< Previous1819 Cayman takes the cocktail world by storm There is no question that bartenders in Cayman are making waves on the international stage. With local talent placing in competitions overseas, and visiting cocktail afi cionados being dazzled by the wares created in the island’s bars, word is getting out. Cayman has already been dubbed the ‘Culinary Capital of the Caribbean’, and now the collective cocktail community is working to ensure that its industry is given equal recognition. Here are just some of the bars that are taking the art of bartending to the next level. DOOR NO 4 Founder of Door No 4 Simon Crompton needs no introduction – at least not in the cocktail industry. The Englishman with the cheeky grin started bartending more years ago than he cares to admit – experience that no doubt contributed to his award-winning performance in the World Class Bartending Competition Cayman Islands in 2013. This was followed by a brand ambassadorship for Diageo. His knowledge of spirits, coupled with a savvy sense of what makes a bar successful, led to the launch of Door No 4 in April 2022, located in The Grove. Word has got around, and not just in Cayman. Crompton was recently contacted by the very prestigious Tales of the Cocktail Foundation to inform him that his bar is a Top 10 fi nalist in the Best New International Cocktail Bar category for Latin America/Caribbean. Like many others of his peers, Crompton feels that such a nomination doesn’t just raise the profi le of his business – it elevates everyone in the local bartending community. “I try to be a Cayman Islands cocktail ambassador,” Crompton says. “We are aiming to be the cocktail capital of the Caribbean – recognised with other top bars of the world.” He lauds the skills of his bar team, who make drinks “in a simplifi ed, elegant way”. “People like to see the theatre of it,” he adds, emphasising that social aspect of a bar is as important as its cocktails. A smile will keep customers coming back. Favourite cocktail: Palomita Mezcal, tequila, pear eau-de-vie, agave syrup, hopped passion fruit and grapefruit soda Door No 420 NEXT DOOR Wayne Epple, general manager of Next Door – the bar with the speakeasy vibe next to Agua in Camana Bay – is one of the driving forces behind promotion of the local cocktail culture as a whole, rather than individual glory. That being said, he’s certainly not upset about the fact that Next Door was a nalist for the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation Spirit Awards in 2022. This recognition from such an important international body is proof that people are sitting up and taking notice of what Cayman has to offer, and that it can go head-to- head with far bigger countries in the region. The Next Door cocktail menu doesn’t just feature cocktails created by its bartenders – it is a collaboration with experts both locally and abroad submitting recipes. “It creates more of a community,” Epple says. “Come to us, and try cocktails we have created, as well as other bars.” He added that there isn’t the concern of competition, because people will go on a natural tour of such venues to try the different drinks, but will always come back if the product is top-notch. The Next Door menu is updated about every six months, with ingredients changing seasonally to ensure freshness. It is one of the many ways in which the cocktail industry is aligning with the culinary world. “People are starting to realise the importance and art of a well- crafted cocktail,” Epple says. “We aim to show everyone that Cayman deserves to be on that map with the big cities.” Favourite cocktail: Floradora tequila, mezcal, Chambord, peach, ginger ale ANCHOR AND DEN Just inside the Marriott Resort’s main doors, after you take a right at the stunning wall of stingrays, you’ll nd yourself in Anchor & Den – a space known for its special events, live music, excellent brunch and, of course, its curated list of exceptional cocktails. The creation of the cocktail menu was a team effort, with beverages lovingly crafted by A&D’s talented in-house mixologists. The latest iteration, however, has been taken to yet another level, as it was developed in collaboration with World Class Bartending Champion David Rios, who teaches master classes around the world and lectures as a consultant and advisor. Every recipe is carefully designed, even down to the nal result’s speci c look. Next DoorDoor No 4Anchor and Den Door No 4Door No 421 “At A&D, we… understand the signifi cance of glassware in achieving the desired look,” says restaurant and bar manager Martin Dohnal. “Our attention to detail ensures that every cocktail is well-presented. In addition, we support local artists by using their unique glassware.” The cocktail list is updated every 3-6 months, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients mixed with global inspiration. A&D also has its fi nger on the pulse of what’s popular. What’s a top tipple