail can be overshadowed by poor service, so my team and I will be trained to provide a memorable experience from the moment guests arrive. Engaging with guests, understanding their preferences, and making personalized recommendations are key to creating loyalty and ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.
Editor: What advice would you give to aspiring bartenders who want to make their mark in a competitive industry like Jakarta’s nightlife?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: My advice is to never stop learning. The industry is always evolving, so staying updated on trends, techniques, and ingredients is crucial. Additionally,build your palate by exploring various flavors and styles.Lastly, cultivate strong connections within the industry; collaboration can lead to exciting opportunities and innovative ideas.
Editor: Thank you, Paulo, for sharing your insights. As you settle into your role, what can guests look forward to experiencing at the St. Regis bar?
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: Guests can expect an invigorating, elevated bar experience that celebrates both local culture and craftsmanship. With our curated artisanal spirits and bespoke cocktails, we hope to create a space where every visit feels like a special occasion. I’m looking forward to welcoming guests and making St. Regis Jakarta a beacon of luxury nightlife in the city.
Editor: We can’t wait to see how your vision unfolds! Thank you for your time, Paulo.
Paulo Laihee Naranjo: Thank you for having me!