Hotels to Handcrafted Mixology

In an exclusive interview, Business Traveller India delves into Lorenzo Antinori's (owner and cofounder of Bar Leone in Hong Kong) remarkable journey from managing elite hotels to launching Bar Leone, his bespoke bar in Hong Kong.

Bar Leone - Awarded No 2 in the World

How did your background in hospitality influence your decision to venture into the crowded Hong Kong beverage market?

Born and raised in Rome, I've spent 14 years navigating the hospitality landscape. My journey began at London's iconic The Savoy's American Bar, followed by a stint at Four Seasons Seoul, where I spearheaded the beverage program for Charles H., their esteemed speakeasy. A subsequent transfer to Hong Kong led to the successful launch of Argo, where I led the beverage program for nearly five years.

At 35, I craved a new challenge. Leaving the security of a luxury hotel chain behind, I partnered with my business partners to launch Bar Leone. Taking a leap of faith, we created a unique space that reflects our passion and vision.

Hong Kong, with its vibrant energy and cosmopolitan spirit, inspired me to take the risk. Bar Leone represents a dream realised - a bespoke bar where creativity, quality, and community converge.

What role does your team play in Bar Leone's triumph?

At Bar Leone, our team's consistency and camaraderie have been instrumental to our success. Since day one, the core of the Bar Leone team has remained the same. We've always focused on building a sense of community - almost like a second family, around the bar. We truly value our team members and strive to keep them motivated, showing them that they're part of something greater than just a bar.

This strong sense of belonging fuels our team's passion and dedication. They believe in Bar Leone's vision - a platform for growth, learning, and exploration in the world of beverages. Their excitement and enthusiasm make them exceptional ambassadors.

Our team's commitment is a key factor in our achievement. By valuing and empowering them, we've created a dynamic that drives excellence and fosters a loyal following.