Tryson Quek of Side Door Crowned Diageo World Class Singapore Bartender of the Year 2025
June 25th, 2025
The Diageo World Class Singapore Finals 2025, recently held at Baia marked the culmination of the World Class Bartender of the Year Competition, with six of the country’s top bartenders vying for the ultimate title through two dynamic challenges that tested innovation, speed, and storytelling.
Tryson Quek of Side Door emerged victorious as the World Class Bartender of the Year 2025 Singapore, earning the honour of representing Singapore at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto. Runner-up Marco Maiorano of KOMA, and Samuel Pang of Night Hawk, rounded out the Top 3 with their exceptional performances, creativity, and finesse behind the bar.
The night’s first challenge,“Drink to the Future,” called for an immersive luxury cocktail experience elevated by modern technology. Finalists were invited to imagine the cocktail of tomorrow — integrating flavour, form, and storytelling in a multi-sensory experience.
This was followed by the second challenge – “The Showdown” – a high-intensity service round designed to simulate the fast pace of a real-life bar. Each finalist had just five minutes to craft five cocktails, each inspired by a classic serve and showcasing the artistry behind five iconic World Class spirits: a Highball with a Twist using Johnnie Walker Blue Label, a Don Paloma with Don Julio 1942, a Zacapa Old Fashioned featuring Zacapa XO, a Singleton Manhattan with The Singleton 15YO, and a Martini made with Tanqueray No. TEN.
Tryson’s inventive approach, precision under pressure, and emotional storytelling set him apart, ultimately clinching the top honour.
Celebrating Craft, Creativity, and Camaraderie
In a nod to peer recognition, Ooi Foo Giap of Last Word was named “World Class Singapore 2025 Bartender’s Bartender”, a special award voted by all bartenders who participated in this year’s competition, reflecting his camaraderie, support, and leadership throughout the competition.
SUSHISAMBA Singapore was awarded “World Class Cocktail Festival Experience of 2025”, honouring the venue’s commitment to service excellence, innovation, and guest engagement in the cocktail space. Represented in the competition by Daniel Fong and Josh Goh, the SUSHISAMBA team showcased bold creativity and strong showings throughout the programme, reinforcing the venue’s reputation as one of Singapore’s most exciting cocktail destinations.
(images credit Diageo World Class)
