The 2024 ANGOSTURA® Bar & Beverage Awards gala ceremony was held in Cape Town to celebrate the best of South Africa’s bar and beverage industry. Local talent, recognized as some of the best in the world, took center stage. Bars, distributors, agencies, and individuals from across the country gathered for an unforgettable evening.
For the second consecutive year, Sin + Tax, a popular cocktail bar in Johannesburg, was awarded the prestigious title of Best Cocktail Bar.
Emerging on the scene in spectacular fashion was Talking to Strangers, which took home the award for Best New Cocktail Bar. Co-owner Alessandro Galassi expressed his gratitude by saying, “We’re really honoured to receive this award and to be part of such a vibrant and incredible community. Shout out to the fam!”
At the evening event, Joshua “JJ” Hendricks was announced as the winner of the Best Bartender award. JJ’s undeniable passion for the craft was evident in his heartfelt reaction to receiving the award. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am truly honoured and humbled to receive this award. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey – from my incredible team at Fable, friends within the bartending industry, and patrons who have supported me through every shake, stir, and pour. It’s your belief in me that fuels my creativity behind the bar.”
The award for Best Bar Team went to Sin + Tax, praised for their flawless execution and cohesive energy behind the bar. Marble claimed the title of Best Restaurant Bar, known for blending top-tier cocktails with a premium dining experience. Proud Mary in Johannesburg won the award for Best Hotel Bar, recognised for its exceptional service and elevated cocktail experience that sets the standard in the industry.
Best Cocktail Bar – Sin + Tax
Best New Cocktail Bar – Talking to Strangers
Best Hotel Bar – Proud Mary
Best Restaurant Bar – Marble
Best Bar Solutions – Just Short
Best Upliftment Programme or Initiative – Socks Flair Club
Best Bartender – Joshua “JJ” Hendricks
Best Bar Team – Sin + Tax
Best Support Staffer – Thandeka Ncube
Best Brand Ambassador – Caitlin Hill
Best Bar Communicator – Julian Short
Best Mentor – Leah Van Deventer
Industry Icons – Dale Parker, Evert de Jong, Nicholas Crouse, Stephanie Oosthuizen
Best CSI Campaign – Fitch & Leedes
Best New Local Product – Hope Distillery
Best Place to Work – fable
Best Distributor/Retail Outlet – Mothercity Liquor
We also paid tribute to the other outstanding submissions in both the bar and beverage award categories. From innovative bar solutions to game-changing initiatives and personal achievements, this year’s winners exemplified the excellence and passion driving the industry forward.
“Without our remarkable sponsors, we would not be able to recognise the talent in our own country, which is the case for many sectors,” says Paul Reynell of the Angostura Bar & Beverage Awards. “The contribution of our sponsors Thirst, S.Pellegrino Sparkling Water, Aqua Panna, and Fitch & Leeds is why we can get together and celebrate South African talent.”
In addition to the bar categories, the prestigious Industry Icon awards were presented to a remarkable group of individuals who have made an indelible impact on the industry. Dale Parker, Evert de Jong, Nicholas Crouse, and Stephanie Oosthuizen were each honored for their decades of dedication, leadership, and innovation. This one-time award celebrates their lasting contributions and influence in shaping South Africa’s vibrant bar and beverage landscape.
This year, a new award was introduced: the prestigious Legacy Award, honoring the pioneers whose enduring contributions have significantly shaped the beverage landscape. The addition of this award highlights the industry’s deep respect for those who have paved the way, ensuring a bright future for the next generation of trailblazers.
One of the most captivating moments of the evening was the presentation of the Legacy Awards to Timothy Hutchinson and Alan Shuman. These two industry leaders were honored for their exceptional contributions to the South African bar and beverage scene, which have helped shape it into the dynamic landscape we know today. Their vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence have set a benchmark for future generations. Undoubtedly, their legacy will continue to inspire the industry for years to come.
For more information about the ANGOSTURA® Bar & Beverage Awards, visit www.barandbeverageawards.co.za. Follow us on social media for updates: Instagram @bar_beverageawards and Facebook @barbeverageawards.
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Author: Tatum Bessick from PADDINGTON STATION PR (PTY) LTD on behalf of Bar & Beverage Awards.
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