Gig Guide
Invercargill mixologist Santana Kawe has spent over a decade smashing stereotypes when it comes to cocktails. In fact, he’s not a big fan of that word.
“People hear cocktail and automatically think of an umbrella and juice in a glass when it’s far from that,” Kawe said.
“In reality handcrafted drink cuisine is probably a more apt description.”
With an impressive resume of national and international awards to his credit, Kawe is undoubtedly an authority on the topic.
“There is so much history behind the liqueurs and where they come from,” he said.
“Most drinks that I do make, I can tell you a story behind every liqueur I pull off the shelf. It’s about sharing an experience and quality banter with your guests as you create their drink.”
Recently appointed to the helm of ILT’s Lone Star, his extensive hospitality knowledge has proved vital in transforming the bar area of the establishment, now officially dubbed “The Loney”, along with an exclusive new event area.
“I’m always excited about hospitality progressing in general. Now we have the chance to showcase some handcrafted and unique creations in a funky space with a great vibe.
“My hardest task is to change the perception of the Lone Star but I’m up for the challenge. There’s no excuse for Invercargill anymore because this city is going to be a cool place and we need to evolve the way we socialise to keep up with the new trends being set.”
The freedom to experiment with drink creations appealed to Kawe and inspiration was often spontaneous.
“It’s one of those spur of the moment things and you decide to pick up some liquid nitrogen on the way to work and get creative. If you happen to be dining that night, chances are you will stumble across some random drink creations. And people seem to love that, they really do.”
Testament to his passion, Kawe has created ‘The Black List’ exclusive drinks menu and even handcrafts his own ice in an array of designs.
“Cocktails can be quite intricate – I light things on fire, some are smoked, all sorts of crazy stuff. It captures the craft and the culture of hospitality,” he said.
“A lot of what I’ve learned is tradition from other cultures. Tequila in Mexico, Jamaica with rum. I like to learn the way they drink and what their traditions are. You have to respect the way these drinks are used authentically.”
The annual “Loney Jump Off” street party will be staged on 18 December, featuring an impressive line-up of local musicians and DJs.
“We’re grateful for the support of our community who have chosen to shop locally over 2020 and in turn, this is another great opportunity for us to back homegrown talent,” ILT marketing and sales manager Angee Shand said.
“We’ll also be unveiling our new area with an edgy urban aesthetic which is an ideal platform for the city’s DJs to drop some mixes.
“This edition of the street party truly is a community collaboration with some fantastic vendors from the Southern Farmers Market invited along to provide sustenance for partygoers.”