in the market at the moment? Gin, naturally. Look out for the Ginius Friday special, which will showcase the fi nest top-shelf liquors and premium gin and tonic creations. Favourite cocktail: Palomita tequila, raspberry-infused Campari, fresh pink grapefruit juice, agave syrup and pink grapefruit soda V2O CAYMAN One of the latest additions to the Cayman hotspot scene is V2O (Vines to Ocean) located in Regency Court on West Bay Road. People who have heard the buzz might be forgiven for thinking it is a wine-only bar, but in fact it also offers a tempting variety of cocktails for those who would prefer a spirited tipple. These can be paired with charcuterie platters and other delicious nibbles on the menu. Owners Cheryl Pokoradi and Pawan Negi have created a comfortable, cool indoor getaway from the summer heat that includes sparkling Sunday spritzers on special. Sommelier and bartender Elizabeth Flamini favours the classics when it comes to cocktails. “Classics never die,” she says. “They are the original, traditional drinks that people know and love.” V2O carries top shelf brands, and every recipe is mixed with care. “It’s all about balance - that’s what makes a great cocktail,” Flamini adds. So, if you prefer a martini to a Malbec, you’ll defi nitely fi nd what you’re looking for at V2O; and if you’re in the mood for wine, you won’t be disappointed. Favourite cocktail: ‘Killer’ Negroni gin, Campari, Carpano Antica Formula BACKROOM BAR Bartending competitions have become fi erce over the years, and Cayman is no exception. The talent and skills of those wielding the bottles provides visual entertainment for the audiences that cheer them on. Yuleidy Sanchez from Backroom Bar is no stranger to applause, as she is a World Class and Speed Rack winner, revered for her attention to detail and extensive mixology knowledge. Sanchez has been in the business for 15 years, and she designed the Backroom cocktail menu from scratch. “I monitor what people are ordering, what the community is enjoying,” she says, when asked what inspires her to create new recipes. “I like variety, from strengths to fl avours,” she adds, confessing that gin is a favourite ingredient.“It goes well with everything – it’s very refreshing.” She has seen a lot of changes in the local landscape, even in the last few years. “There are now many good bars in Cayman, where you can get a great cocktail,” Sanchez says. As for Backroom, she states that a combination of using fresh ingredients and making homemade infusions and syrups is what makes its drinks so popular. Favourite cocktail: Rhubarbes vodka, fresh strawberries, homemade rhubarb cordial, lemon juice, elder ower liqueur and topped with sparkling wine . V20 CaymanBack RoomHailed as the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is a year-round playground offering an abundance of attractions and adventures. Now, Cayman residents also have year-round nonstop flights to Los Angeles aboard Cayman Airways. From world-famous theme parks, movie studios and landmark Hollywood attractions, to major league sports, outdoor activities and exciting nightlife, there is plenty to see and do in the City of Angels. Cayman Airways introduced nonstop flights to this southern California city late last year, connecting Hollywood directly to the Caribbean for the first time. The weekly roundtrip flights also offer a gateway to family fun and epic sightseeing adventures. STUDIO TOURS A big draw is Universal Studios Hollywood. Its rides and attractions are based on popular films and television shows – such as Jurassic World, Harry Potter and Transformers. While on site, take a tour of its working production studio, included in admission. Classic Hollywood studios Paramount Pictures and Warner Brothers also offer behind-the-scenes tours. CHIC SHOPPING Immortalised by Julia Robert’s shopping spree in “Pretty Woman”, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping district in Beverly Hills. It’s famous for high-end fashions – and the occasional celebrity sighting. The Grove is another popular retail destination, an open-air marketplace that is a hub for shopping under the California sunshine. LOS ANGELES MICKY MOUSE AND MORE Disneyland in Los Angeles is Walt Disney’s first theme park, built in 1955 in Anaheim. While it’s much smaller than Disney World in Orlando, Florida, many visitors find it more manageable to get around – especially those with young children. It’s walkable, less crowded, and offers a more leisurely way to experience “‘The Happiest Place On Earth”. It has two parks: Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, both within walking distance of each other. Those staying at one of its three on-site hotels can walk right to the parks and the Downtown Disney District. HOLLYWOOD ADVENTURES Exploring glamorous Tinseltown is a must-do adventure. Stroll the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame honouring legendary movie stars