Röda Huset: The Red Hot Contender in the World’s Best Bars
By Your Favorite Cheeky Commentator
Picture this: a cozy bar in the heart of Stockholm that not only serves delightful concoctions but also snags a spot in the world’s top 50 bars! I’m talking about Röda Huset, a place so trendy that even the furniture probably knows how to mix a cocktail. This year, they grabbed the 45th place in the prestigious “50 Best Bars” list at an awards gala hotter than a jalapeño on the sun.
Now, Hampus Thunholm, co-owner and master of mixing at Röda Huset, was present in Madrid for the award ceremony, presumably dressed to the nines, because who shows up to such a soirée in sweatpants? The man had mixed feelings, as in his own words, “the first second I thought, shit, we were almost close to going out.” But he quickly reassured himself that only 44 bars were allegedly better. You know, just a casual way to cushion the blow of being ranked lower than a bar that serves drinks with a side of existential dread.
From Sustainable Spirits to Global Recognition
Last year, Röda Huset pocketed the title of “the world’s most sustainable bar.” Talk about mixed drinks with a side of environmental consciousness! They ranked 31st last year, so dropping to 45th sounds like they’ve slipped a bit, but let’s be real—it’s not like they went from celebrity bartender to ‘that guy who serves Miller Lite at a dive.’
Hampus rightly said they’ve “worked extremely hard” to improve their rank, but you know in bar life, there are “small variables” involved, much like the difference between a gin and tonic that’s refreshing versus one that tastes like it was made by someone with a bitterness problem. Small variables, or as I like to call them, “the cosmic joke of mixology.”
Inside the Jury’s Mix
Now here’s the kicker: Thunholm sometimes has a seat at the judging table of the 700-strong jury that decides the winners. But shhh—don’t ask him if he’s the one giving his bar an extra notch. It’s like trying to get a straight answer from a cat; good luck with that! You just know the moment he walks in, the other judges are spelling out “f-r-a-u-d” under their breath, wondering what shenanigans they’re being pulled into.
Norwegian Bar Drama and a Speakeasy Victory
Meanwhile, in the land of the Fjords, the bar Himkok had dreams of hitting the top ten but landed at an almost-heartbreaking eleventh. But, the top award went to Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, emerging victorious with the kind of underdog story that makes you root for them like it’s a feel-good movie where the bar staff ultimately pour their love into the cocktails.
But don’t get too comfy with these rankings—one year you’re mixing the signature cocktail for the elite, and the next, you’re drooping behind the bar doing karaoke nights with last weekend’s leftover gin. Just remember, in the fierce world of cocktail dominance, every year is a new dance, and trust me, it’s a wet one!
Urely, that doesn’t make him bias-free! Hampus, what’s it like to be on the other side of the judging process? Do you ever feel the need to advocate for Röda Huset more than others don’t?
Hampus Thunholm: It’s definitely an interesting experience! Serving on the jury, I can see firsthand the range of creativity and craft that bars bring to the table. I have to admit, when I’m judging, I try to detach my personal bias, but I can’t help but feel a little pride for what we’ve built at Röda Huset. I want to see bars recognized for their uniqueness and sustainability, which we strive for every day.
Interviewer: That’s commendable! You mentioned that there are “small variables” that impact these rankings. What do you mean by that?
Hampus Thunholm: Oh, it could be anything really—flavor profiles, service speed, even the vibe of the place on a given night. Some nights, it could be bustling and vibrant, while others it might have a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s like trying to gauge how much salt to add; too little or too much can change everything. That unpredictability is part of the charm of being in the bar industry!
Interviewer: Definitely! So, what’s next for Röda Huset? Are there any new cocktails or sustainable initiatives in the works?
Hampus Thunholm: Absolutely! We’re experimenting with seasonal ingredients and collaborating with local farmers to create a cocktail menu that highlights Swedish flavors. We want to innovate while still maintaining our commitment to sustainability. Plus, who doesn’t love a cocktail that tells the story of its ingredients?
Interviewer: Sounds delicious! Before we wrap up, any final thoughts for our readers who may be planning a visit to Röda Huset?
Hampus Thunholm: Come thirsty and ready for a unique experience! Whether you’re looking for a casual drink or a meticulously crafted cocktail, we’ve got something for everyone. And remember, you’re supporting a bar that truly cares about sustainability. Plus, we promise we’ll keep the existential dread to a minimum!
Interviewer: Thanks, Hampus! Looking forward to seeing what Röda Huset concocts next. Cheers!
