The bartender

Luke Whearty

BYRDI - (VIC)

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A BARTENDER?

The ability to use drinks as a creative outlet.

WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE?

I’ve had too many to mention just one. But I would say in general anyone that dedicates their life to their craft inspires me.

The hero cocktail

Hiro San

Named after my father in law Hirosan Nishikura and inspired by the first sushi course on his omakase menu at his restaurant Shira Nui in Melbourne. The drink is based on the foundation of every sushi chef and what Hiro san has built his career on which is rice. Also the foundation that Roku gin is built upon.

Ingredients

• Roku Gin Re-Distilled with Tasmanian Wasabi

• Melbourne Sake

• Hiro San Secret Seasoning

• Shio Koji

Like this cocktail? The full recipe can be found in this year’s copy of the Top 25 Bartenders. Get your copy by clicking the button below.

The bar

BYRDI

BYRDI is a modern Australian cocktail bar focusing on seasonal Australian ingredients and working closely with local producers and has been open since October 2019.

Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday,
5 pm – 11 pm

Friday to Saturday,
5 pm – 12 am