Cover Chloe Tan (Photo: Chloe Tan)
Chloe Tan (Photo: Chloe Tan)
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Tan was recently named one of the Global Top 5 of the coveted ‘Hennessy My Way 2022’ challenge
The only female bartender to secure a spot in the Global Top 5 of the 'Hennessy My Way 2022' challenge, Chloe Tan is undoubtedly making waves in the industry. Born and raised in Pahang, Malaysia, cacao from her hometown was a key component in her winning cocktail, a chocolate-topped concoction titled Loco Coco that incorporated Hennessy. Tan is currently based at Cabinet 8 by JWC in Johor.
We speak to Tan about all things drinks, from her favourite cocktails to her most memorable pours to date.
See also: A Festive Cuppa: Pastry Chef Pierre Hermé Reveals His Favourite Holiday Traditions
An early (in your career) drink that intrigued you
A cocktail called Apple Pie, made by my bar partner, Justin Tay. It was such a special cocktail as it tasted like a delicious, liquid version of the dessert! It was the perfect balance of sweet and sour with a cinnamon aroma and buttery mouthfeel.
Most memorable cocktail
I recently encountered the best martini I’ve had, made at Charles H. Bar during my last visit to Seoul, Korea.
Tipple for a Tuesday
A margarita. I’d suggest making a Hennessy margarita if you're feeling fancy for a more spirit-forward margarita.
What goes into your favourite cocktail?
I love classic cocktails. My top two choices would be a martini and a sidecar.
Drink of the moment
Cosmopolitan, which I have had at least five times this month!
Favourite drink to make for a customer
I don't have a particular favourite drink to make for a customer, as I know each of my customers have their own favourite flavours. At Cabinet 8 by JWC, which has no set menu, we love giving our customers surprises that suit their flavour preferences.
What drink would you make for a big moment?
I would start with a good French 75, which is a champagne cocktail. Picking a great champagne would be the start—Dom Pérignon for a special occasion—and then choosing a gin. One could even choose to spice things up with some Hennessy VSOP.
What you love to recommend to guests at your bar
Usually, I observe their preferences and recommend one of our newly crafted cocktails accordingly, as we are constantly inventing new flavour profiles in our little mixology lab!
See also: Here’s How to Make the Ultimate Beef Wellington for Your Next Dinner Party
What you would bring to a dinner party
You can’t go wrong with a good bottle of wine.
Last drink you’ve had
Sidecar.
It’s your last meal, what are you having with it?
Petrus!
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About
Katelyn is the dining and travel editor of Malaysia and Indonesia. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she offers readers an inside look at the movers and shakers in Asia’s growing food and beverage industry.
