From hundreds of bartenders to just one, it was Danilo Frigulti from Viajante87 bar in Notting Hall who was crowned the winner of Diageo’s World Class GB final in June. Since establishing himself as a barista in the south of Italy where he’s from, it was a move to London that kickstarted a bartender path, first at The London Edition, then The Nomad Hotel where he progressed all the way to Head Bartender.
Competing against 22 other finalists over a couple of days in London, Frigulti shone in a series of challenges such as The Don Julio, an outside the box challenge using Don Julio tequila and a mystery box of ingredients, and The Walker of the World which challenged bartenders to become inspired by a particular country using Johnnie Walker. Once the group was whittled down to 10, an intense four cocktails in four minutes speed round took place and then the winner was finally announced.
Speaking after his victory, Frigulti said, “Wow, this is incredible; I’ve worked in this amazing industry for 5 years now and I’m so proud to be recognised like this for a career and industry I feel so lucky to be part of.”
So, what now? Well, Frigulti will fly the fag for Great Britain at the prestigious Diageo World Class Global Final in Shanghai from the 9th-13th September later this year. If he’s successful, there’s every chance he’ll be back at the British finals next year because Matt Arnold, 2023’s winner was in attendance dishing out his Dinosaur Food cocktail with Johnnie Walker Black Label front and centre.
If you want to follow this journey or perhaps even put yourself forward for next year, find more information on the @worldclassgreatbritain Instagram or website.