Bartenders

Patrick Pistolesi

WHO ARE YOU AND WHERE ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING?

I’m Patrick Pistolesi, half Irish, half Italian and I opened Drink Kong in Rome. It's inspired by the Japanese culture with some Blade Runner, we call it an “instinct” bar. Our drinks list is called New Humans, based on symbols and taste profiles. It’s an exploration.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THE INDUSTRY WE MIGHT NOT KNOW

Working in this industry means a making lot of sacrifices, but you do it as an act of love.

Ever had a BADASS/rock n roll BARTENDING MOMENT?

I am living it now, after 22 years of working and travelling around the world, the satisfaction of having created this bar in late 2018 and making it on the World’s 50 Best Bars list this year, despite the pandemic!

WHERE would we usually FIND YOU ON YOUR DAY OFF?

In normal times, in a pub with a shot and a beer. Now, at home with my wife and Bill Murray, my dog.

WHAT’S YOUR SUPERPOWER?

I can read people’s minds. In an instant, I can “get” people. It’s quite useful.

IF YOU WEREN’T RUNNING BARS, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING?

I would probably be a scholar or an actor.

YOU LAUNCHED NIO (NEEDS ONLY ICE) FLAT PACK COCKTAILS. WHAT IS IN YOUR NIO EMERGENCY KIT?

A Negroni, A Margarita, an Old Fashioned, and a vodka Gimlet.

IF YOU COULD USE ONLY ONE SPIRIT FOR THE REST OF YOUR CAREER, what would it be?

Tequila.

What is your dessert island cocktail?

A Margarita or a Gin & Tonic. To sip slowly.

If you were gonna create a COCKTAIL for BarChick, what WOULD YOU make?

A gin gimlet with fresh ginger, it’s good for a boy or girl and it’s a little naughty.

Type

Bartenders