Tural Hasanov has honed his craft as a guest mixologist at some of the most renowned bars around the globe. Now he is the Director of Beverage at EDITION in Tampa, channeling his extensive international experience into overseeing the acclaimed bar takeovers at the luxury hotel’s in-house bar, Punch Room. Under his guidance, the Punch Room has become a pivotal player in Florida’s bar scene, offering world-class experiences that inspire both guests and local industry professionals. As Hasanov prepares to serve as a judge at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards, Bartender Business caught up with him to discuss his approach to curating unforgettable bar takeovers, the challenges involved, and his advice for aspiring bartenders.

How do you choose the bars for the bar takeovers at the Tampa Edition? 

We aim to offer world-class experiences that appeal to our hotel guests and industry professionals in the Tampa Bay area, so we select internationally renowned bars that inspire and educate our local community. The bar takeovers provide a unique opportunity for professionals to experience exceptional drinks, engage in meaningful dialogues, and refine their craft. Thus, these collaborations enhance both the guest experience and the growth of Tampa’s bartending community.

Can you share an example of a successful bar takeover you’ve hosted? What made it stand out?

We've hosted many memorable bar takeovers at the Punch Room, but the collaborations with Employees Only, Ian from Dead Rabbit, and Javelle from Death & Co. are particularly unforgettable. These events stood out not only because of the exceptional drinks but also because of the connections, knowledge, and inspiration exchanged between our team and guests.

Image Title: Beverage Director Tural Hasanov with his book Distilled: My Encyclopedia of Beverages

What guidance would you offer a bartender who receives an invitation to work a guest shift?

Having been part of many guest shifts myself across Asia, the Middle East, and now the U.S., I believe the most important thing is to approach it with kindness and professionalism. It is crucial to collaborate with the local team and appreciate their hospitality. Make every effort to contribute positively to the bar’s environment. Ultimately, a guest shift is about sharing your passion and expertise while respecting the team and space you’re working with.

What strategies do you use to promote a bar takeover to ensure a high turnout and strong engagement?

We start our promotion at least a month in advance before the event, posting about the bar takeover on social media platforms. We consistently update our followers about the takeover until the day of the event. We also personally invite friends and industry contacts to build excitement. Another way we get people geared up for the event is by hosting a masterclass or cocktail session before the takeover. It is an effective way to engage both guests and professionals while creating anticipation for the main event.

Also read: Building Buzz For Brands & Bars: Activations And Marketing In The Beverage Industry

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How do you create a unique yet familiar cocktail menu that appeals to both regular guests and new visitors during a bar takeover?

The most important thing is to stay true to the guest bar’s style and philosophy. If the bar is known for a particular approach, that should shine through in the menu. Even if it’s not possible to replicate the exact drinks from their original menu, crafting new cocktails that reflect their essence ensures the experience feels authentic and special for both regulars and new visitors.

What are some common mistakes you’ve seen bars or bartenders make during a takeover, and how can they be avoided?

One common issue is running out of a drink early in the event. While it is tempting to limit prep quantities, it's always better to overestimate than to disappoint guests. Keep menus manageable and design cocktails for quick remaking if necessary to prevent this.

Image Title: Tampa EDITION’s Tural Hasanov

What are the key elements you look for when planning a successful bar takeover?

When planning takeovers at the Punch Room, we focus on the bar’s reputation, its team’s professionalism, and whether it’s a bar we aspire to grow with in some way. We also look for opportunities to collaborate with partner brands or friends in the industry, ensuring the event is meaningful for both parties. Once we have a list of potential bars, Nihat Çam, the Director of Bars at EDITION, and I carefully review it to discuss which would make the most impact for our audience and align with our vision.

What role does staff training play in the success of a bar takeover, and how do you prepare the team for the event?

We are fortunate to have an exceptional team at the Punch Room. They are so professional and passionate about their craft that they often require little preparation beyond understanding the specifics of the event. Their commitment to delivering at the highest standard ensures every takeover is a success.

What are the biggest challenges of organizing a bar takeover, and how do you overcome them?

Logistics, especially sourcing ingredients, is one of the biggest challenges we face when organizing a bar takeover. Some complex recipes often require rare or region-specific ingredients that might not be easily available in the bar. To overcome this, we rely on thorough planning, starting preparations weeks in advance and maintaining clear communication with the team and suppliers. Our purchasing department plays a crucial role by providing detailed ingredient lists two to three weeks in advance, which allows us to find alternatives if necessary. Overall, effective collaboration and communication are essential to meet guest bartender expectations and make each takeover a success.

Also read: Asian Cocktails: A Lasting Trend or a Passing Fad?

You have previously been a guest mixologist at different bars; how has that experience influenced the bar takeovers at Tampa Edition?

Being a guest mixologist taught me the importance of preparation and promotion. At Tampa Edition, we ensure everything is ready well in advance. We also like to host masterclasses or cocktail classes before the takeover, giving attendees a chance to learn about our philosophy and ask questions. These added elements create a more engaging and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Header image by Tural Hasanov

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