Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector.
Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC).
She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book.
She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter.
Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler.
It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
Celebrating Negroni week with the latest trends
Negroni Week, taking place from September 16-22, highlights innovative trends, as skilled Dubai bartenders craft creative twists on the classic cocktail, featuring unique flavors and techniques.
Creative Negroni cocktails
I wanted to share some exciting trends we’ve observed recently in Negroni cocktails. As you might have noticed, mixologists are becoming increasingly creative when it comes to this classic drink’s preparation. One standout trend involves experimenting with various spirits, extending beyond the traditional gin to explore new possibilities. Furthermore, bartenders are now incorporating mezcal and aged rum, adding unique twists to the classic Negroni recipe we know. Moreover, there is a growing interest in using craft and artisanal vermouths alongside bitters to elevate the cocktail’s profile. In addition, these high-quality ingredients greatly enhance the flavor, thus resulting in a richer, more complex Negroni drinking experience overall.
Saurabh Jadhav
Assistant Bar Manager
SUSHISAMBA
@sushisambadubai
Modern Techniques for Negroni cocktails
The current Negroni trend is progressing toward creative twists, where bartenders apply modern techniques to craft innovative cocktail variations. Additionally, this trend includes using craft ingredients and spirits that reflect the venue’s concept. Thus, enhancing its cultural identity.
Furthermore, when crafting a Negroni twist, it is essential to preserve the signature bittersweet taste while ensuring proper mixing and presentation. For example, at Signor Sassi, we aim to surprise guests with unusual flavor. In addition, we use scent blends that uniquely celebrate the rich Italian heritage.
Gianmarco De Luca
Bar and Lounge Manager
Signor Sassi
@signorsassidubai
Negroni cocktails with sophisticated twist
The current trend in Negroni cocktails is embracing sophisticated twists, featuring an impressive variety of unique flavors and infusions. Furthermore, at Mott 32, we feature innovative Negroni variations, including Jasmine and cream-washed version. For instance, the jasmine flower, deeply revered in Chinese culture adds a meaningful touch to this cocktail. Additionally, jasmine holds a sacred place in Buddhism, further enhancing its cultural and spiritual significance.
Yoriel Rojas
Assistant Bar Manager
Mott 32
@Mott32Dubai @yori_rojas11
Artisanal Negroni cocktails
The Negroni remains a bartender favorite, continuing to evolve as new trends shape its future in exciting ways. In 2024, we’re noticing a shift toward collaborations with artisanal gin producers, emphasizing quality and personalized craftsmanship. Bartenders are increasingly customizing the Negroni to suit individual guest tastes, focusing more on balance and refinement. Furthermore, I firmly believe that achieving the perfect balance and a golden touch is key to crafting today’s ideal Negroni. Moreover, this year, it’s about modernizing the classic, like our signature Kintsugi Negroni at ATTIKO.
Roman Tanasiev
Bar Manager
ATTIKO Dubai
@attikodubai @romantanasiev.alex
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Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.