On the evening of 19 February 2025, we had the distinct pleasure of welcoming the exceptional team from Becher’s Bar at Grandhotel Pupp, Karlovy Vary, for a dazzling guest shift at Blue Fox The Bar. Known for its rich history, refined atmosphere and pioneering mixology, Becher’s Bar delivered an evening filled with unforgettable flavours, emotions and storytelling in the heart of Budapest.
Legacy of Excellence
Becher’s Bar, long celebrated as the crown jewel of Grandhotel Pupp, is where tradition seamlessly meets innovation. Inspired by classic English gentlemen’s clubs, the bar has become a landmark, not only for its cinematic connection to the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival but also for pushing the boundaries of cocktail craft for over 25 years.
Under the visionary leadership of Vítězslav Cirok and the creative talents of Patrik Škamla, Becher’s Bar underwent a significant transformation in 2021, emerging with a renewed focus on creativity and modern elegance. Their current menu, ‘MY FIRST’, explores the emotional power of memory and storytelling – with each cocktail paying tribute to a universal life milestone.
This deep commitment to narrative-driven mixology earned Becher’s Bar three prestigious accolades at the 2024 Community Bar Awards:
• Best Cocktail Bar
• Best Bar Team
• Best Menu
Spotlight on the Creators
Vítězslav Cirok, Bar & Beverage Manager, brings over 19 years of experience and a meticulous eye for detail. Twice crowned national champion in the Diageo Reserve World Class competition and a top-three global finalist, Vítězslav is celebrated for his minimalist elegance and sophisticated layering of flavours. Beyond Becher’s Bar, he is also the mastermind behind The Splendid Bar, an exclusive speakeasy nestled in the heart of Pupp.
Patrik Škamla, Head Bartender at Becher’s, is a rising talent in the international bartending scene. From his early beginnings in Piešťany, Slovakia, to becoming the creative force behind Becher’s award-winning team, Patrik’s journey is defined by discipline, innovation and a profound respect for the craft. His leadership continues to shape the success of the ‘MY FIRST’ menu.
Exclusive Cocktails at the Guest Shift
During the highly anticipated guest shift at Blue Fox The Bar, Vítězslav and Patrik captivated guests with a curated selection from their ‘MY FIRST’ menu, each cocktail designed to evoke a powerful emotional milestone:
• First Perfume – A fusion of Never Never Triple Juniper gin, jasmine, vetiver, vanilla, quince and tonic.
• First Jewel – A mix of Altamura vodka, kaffir lime, green apple, gooseberry and champagne.
• First Friendship – A joyful blend of Mijenta Blanco tequila, guava, yellow melon, yerba maté and cardamom.
• First Camping – A combination of Stauning Rye whisky, pine cones, enoki mushrooms and birch water.
Each cocktail was not only a delight to the senses but also a journey through shared human experiences – the very essence of Becher’s philosophy.
Guest Shift in Pictures
The night was one to remember – filled with inspired creations, heartfelt conversations and a vibrant gathering of cocktail enthusiasts. For those who could not attend, stay tuned as we share highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from this unforgettable collaboration.
Let’s raise a glass to the memories we’ve made – and those still to come. Stay tuned for future events and bar takeovers!
The guest shift was organised in collaboration with Collective Warehouse.
