Crown Perth announce that three of its exceptional bartenders—Nic Lee from La Vie, Harry Tran from Lobby Lounge, and Afla Ahmed from Bistro Guillaume—have been named among the Top 100 in the prestigious World Class Australia Bartender Awards 2025. This recognition reaffirms Crown Perth’s commitment to world-class service, innovation, and craftsmanship in hospitality.

The World Class Australia Bartender Awards is regarded as the premier competition in the industry, highlighting the country’s most talented mixologists who push the boundaries of creativity, skill, and guest experience.

Brian Pereira, Interim CEO of Crown Perth, commended the bartenders for their outstanding achievement.

“We are thrilled to see Nic, Harry, and Afla receive this well-deserved recognition in such a competitive arena. Their dedication to innovation, technique, and storytelling through cocktails sets a new benchmark for excellence in the industry,” he said.

Each bartender’s submission was inspired by an industry icon, crafting a signature cocktail that reflects their mentor’s philosophy and artistry:

Nic Lee (La Vie) – ‘Book of Senses’

Inspired by Giacomo Giannotti of Paradiso Barcelona, Nic’s cocktail engages all five senses to create an immersive experience. Crafted with Ketel One Vodka, a homemade osmanthus and cardamom cordial, bergamot, and sea salt, ‘Book of Senses’ is served in an interactive book, with a spritz of magnolia mist and a captivating smoke effect that embodies Giannotti’s commitment to multi-sensory mixology.

Harry Tran (Lobby Lounge) – ‘Echoes of Japan’

Drawing inspiration from Shingo Gokan, a visionary in cocktail storytelling, Harry created ‘Echoes of Japan’ using Johnnie Walker Blue Label, honey and ginger syrup, a pinch of salt, and midnight bloom bitters. A final touch of yuzu mist adds a fresh citrus aroma, embodying Gokan’s philosophy of seamlessly blending tradition with innovation to create an unforgettable sensory journey.

Afla Ahmed (Bistro Guillaume) – ‘Spice Age’

Inspired by Don Ranasinghe of Sri Lanka’s Smoke & Bitters, Afla’s cocktail pays homage to South Asia’s rich spice heritage. Using Ron Zacapa rum as its foundation, ‘Spice Age’ combines cinnamon syrup, jasmine-infused orgeat, and a clarified coconut cream finish, resulting in a velvety, aromatic tiki-style drink that bridges tradition and contemporary craftsmanship.