Kathmandu:

A clear evening, well decorated bar next to the pool, good music, attractive laser lights made the setting just perfect for a drink or two. The evening of March 9 was right for the second annual bartender flairing competition at the Liquid Lounge.

The competition apart, the main attraction of the evening was Hong Kong’s Agung, who has been a cha-mpion Asian bartender four times. And the way he shook, rattled and flaired his drinks, it was no wonder why.

The event, though with a number of hiccups (competing bartenders acts gone awry, spilled drinks), was interesting as the participants showed off their flairing (the way bartenders juggle) skills while the guests cheered them on. In the three-stage competition the bartenders were judged on showmanship, flairings and the cocktails prepared.

Though a little nervous with cameras poking into their noses and their drinks, the bartenders of course managed to entertain the crowd with their efforts and a number of misses.

The event also supported a social cause. A number of cocktails prepared were auctioned and the funds generated (Rs 31,138 in total) was donated to the Cancer Unit, Kanti hospital. Agung’s drink fetched a hefty bid of Rs 6,100, while the four-level tequila fountain called Kamakazi raked in Rs 4,100.

With perfect catches and smooth flairings, Yuvraj Pun from F & B bar walked home with the first prize (Rs 20,000, while Raj Kumar DC wone the second prize (Rs 10,000) and MB Magar of Buddha Bar won the third prize (Rs 5000).

The event was managed by MCE (Music culture entertainment) from Hong Kong.