Birmingham Bartender stuns competitors with award-winning cocktail, named best in the UK

A bartender from Grosvenor Casino Birmingham Hill Street, Sunil Jhamnani, has been named Bartender of the Year.

His innovative cocktail, Sun Maria, impressed the judges, including the UK’s most famous bartender, Merlin Griffiths from First Dates.

Merlin Griffiths commented on the competition, run by Grosvenor Casinos’ in which Sunil’s creation beat 50 other drinks, saying: “The competition has been so enjoyable in so many ways – you can see the talent coming through in each cocktail and it’s been exciting to witness. It has been a joy to taste each cocktail!”

Sunil’s creation, a blend of sweet and spicy flavours, was inspired by his Indian roots and his observations of the UK’s love for sweetness. The cocktail combines mango and agave with the spicy citrus finish of el Jimador tequila, balanced with Aperol, Cointreau, and a jalapeño garnish.

On his win, Sunil said: “It has been wonderful to be recognised by my company at Grosvenor Casinos. Sun Maria was inspired by the spices I love from India and the sweetness that you find in the UK, coming together to make a delicious cocktail with a kick.” Sun Maria was a real crowd-pleaser at the competition.

David Beaumont, Brand Beverage Development Manager at Grosvenor Casinos, praised Sunil’s creation, saying, “Sunil really impressed the judging panel with his Sun Maria creation. It was the perfect mix of sweet and spice.”

With his new title, Sunil plans to continue creating exciting cocktails. As part of his prize, Sun Maria will be added to the cocktail menu at all Grosvenor Casinos venues.