Lost + Found Drinkery
Lost + Found Drinkery, has won multiple awards and accolades, from being voted numerous times in the Worlds'50 Best Bars, to being top4 for best international bar team and best international cocktail bar at Tales of the cocktail.
In 2013, a passionate team and I embarked on a journey to create Lost + Found Drinkery in Nicosia, Cyprus. Over the next decade, through collective effort and shared vision, we transformed the establishment into a beacon of mixology excellence and a cornerstone of the local community.
1. Building Foundations Together (2013-2015):
Creating a Collective Vision: From the very beginning, our team was integral in shaping the identity of Lost + Found. We collaborated on everything from the design of the space to the selection of our first team members, laying the groundwork for a bar that was as much ours as it was the community's.
Cocktail Innovation as a Team: The early cocktail menu was a product of our joint creativity. Pooling our diverse experiences and tastes, we crafted a menu that was unique and reflective of our collective passion for bartending.
Empowering Our Staff: The initial training programs were a team effort. We pooled our knowledge and skills to create a culture of learning and growth, setting the stage for a service that was both professional and personal.
2. Growing and Gaining Recognition Together (2016-2018):
Evolving Our Offerings Collaboratively: As the bar matured, so did our menu and services. Regular brainstorming sessions and feedback mechanisms allowed us to continuously innovate and elevate our guests' experience.
Fostering Team Growth: Our focus on staff development was a shared priority. We celebrated each other’s successes and supported individual growth, which in turn enhanced our collective service quality.
Building a Global Network as a Unit: We collectively worked towards establishing Lost + Found on the global stage. Hosting international guest bartenders and participating in global events were team efforts that showcased our collective talents and hospitality.
3. Solidifying Our Success Through Systems (2019-2023):
Systemizing Excellence: Our focus shifted towards creating efficient, sustainable systems that ensured smooth operations. These systems were a product of our joint experiences and insights, designed to maintain high standards effortlessly.
Enhancing Guest Relations: We all played a role in deepening our relationships with our guests. By organizing regular events and personalizing experiences, we turned Lost + Found into more than just a bar – it became a community hub.
My decade at Lost + Found Drinkery stands as a testament to the power of teamwork and shared vision. Together, we not only built a successful bar but also a legacy that will continue to thrive on the systems and culture we established. It’s a journey that each of us is proud to have been a part of, and one that will continue to inspire the future of Lost + Found Drinkery.