Simone Rossi brings innovative and energetic approach to his position as director of bars for Rosewood Hong Kong where he oversees bar programmes for the flagship hotel’s nine outlets, including the DarkSide destination for premium aged dark spirits.

A native of Grosseto, Italy, Rossi grew up in a big, boisterous family and his warm personality and love of get-togethers around food compelled him to pursue a hospitality career. In his studies, he found his calling in bartending because it allowed him to create a welcoming environment for guests and exercise his creative abilities.

After school, Rossi moved to London in 2012 and joined the eclectic, Caribbean-influenced Veranda where he learned the principles of classic and tiki-style cocktails. He then worked at members-only Quo Vadis, a SoHo institution, and began developing his elegant yet experimental style.Rossi next joined Aqua Spirit, a celebrated rooftop bar, and quickly progressed from bar supervisor to assistant bar manager responsible for creating new cocktails and overseeing the drinks list. During his tenure, he was crowned winner of the highly regarded Disaronno Mixing Star competition in 2015. Aqua Restaurant Group then tapped him as bar manager for its Hong Kong property so he relocated to helm the stylish restaurant in Tsim Sha Tsui. He earned the prestigious World Class Country Winner title in 2018 representing Hong Kong and Macau in a Berlin competition amongst the top international bartending talent.

He then joined the opening team of DarkSide at Rosewood Hong Kong in 2018. As the bar manager of the sophisticated bar that showcases rare aged spirits, vintage cigars and confident classic cocktails, Rossi welcomes all guests with his warm smile and Italian hospitality.

About Darkside‍

DarkSide is a cocktail parlour that offers rare aged spirits, vintage cigars and classic cocktails complemented by sultry live jazz. In addition to an extensive library of fine rum, whisky and calvados, its dark spirits selection harks back to the early 19th century and includes an exclusive blend of cognac created by the award-winning bar team. The cocktail list pays homage to Kowloon’s “dark side” moniker and focuses on time-honored traditions updated with innovative techniques.