Company: Teddy's Speakeasy and Teddy's Elixir

Position: Director of Product Development

Meet Rastislav Kasár, a 26-year-old Slovak professional whose journey in the culinary world is marked by self-sufficiency, independence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Balancing learning and part-time work in Slovakia, where he earned a modest 2 euros per hour for grueling 12-hour shifts, provided a foundation for his strong work ethic and appreciation for the value of hard work. His journey took an international turn when Rastislav secured an internship in the French Alps at Val d'Isere and Tignes through a hospitality and trade school in Slovakia.

Initially, he worked at the iconic American Bar at the Savoy. Following this enriching experience, he expanded his expertise by working in various coffee shops, including the distinguished Scarfes Bar at the Rosewood Hotel. The culmination of this phase was joining the opening team of Kwānt by Erik Lörincz, where Rastislav's skills contributed to propelling Kwānt into the top 10 bars globally, solidifying his position as a key player in the competitive world of mixology.

Beyond the bar counter, Rastislav's dedication extends to coffee, where he has not only won several coffee and cocktail competitions but also represented the UK at the World Championships in Taiwan in 2023, a testament to his versatility and skill.

Rastislav continues to refine his craft, he envisions a future where he can blend his love for coffee and bartending by opening a café/aperitif bar. His goal is clear: to care for the well-being of his guests by nourishing both their souls and stomachs. People often ask him "when," but for Rastislav Kasár, the journey is as important as the destination.

When posed with the question of whether he prefers bartending or coffee, Rastislav provides a fitting response: "Rasty is neither a bartender nor a barista, but equally both." In this declaration, he encapsulates the essence of his multifaceted expertise and unwavering passion for the culinary arts.

In his latest venture, Rastislav has embarked on a new chapter, moving to Athens, Greece, where he joins the family of Teddy's Speakeasy and Teddy's Elixir as a Director of Product Development. This exciting move represents not only a change in location but also an opportunity for Rastislav to contribute his innovative ideas to these distinguished establishments, further enriching his global culinary journey.

The future holds promise for Rastislav Kasár as he continues to shape the gastronomic landscape with his unique blend of talent, dedication, and boundless enthusiasm.