The mixology scene witnessed something truly special this year as the Live Naked Bar Swap, an annual celebration of cocktail creativity, marked its first-ever event in Hungary. Amidst this prestigious competition, Hotsy Totsy's very own Noah and Zsombor not only competed but secured an impressive third place, showcasing their extraordinary talent and our bar's commitment to cocktail excellence.

A Cocktail That Flips Expectations

Before the finals, we teased a creation that promised to turn perceptions "upside down". "Naked & Strange", the brainchild of Noah and Zsombor, became the talk of the town. Inspired by their fondness for the hit series Stranger Things—or perhaps their quirky way of enjoying the show—the drink is a masterful blend of creativity and craftsmanship, with Naked Malt whisky at its core. The name alone sparked intrigue and debate, but it's the taste that truly captivates, embodying the spirit of adventure that defines Hotsy Totsy.

From Vision to Victory

The Live Naked Bar Swap challenged Hungary's top bartending talents to not only present an original cocktail but to adapt and innovate under the spotlight. Noah and Zsombor, representing Hotsy Totsy, rose to the occasion, advancing through to the finals with their inventive "Naked & Strange".

In the ultimate showdown at Mitico Budapest, they crafted their Naked Sour cocktail variation, then faced the Mystery Box challenge—creating a new recipe on the spot with unknown ingredients within 4 minutes. Their ability to think quickly and creatively showcased why they're among the best in the business.

Celebrating Our Achievements and Looking Ahead

Securing third place in such a competitive field is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. While the prize for the winning bar—a Bar Swap opportunity in 2025—promises new horizons and knowledge exchange, Noah and Zsombor's achievement has already brought new inspirations to our bar.

We invite you to join us at Hotsy Totsy to toast to their success and experience the cocktails that wowed the judges. Let's celebrate the artistry and imagination that Noah and Zsombor brought to the "Naked & Strange" and look forward to the future adventures that await in the world of cocktails.

Follow @budapestcocktailweek on Instagram for more updates and to relive the excitement of the competition. Cheers to embracing the #LiveNaked perspective and celebrating the extraordinary talents of Hungary's bartending community.

Join us at Hotsy Totsy, where innovation meets tradition in every sip.