CRAFTROOM:
Ryu Fujii's style of craftsmanship is sought after around the world.
- Part 2 -

It is active around the world and is on the verge of joining 'Asia's 50 Best Bars' after only three years in business. The attention and influence from around the world is increasing day by day. What kind of work does Mr Fujii consider to be unique to him? And where is she aiming to go from here?

writer：Akihiko Nishio　撮影：Naohiro Kurashina

With bartenders and bar fans in Hong Kong.

Why do we attract overseas work requests!

'For me, 'World Class' was huge. It's a good competition that has had a great influence on me as an opportunity to learn techniques and ways of thinking, and as a goal for bartenders around the world... It was the cornerstone of my 30s. I just happened to win the Japan competition in 2016, and the relationships I've made with the people I've met at the World Class are something to treasure."

'One of the jobs that only I can do is working abroad. What is required from overseas is quite special. Not only do they ask me to do guest shifts, but they also often ask me to train bartenders when they open a new restaurant.

Overseas, there are few opportunities to systematically learn basic cocktail theory, such as how to combine flavours.

That's why Mr Fujii's coaching is so useful.

There are people who have family relations with him, and others who have come to his parents' house [laughs]. 'This year, I have received requests for three years' worth of coaching, which were stopped by the Corona Disaster, so I will be travelling abroad six times between October and December.

'If I hold an event or seminar, afterwards I am bombarded with questions until the venue's closing time. Everyone is very enthusiastic. Several top bartenders from famous bars have emerged from the seminar students and pupils."

His enthusiasm and hungry greed are greater than that of the Japanese!

Incidentally, while Mr Fujii is on overseas business trips, he also invites guests to CRAFTROOM for very popular events.