Top Bartenders Win 2026 Sustainable Mixology Semi-Final
Two Thai bartenders won the TCLM regional semi-final in Bangkok, advancing to the 2026 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship grand final in Singapore.
Marriott International Crowns Regional "Rising Stars" at 2026 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship
Marriott International has named the regional winners for Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar (TCLM) following the semi-finals of its 2026 APEC Sustainable Bartender Championship, hosted at W Bangkok’s W Lounge on June 25, 2026.
Organized in partnership with global spirit leader Pernod Ricard, the event challenged six top mixologists from across Marriott’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio to showcase technical skill, zero-waste innovation, and destination-driven storytelling.
The competition directly aligns with Marriott’s Serve 360 ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework by tasking bartenders to combine premium Pernod Ricard spirits with the “Future Larder”—a selection of locally sourced, eco-conscious ingredients designed to minimize food waste.
Meet the Regional Champions
Following an intense series of mixology challenges—including a mystery "Black Box Final"—two winners were selected to represent the region at the APEC Grand Final in Singapore this September:
Phichitchai “Mike” Saencharusuchit (Bar Supervisor, The St. Regis Bar, The St. Regis Bangkok)
Winning Cocktail: The G.O.A.T (Grounded. Origin. Artisanal. Thai.)
Key Ingredients & Technique: Fat-washed Código 1530 Tequila Blanco using surplus goat cheese, combined with local fig leaves, house-made fig mustard, and spiced jalapeño liqueur crafted from repurposed fruit basket scrap garnishes.
Tanatat “Sam” Boon-Anuwat (Senior Bartender, Caleō, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok)
Winning Cocktail: Magenta Sour
Key Ingredients & Technique: Created under the "From Waste to Wonder" theme, pairing Olmeca Altos Plata tequila with Thai coconut vinegar. The drink utilizes every part of the dragon fruit—juice, pulp, and a repurposed edible peel garnish.
Road to the APEC Grand Final
Both winners will travel to Singapore in September 2026 to compete in the APEC-wide grand final. Grand final champions will win an all-expenses-paid trip to a Marriott destination in Asia-Pacific, an exclusive immersion at a Pernod Ricard Brand Home, and a guest bartending tour across premier regional bars.
Key Takeaway for Hospitality Leaders:
By pairing high-end mixology with strict zero-waste mandates, Marriott International continues to demonstrate how eco-friendly practices can elevate luxury guest experiences while supporting broader sustainability targets. To learn more about Marriott’s ESG commitments, visit serve360.marriott.com.
