EDITOR L
THE FUTURE OF THE LOUNGE BAR
AI CONVERSATION WITH MIXOLOGIST AARON IVERSON
we asked the AI to envision the future of the lounge bar, and we had a conversation with the fictional mixologist Aaron Iverson, who gave us his professional point of view
MR IVERSON, HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE LOUNGE BAR OF THE FUTURE?
The lounge bar of the future will be defined by AI-driven customization, where cocktails are crafted to suit each guest’s unique palate and preferences, with sustainability at its core—featuring locally sourced ingredients and zero-waste practices. The environment will balance innovation and elegance, using technology to subtly enhance the experience without overshadowing the warmth of the space. At its heart, the bar will remain a hub for human connection, where craft, conversation, and shared experiences are the essence of the evening.
YOU MENTIONED AI-DRIVEN CUSTOMIZATION, HOW DO YOU THINK TECHNOLOGY WILL BALANCE INNOVATION WITH THE ART OF TRADITIONAL MIXOLOGY?
Technology should enhance, not replace, the artistry of mixology. AI can help us better understand guest preferences and optimize flavor combinations while preserving the hands-on creativity that defines our craft. It’s about using tech to elevate the experience without losing the human touch.
WITH THE BAR REMAINING A HUB FOR HUMAN CONNECTION EVEN IN A WORLD INCREASINGLY DRIVEN BY TECHNOLOGY, HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN THAT PERSONAL TOUCH WHEN CRAFTING A GUEST’S COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE?
The key is genuine interaction. I make it a point to engage with guests, listen to their preferences, and share stories behind each cocktail. Personalization is about creating memorable connections that technology alone can’t replicate.
IN TERMS OF ATMOSPHERE, HOW DO YOU ENVISION CREATING AN ELEGANT AND INVITING SPACE WITHOUT LETTING THE TECHNOLOGICAL ASPECTS TAKE CENTER STAGE? WHAT IS THE BALANCE BETWEEN INNOVATION AND INTIMACY IN A LOUNGE BAR?
Atmosphere should feel organic and welcoming. I envision subtle tech integration that enhances the space—like mood lighting that adjusts with the time of day—while maintaining rich textures and comfortable seating to foster intimate conversations. It’s all about creating an inviting environment where guests feel at home.
“At its heart, the bar will remain a hub for human connection, where craft, conversation, and shared experiences are the essence of the evening.”
WHEN IT COMES TO PRODUCTS USED IN MIXOLOGY, WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU BELIEVE ARE ESSENTIAL FOR COMPANIES TO CONSIDER WHEN DEVELOPING NEW TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT FOR FUTURE LOUNGE BARS?
Products should prioritize functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. Tools must be intuitive and durable, while also reflecting the elegance of the bar environment. Emphasizing sustainable materials will resonate with eco-conscious guests and enhance the overall experience.
WHAT ROLE DO YOU SEE UNIQUE PRESENTATION STYLES PLAYING IN THE EVOLUTION OF COCKTAILS, AND HOW SHOULD COMPANIES ADAPT THEIR PRODUCT LINES TO KEEP PACE WITH THESE TRENDS?
Innovative garnishes and presentation styles are essential for elevating the cocktail experience and creating memorable visuals. Companies should focus on versatility and creativity, offering garnishes that not only enhance flavor but also stimulate curiosity and engagement. It’s about making every drink a work of art.
THE DIGITAL TRAIL
We decided to dive into the modern tools and harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to explore how technology, with no human boundary, can help us show and put into context the new world we are imagining with our products, challenging the familiar and reshaping the future of our market.
Follow along with a series of AI-generated interviews to fictional architects, chefs and experts in the field, that will let you explore our new point of view on the world and let us show our ideas through a digital lens.
Together with AI we are exploring the challenges of our vision