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What you can learn about building a business from a cocktail bar that became top 50 in the world
In the vaunted world of cocktail bars, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd, even when you have the best mixologists, sexiest design, or the yummiest menu. Many a bar investor and bar manager have spent hours and money agonizing over the small details of their bar, only to see their investment go down the drain when customers don’t go.
My favorite bar in Hong Kong, Mostly Harmless, has bucked that trend, and has won #33 on World’s Best bar in Asia in just a little over a year despite a less than ideal start (Covid!) I believe that by analyzing their trajectory, one can see business lessons there applicable to any startup or business. My conclusions and insights come from what I learned from the countless hours (and cocktails!) I have experienced, me getting to know Ezra Star, the owner, and my Down Lo Show Youtube interview with her.
One of the key things that Mostly Harmless does well is their brand focus. They are committed to using locally sourced ingredients and creating a “farm-to-table” experience for their customers. This ethos is evident in their ever-changing menu of four to five drinks that are based on the seasonal produce available at local markets and farms. By focusing on this, they have created a loyal customer base who appreciate the effort they put into sourcing high-quality, local ingredients.
Second — and probably most imporantly — it’s not just about the drinks at Mostly Harmless. They have also put a lot of thought into creating a unique environment for their customers. The bar is located in a small converted kitchen, and they have made sure that everything from the music to the seating fits with this aesthetic. The white tiles provide the perfect canvas for customers to write their names or play hangman with the pens provided, while the standing room only area maximizes the use of the limited space available. They personalize each and every receipt, like the one below.
But why is creating a unique customer experience so important? In today’s world, customers have more choices than ever before, and they are more discerning about where they spend their money. People want to feel like they are getting something special when they go out, and they are willing…
