1 of 1 2 of 1 Straight, No Chaser looks to Vancouver’s talented mixologists for stories from behind the stick. We find out how they create, what they love, where their favourite bar is, and what they grew up watching their parents drink. Who are you I’m Amar Gill, beverage director of Banda Volpi Hospitality (Osteria Elio Volpe, Osteria Savio Volpe, Pepino’s Spaghetti House, and Caffè La Tana).
I was born in Calgary and moved to Singapore, where my family is from, at the age of two. I was introduced to the restaurant industry early on, as my parents and grandparents both owned restaurants, which instilled a deep love for food, beverage, and hospitality in me at a young age. In my spare time, I enjoy boxing and spending quality time with my partner and 10-year-old golden retriever, Pinot.
My parents mixed My parents were not the most adventurous drinkers, but loved what they loved and stuck with it for years like a routine. They drank oaked chardonnay, Australian shiraz, gin and tonics, and occasionally enjoyed a single malt Scotch whisky on the rocks with a side of club soda. I learned from my parents that the drink itself was not as important as the company you are enjoying it with and the experience.
The creative process I love using classic cocktails as a guide towards creating a new cocktail. Classics assist tremendously with understanding ingredients, balance of flavours ,and pour measurements. They have stood the test of time for a reason.
I love showcasing clas.