and celebrities. Be sure to stop at historic movie palace TCL Chinese Theatre along the way. A visit to Griffith Park is another must, home to the iconic Hollywood sign, Los Angeles Zoo and Griffith Observatory – one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. For exciting nightlife, stroll Sunset Strip on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, which boasts such historic clubs as Whisky a Go Go, the Rainbow and the Roxy. CATCH A GAME Baseball fans won’t want to miss catching a game at Dodger Stadium – or other pro teams such as the Lakers, Rams and Kings. DESTINATION: LOS ANGELES DESTINATION: Cayman’s Hollywood connection DINING AND NIGHTLIFE L.A. is renowned as a nightlife destination. From exclusive nightclubs and sultry lounges to rooftop bars with spectacular views, the city offers endless options for the after-dark crowd. West Hollywood, Hollywood, downtown L.A. and Venice are top draws when the sun goes down. It also boasts an innovative food scene – with culinary options covering the spectrum from food trucks to trendy bistros to fine dining. A great place to sample a taste of L.A. is historic Grand Central Market, a food oasis that is a city mainstay. MICKY MOUSE AND MORE Disneyland in Los Angeles is Walt Disney’s first theme park, endless options for the after-dark crowd. West Hollywood, Hollywood, downtown L.A. and Venice are top draws when the sun goes down. It also boasts an innovative food scene – with culinary options covering the spectrum from food trucks to trendy bistros to fine dining. A great place to sample a taste of L.A. is historic Grand Central Market, a food oasis that is a city mainstay.Market, a food oasis that is a city mainstay. GETTING THERE Fly to Los Angeles in under 6 hours aboard one of CAL’s new state-of-the-art Boeing 737-8 jet aircraft. Enjoy FREE Seven Fathoms Rum Punch on board, plus movies, TV Shows, and other options via the innovative Sir Turtle Entertainment platform connected directly to your own device. For details and to book your trip, visit www.caymanairways.com, contact a travel agent, or call (345) 949-2311. STUDIO TOURS Hailed as the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles contact a travel agent, or call (345) 949-2311.Hailed as the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is a year-round playground offering an abundance of attractions and adventures. Now, Cayman residents also have year-round nonstop flights to Los Angeles aboard Cayman Airways. From world-famous theme parks, movie studios and landmark Hollywood attractions, to major league sports, outdoor activities and exciting nightlife, there is plenty to see and do in the City of Angels. Cayman Airways introduced nonstop flights to this southern California city late last year, connecting Hollywood directly to the Caribbean for the first time. The weekly roundtrip flights also offer a gateway to family fun and epic sightseeing adventures. STUDIO TOURS A big draw is Universal Studios Hollywood. Its rides and attractions are based on popular films and television shows – such as Jurassic World, Harry Potter and Transformers. While on site, take a tour of its working production studio, included in admission. Classic Hollywood studios Paramount Pictures and Warner Brothers also offer behind-the-scenes tours. CHIC SHOPPING Immortalised by Julia Robert’s shopping spree in “Pretty Woman”, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping district in Beverly Hills. It’s famous for high-end fashions – and the occasional celebrity sighting. The Grove is another popular retail destination, an open-air marketplace that is a hub for shopping under the California sunshine. LOS ANGELES MICKY MOUSE AND MORE Disneyland in Los Angeles is Walt Disney’s first theme park, built in 1955 in Anaheim. While it’s much smaller than Disney World in Orlando, Florida, many visitors find it more manageable to get around – especially those with young children. It’s walkable, less crowded, and offers a more leisurely way to experience “‘The Happiest Place On Earth”. It has two parks: Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, both within walking distance of each other. Those staying at one of its three on-site hotels can walk right to the parks and the Downtown Disney District. HOLLYWOOD ADVENTURES Exploring glamorous Tinseltown is a must-do adventure. Stroll the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame honouring legendary movie stars and celebrities. Be sure to stop at historic movie palace TCL Chinese Theatre along the way. A visit to Griffith Park is another must, home to the iconic Hollywood sign, Los Angeles Zoo and Griffith Observatory – one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. For exciting nightlife, stroll Sunset Strip on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, which boasts such historic clubs as Whisky a Go Go, the Rainbow and the Roxy. CATCH A GAME Baseball fans won’t