Introducing Lora Bozanic, who as Bar Lead, looks after all things drinks at BABA.
First things first, tell us a bit about you…
I’m from Zadar in Croatia, which is a small city on the coast that has a heavy Italian influence in its architecture and customs. The tourism industry is incredibly valuable to our city, so hospitality has always been a big part of my life.
And what’s your role?
I’ve been with the hotel for four years, but have recently been promoted to Bar Lead. My role basically consists of managing the bar and team. I look after the daily running of the department as well as overseeing in-house training and development. I also write the cocktail and drinks lists, regularly looking at new ideas and techniques that reflect the ethos of the brand, developing drinks and training our team to make them.
What do you love about hospitality?
I love travelling around the world – everyone needs bartenders! Experimenting with new techniques and ingredients to create drinks is actually my favourite thing about my job. I also really enjoy the variety of experiences it exposes you to: different industries, suppliers, and people you get to meet.
What’s the proudest moment of your career so far?
Vivian Westwood coming to visit BABA and personally complimenting me on the cocktail she had, as well as my style!
What’s your favourite things from the BABA menu?
My newest creation, the Coffee Negroni. A Negroni, in my opinion, is the best cocktail, and this one has a coffee vermouth twist.
Quick-fire question time!
Three words you think your teammates would use to describe you
Passionate, creative, dedicated
Do you have any hidden talents?
A few! I have photography business with my partner, I’ve been training in martial arts for two years, and I love coding.
If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?
VFX artistry
Tell us a fun fact about you
I have two rabbits – one is called Guza (which is ‘bum’ in Croatian!).
What would be the theme song to your life?
The Great Pretender by The Platters
What’s your favourite quote?
Perfection is terrible, it cannot have children (Sylvia Plath)