bartender

Portrait: Gaz Hayes, “cocktails became a passion in Leeds”

Gaz Hayes was within the 20 finalists of the Confinement Bartender Contest – Best Confinement Tuto. Through our seven questions interview, we’ve learned a little more about him and his passion.

Nestled behind the bar of the the Laurys Cocktail Bar in the French Alps, Gaz Hayes answered our seven questions in regards to the Best Confinement Tuto, his career and how his bar is coping with Covid-19.

 

1- Where are you originally from?

Originally from Wales!!! Cymru am byth.

 

2 – How long have you been a bartender?

For as long as I was allowed to work I’ve gravitated to hospitality- so at least 15 years bartending with many different variations of it along the way.

 

3 – What brought you to the world of bartending / what inspired you to become a bartender?

As a youngster I was abandoned to work alone on a wedding bar pulling pints- the first thrill of being behind the stick. Cocktails became a passion on Call Lane in Leeds, North England.

 

4 – What have you discovered about yourself being a bartender?

How to be exhausted and keep your chin up.

 

5 – How is the situation in your city/country regarding Covid?

I’m living and working in France now, specifically the French alps in a small town called Morzine. We had a very long confinement period but have slowly and gradually returned to a sort of normality. Masks are now obligatory here and across the whole country. Its warm working a long shift but I’m 100% supportive of the regulations.

The company I work for has been super supportive of the teams and have dealt with the situation well. I hope others across France and the world have been looked after the same way.

 

6 – What inspired you to make the video you’ve sent us?

My amazing friend Mickey Fitz! A truly talented and creative man. Always inspiring! (@themickeyfitz)

 

7 – Is your bar open today?

Unfortunately we have decided to close our cocktail bar @laurysbar.morzine for the summer. However we will be back with a bang come December! In the meantime our cocktails have moved to @HideoutHostelMorzine and @cafechaud.morzine in the meantime!

Santé

 

Check out @un.pour.la.route on Instagram for inspiring cocktails.

 

Don’t drink and drive. Enjoy responsibly.

 

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