Thursday, September 27, 2012

Las Vegas' Golden Gate Bartender to represent US at Flairtending Challenge!


Golden Gate Hotel & Casino’s flair bartender Eric Parker will leave his usual post at the hotel’s popular Flair Bar on the Fremont Street Experience October 4 – 10 to represent the United States at the International Bar Association (IBA) Flairtending Challenge in Beijing.

Parker will compete against the world’s best flair bartenders from 52 countries around world. The competition requires top-notch skills in mixology and flair with both categories weighted equally. Parker will have five minutes to shake, throw and flip three identical cocktails in front of a panel of judges and only a flawless routine will give him hopes of advancing to the final round.

For the competition, Parker has created the “Pearfect Sunset” cocktail. Patrons can stop by Flair Bar just outside the Golden Gate, Las Vegas’ original hotel and casino,  to watch him fit in some last minute prep and enjoy this tasty libation made with Grey Goose Poire (pear), Cointreau Orange Liqueur, Monin Strawberry, fresh lemon juice, mint leaves and a lot of enthusiasm.

Parker became interested in flair seven years ago while bartending at Chili’s where he was taught a couple of basic moves. With no formal training, he learned from online videos and spent several hours a day practicing in his garage. He has competed in nearly 50 competitions mostly organized but the Flair Bartenders Association (FBA). In 2009, he was named tour champion in the FBA's advanced division and in 2011 was named Pro Tour Champion. He has also qualified for the finals at several world flair competitions. Parker said that the upcoming competition will be the hardest one yet.

About Golden Gate Hotel & Casino
 What Happens in Vegas started at the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino.  Opened in 1906 as the Nevada Hotel, the historic property, situated at One Fremont Street, is where Las Vegas started. Welcoming visitors to downtown Las Vegas and the world famous Fremont Street, the Golden Gate is the original Las Vegas experience.  Featuring 106 recently remodeled rooms that blend historic authenticity with modern amenities, the property combines vintage Vegas with a high-energy gaming scene. The Golden Gate recently completed its first major expansion in 50 years, adding a 35,000-square-foot luxury tower with 16 suites, new porte cochere and valet, extended gaming floor with a high-limit pit featuring its signature dancing dealers, and a new lobby displaying artifacts from its historical past. The Golden Gate is committed to preserving its history and the authentic Vegas vibe. Staying true to its roots, the contemporary look draws inspiration from its colorful past which spans the roaring 20s, Prohibition, Rat Pack era and now the 21st century.

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