want to miss catching a game at Dodger Stadium – or other pro teams such as the Lakers, Rams and Kings. DESTINATION: LOS ANGELES DESTINATION: Cayman’s Hollywood connection DINING AND NIGHTLIFE L.A. is renowned as a nightlife destination. From exclusive nightclubs and sultry lounges to rooftop bars with spectacular views, the city offers endless options for the after-dark crowd. West Hollywood, Hollywood, downtown L.A. and Venice are top draws when the sun goes down. It also boasts an innovative food scene – with culinary options covering the spectrum from food trucks to trendy bistros to fine dining. A great place to sample a taste of L.A. is historic Grand Central Market, a food oasis that is a city mainstay. MICKY MOUSE AND MORE Disneyland in Los Angeles is Walt Disney’s first theme park, endless options for the after-dark crowd. West Hollywood, Hollywood, downtown L.A. and Venice are top draws when the sun goes down. It also boasts an innovative food scene – with culinary options covering the spectrum from food trucks to trendy bistros to fine dining. A great place to sample a taste of L.A. is historic Grand Central Market, a food oasis that is a city mainstay.Market, a food oasis that is a city mainstay. GETTING THERE Fly to Los Angeles in under 6 hours aboard one of CAL’s new state-of-the-art Boeing 737-8 jet aircraft. Enjoy FREE Seven Fathoms Rum Punch on board, plus movies, TV Shows, and other options via the innovative Sir Turtle Entertainment platform connected directly to your own device. For details and to book your trip, visit www.caymanairways.com, contact a travel agent, or call (345) 949-2311. STUDIO TOURS Hailed as the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles contact a travel agent, or call (345) 949-2311.24 Keeping kids busy Whether it’s a normal weekend, or you are trying to fill time over the long summer months, here are some great ideas to keep kids entertained. Adults might want to join in on a few of these, too. CAYCUBS Located in The Grove, this multi-sensory indoor play facility and event space caters for kids aged 0-10. The facility is separated into a baby area for children aged 0-23 months, and a Cub Playtime area for those aged 2-10 years old with climbing, sliding, ball shoots and more. An adjoining cafe serves food and beverages, allowing parents and caregivers to relax while their children play. t: 749-3624 e: hello@caycubs.com w: caycubs.com SPLASH AT SEAFIRE The Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa’s SPLASH water park is open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. to non-guests and guest children 12 years and younger, for $25 per person. The park has numerous water-based features. Access is based on availability, and the water park also hosts buy-out birthday parties. t: 746-000 w: seafireresortandspa.com STARFISH CAY Starfish Cay at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, provides a zero-entry splash pool, a magical cove with interactive water nozzles and sail down gentle water slides. A huge bright bucket suspended above also provides a refreshing waterfall when it upturns. Day passes are available to island residents, providing an opportunity to enjoy the interactive water park with friends and family throughout the year. A day pass is $30 per person (free for children under two), and the water park is open daily from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Birthday packages are also available. t: 815-6120 w: ritzcarlton.com/en/hotelscaribbean/grand- cayman CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE The Turtle Centre is always a great place to spend the day. Wander the grounds learning about turtle conservation and catch feeding time for the turtles, birds, sharks and other predators. Meander nature trails or the Cayman Street, featuring replicas of Cayman-style houses and gardens. Swim with turtles in their lagoon or hit the Turtle Twister Waterslide as many times as you want. Open seven days a week, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m, with last admission at 4 p.m. t: 949-3894 e: info@turtle.ky w: turtle.ky Activities for the youngest members of the family.25 PARROT SANCTUARY At the other end of the island, Cayman Parrot Sanctuary is a great interactive experience for the whole family. The centre rehabilitates parrots for re-release, as well as being a home for numerous animals which you can meet upon visiting. Cayman parrots, snakes, guinea pigs, various reptiles, and agoutis – the most famous of which is Lil Bit. A playground and zipline, as well as access to meals from nearby Tukka, make it a great day trip out. Open Wednesday through Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. t: 936-4400 e: caymanparrotsanctuary@gmail.com w: facebook.com/caymanparrot CAYMAN CRYSTAL CAVES An excellent way to beat the summer heat is to seek refuge in a cool and shaded cave. Take a guided walking tour at Cayman Crystal Caves, with tours