- Name – Devender Kumar
- Instagram – @devendersehgal_
- Favorite Cocktail – Negroni
- Non-Alcoholic Drink – Saicho Sparkling Tea from Hong Kong
Devender Kumar’s journey to becoming a celebrated bartender is a story of resilience, passion, and adaptability. Originally from India, Devender is now based in Hong Kong, where he continues to make waves in the hospitality industry with his creativity and dedication.
His path into bartending was far from conventional. At 14, Devender’s mother encouraged him to learn a trade after noticing he wasn’t excelling academically. In search of a practical skill, he began working as a mechanic. However, after months of moving from one garage to another, he realized that fixing cars did not ignite any passion within him.
Seeking a new direction, Devender turned to his cousin, a freelance bartender, who, along with his cousin’s friend Shekhar, introduced him to the world behind the bar. His first experience came at a large wedding event for 2,000 people, where the high-energy environment of bartending instantly captivated him. The dynamic nature of the job, the interaction with guests, and the fast-paced service made Devender realize he had found his calling.
However, the journey wasn’t easy. Without formal education in hospitality and limited English-speaking skills, Devender faced significant challenges. He worked hard to improve his language skills and honed his craft with the help of supportive mentors who encouraged him at every step. His determination and willingness to learn eventually opened doors to bigger opportunities.
Over the years, Devender has also earned a number of accolades that reflect his commitment to excellence. He began gaining recognition in India with wins like the Bacardi Martini Grand Prix India (2009) and World Class India (2012). After moving to Hong Kong, he continued his winning streak with Bacardi Legacy (2015) and claimed international acclaim by winning the Herno Cocktail Competition in Sweden (2017). Most notably, Devender was ranked 68 in the Bar World, a testament to his influence and standing in the global bartending community.
Devender’s big break in Hong Kong came when he started working at Aubrey, a vibrant cocktail bar launched during the pandemic. At Aubrey, he truly refined his skills and delved deeper into the art of mixology. A significant part of his evolution involved working with Japanese spirits like sake, shochu, and umeshu. Devender became fascinated by the delicate, nuanced flavors these spirits offered, and he believes that Japanese spirits hold tremendous untapped potential in India and global markets. His time at Aubrey allowed him to experiment and innovate, building a unique style that blends authenticity with creativity.
Devender is a strong advocate for the importance of mentorship and building connections in the hospitality industry. He believes that having mentors and a supportive network not only helps one grow professionally but also gives much-needed confidence to pursue dreams.
To aspiring bartenders, Devender offers simple but impactful advice: explore every corner of hospitality—whether in the kitchen, guest services, or behind the bar—and find what truly excites you. He emphasizes the value of perseverance and the importance of finding mentors who can guide and inspire.
Looking ahead, Devender’s vision is to continue promoting Japanese spirits, educate people about them and contribute to the evolution of modern bartending. He is also involved in consulting projects, aiming to share his knowledge and expand his impact on the industry.
Devender Kumar’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to change paths. From a mechanic to a celebrated bartender in Hong Kong, his journey showcases how passion, resilience, and the willingness to embrace change can lead to extraordinary success.
