The Hard Rock Cafe Seattle really got into the competitive spirit by showcasing talented bartenders in the fourth annual Global BARocker Competition. The event, hosted by 100.7 The Wolf’s Ellen Tailor and Happy Hour Radio’s Sommelier Christopher Chan, took place November 10th and was the first round of this global competition.

Event goers were able to purchase food and drinks as they watched the event take place. The pepperoni flatbread pizza was amazing, leaving you wanting more of the cheesy masterpiece. The chicken tenders were average at best, but when liberally dipped in the delicious BBQ and honey mustard sauce, managed to pull through and really hit the spot. Popular drinks of the night included Purple Haze, Bahama Mama, and Vodka Redbull with a splash of pineapple juice.

The showcase featured the cafe’s most talented bartenders who were judged by a panel of industry experts. The competitors were judged on recipe and bar knowledge, accuracy, speed, flair and showmanship. There were fifteen contestants who battled it out for the title of champion. Each Rocker had their own unique routine filled with various flips and tricks, demonstrating both agility and flair while drink mixing.

The atmosphere was upbeat and the crowd was energetic. The winner was a Seattle’s own Hard Rock bartender, Dan Good. Dan has been bartending for fifteen years and this was his first competition. When asked why he loves bartending, he answered “I’ve always been in customer service, I have a way with customers so bartending just came natural. Add the artist part of creating cocktails and you got your answer, what could be more fun!”. He shared that he has loved getting to meet other people from around the globe who also have a passion for bartending.

Dan will be moving forward to compete against other bartenders from around the world for a chance to compete in the final BARocker showdown at Hard Rock’s annual Global Conference in Panama City this January.

Check out Jane’s full album of the event on our Facebook page.