running on the hour, every hour, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tours are around 90 minutes, with visitors walking through the surrounding tropical forest and three caves of varying sizes and features. t: 949-2283 e: info@caymancrystalcaves.com w: caymancrystalcaves.com KIDS CLUB AT THE CINEMA Camana Bay Cinema holds Kids Club every week on Saturday at 10 a.m. With brighter lights and softer sound, and playing classic family favourites, this is a great morning activity out of the sun. Tickets are $6 per person, and free for children under 1 who do not occupy a seat. VIP tickets $18 per person. t: 640-3456 e: movies@camanabay.com w: bigscreen.ky/kids-club CAYMAN RIDING SCHOOL PONY RIDES Pony rides are offered every Saturday morning at Cayman Riding School on Hirst Road from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. All ponies are well trained and kid- friendly and there are lots of other farm animals to interact with such as donkeys, goats and chickens. A play area with swing, slides and climbing frames is also on site. No prior experience is necessary and riding helmets are provided. Entry is $5 per person. t: 926-7669 w: caymanridingschool.business.site KAIBO FERRY Pack up a picnic and the kids’ scooters and hitch a ferry ride across the North Sound to Kaibo. The short journey leaves from Camana Bay, and once over the water you can enjoy meals at Kaibo, a wander down the beach to Star sh Point, or a scooter around the quiet roads of Rum Point. Round trip adult prices are $25, while children under 44 inches travel for $15. Download the app for the easiest ticket purchases and schedule access or visit the website. Text or WhatsApp: 325-7777 w: caymanferries.com.ky STRIKE ZONE Head to this laser tag arena in Cannon Place for a high-energy family fun activity. Great for kids aged six and older, although adults will love it too. Teams compete, using their infrared emitter phasers to aim at competitors’ vests, and fostering teamwork, communication and cooperation. Birthday packages and corporate event bookings are available. t: 623-4040 e: reservations@strikezonecayman.com w: strikezonehouseoffun.com KINGS GYM As well as other entertainment amenities, Kings Gym has a bowling alley and climbing wall which are both sure to keep kids and adults entertained for a few hours. King Pin Bowling can host 24 bowlers with its four lanes, and six bowlers, max, per lane. Rock climbing at the facility takes place both inside and outside and costs $5 for kids, $8 for adults, and group rates are available. t: 946-5464 e: kings@candw.ky w: kingssportscentre.com26 MOTIONS UNLIMITED GYMNASTICS While the gym will be closed for the month of July as Motions gymnasts travel to the Inter Island Games, they are re-opening in August and are a perfect place for young kids to burn some energy. Toddler play days, which cater for kids 8 months - 5 years, will take place on Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Kids can run around the gym, enjoying trampolines, balance beams, padded play equipment, zip line and more. Play day visits are $15 per child, and 10 visit packages must be bought online. t: 749-8365: e: reception@motionsunlimited.com w: motionsunlimited.com LIL’ MONKEYS CAYMAN Lil’ Monkeys is an indoor playground and creativity centre. Open Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lil’ Monkeys is your child’s dream spot for fun away from the sun. There is a dedicated play area for babies 6 months to 3 years old plus a jungle gym, climbing structure and creative play area for children 3 to 9. The lounge and café offer fresh coffee, sandwiches, ice cream, fruit smoothies, milkshakes and more. Entry fee is $9 per child per hour and sibling rates are available. Plus, don’t miss BOGO Thursdays where you pay for one hour and play for two. School break camps, birthday packages, monthly membership packages and gift certificates are also available. t: 929-5737 e: lilmonkeyscayman@gmail.com w: facebook.com/lilmonkeyscayman PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS Dotted around Cayman are many public parks to enjoy – some large, with amenities, and some very small with just enough space for a good runaround. Check out an overview of some of these spaces by clicking the QR code here. Harriet Lott SALES AGENT harriet@1503propertygroup.com 345-916-0709 The Cayman Islands, the paradise you call home. Discover true Cayman Kind, contact me today and I’ll lead you home. Move to What Moves YOU! Explore exceptional paintings, majestic Caymanite sculptures, and handcrafted decorative pieces. Experience the essence of the islands in our curated collection. www.pureart.ky • info@pureart.ky 5 Denham Thompson Way & South Church Street Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm Closed Most Sundays & Public Holidays (345) 949.9133 Pure Art Gallery & Gifts offers Cayman’s widest selection of artwork by local artists and artisans 27Next >