In 2012, Chris Kantai started his humble journey in the hospitality industry, working as a dishwasher in the scullery of a restaurant. But within him, a spark ignited.
This is the story of how Chris transcended the confines of the scullery to become one of Kenya’s most celebrated mixologists, shaking and stirring his way to the top of the cocktail scene.
His path wasn’t without its challenges. Early on, he faced the societal stigma attached to bartending.
“My mother wouldn’t even meet me when I told her I was a mixologist,” Chris recalls.
But his passion was undeterred. He honed his skills under the tutelage of seasoned bartenders and enrolled in mixology school, soaking up knowledge like a sponge. He learned the delicate balance of flavours, the science behind mixology, and the art of presentation, transforming each cocktail into a symphony for the senses.
“For me, a good cocktail is an experience,” Chris says. “It’s not just about the taste, but the aroma, the visual appeal, even the sound of the ice clinking in the glass.”
He takes pride in understanding his customers’ palates and tailoring his creations to their individual preferences. Whether it’s a classic gin and tonic or a bold, contemporary concoction, he wants every sip to be a moment of discovery.
The Kenyan mixology scene has evolved tremendously since Chris’s early days.
“When I started, most people relied on classic cocktails,” he recalls. “Now, we’re experimenting with local ingredients, creating signature drinks that reflect our unique culture and palate.”
This shift, according to Chris, is driven by a growing appreciation for quality experiences and the demand for skilled mixologists like himself.
Today, Chris Kantai wears many hats: bar manager, trainer, and cocktail connoisseur.
He has opened and managed three restaurants and one hotel, each boasting his signature touch.
His brainchild, Zero 2020, is a testament to his dedication to culinary artistry, seamlessly blending fine dining with a vibrant club atmosphere.
It’s behind the bar where Chris truly shines. His eyes light up as he explains the story behind each creation, using ingredients like ginger, passionfruit, and even chai spices to paint a vibrant picture on the palate.
“A good cocktail will catch all of your senses. This is the question that I have always asked my customers: What’s your base? He says.
Despite the long hours and demanding nature of the work, Chris Kantai finds immense satisfaction in his craft.
“There’s something magical about creating something delicious and seeing the joy on people’s faces,” he says. “It’s more than just a job; it’s an art form, a way to connect with people and make them happy.”
Mixology with Captain Morgan cocktails
Captain Morgan’s new Gold Pack features three delicious cocktails that will spice up your festive gatherings.
“Well, Captain Morgan has been a good brand. First of all, as we all know, it has a vanilla taste for me. So it’s very easy for you to mix with each cocktail because it can pair with anything. As you can see, we have ginger pairing with Captain Morgan, lemonade pairing with Captain Morgan, and cola pairing with Captain Morgan. And we have tried so many things with it.”
- Captain and Cola: A Timeless Classic Treat your guests to the ever-popular Captain and Cola. This simple mix of Captain Morgan’s Caribbean rum and bubbly cola is a sure hit that captures the festive mood. Serve it over ice in tall glasses with a wedge of lime for a zesty twist.
- Captain and Ginger: A Warming Treat For those who like a bit of heat, Captain and Ginger is the ideal choice. The rich flavour of Captain Morgan’s Gold Pack rum blends perfectly with ginger ale, creating a sweet and spicy delight. Serve it in your favourite glasses, topped with fresh ginger and a splash of lime—a contemporary twist for those who seek some adventure in their celebrations.
- Captain and Lemonade: A Refreshing Surprise As the day goes on, switch to the light and refresh Captain and Lemonade. The tangy burst of fresh lemonade balances the smoothness of Captain Morgan’s Gold Pack. Pour it into tall glasses with lemon slices and a sugared rim for a classy touch—a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the festive spirit without overpowering their taste buds.
Chris’s ambitions extend beyond the bar. His ultimate dream is to own a club—a haven where food and cocktails intertwine in a symphony of flavour and experience.
“I envision a space where people can come together, enjoy delicious food, and savour expertly crafted drinks,” he muses.“A place where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create an unforgettable experience.”
