Tokyo’s Virtù has been named the winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award as part of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024. The award is voted for by Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ 265-member Academy, who were each asked to name the one institution that has provided the best hospitality experience in the last 18 months.
This is the first in a series of special awards to be unveiled in the weeks leading up to the ceremony itself, on 16 July 2024. The ninth edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, will be announced at a live awards ceremony in Hong Kong, hosted in collaboration with destination partner Hong Kong Tourism Board. This marks the second consecutive year that the awards and its surrounding event programme will be held in the city.
Virtù, which opened its doors in 2020, made an impressive debut on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 list, securing the No.20 spot and winning the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award for that year. Now a well-known fixture in Tokyo’s bar landscape, Virtù boasts art deco interiors adorned with Parisian-style gilded ornaments and offers spectacular views of the city skyline. Guests can expect premium Japanese whisky paired with French vermouth and chartreuse, in an ultra-luxe hotel bar, complete with 16-seater communal tables and a bar team that may even break into a jig as the night progresses. The element of fun and flair in every aspect of their service makes Virtù a worthy recipient of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2024.
Leading the bar team is Keith Motsi, an international bar veteran who most recently headed operations at Charles H at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. He was also a recipient of the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender award as part of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022. Behind him is a talented team, including Assistant Bar Manager McHayla Killoran, and Senior Bartender Graham Kimura, both of whom bring charismatic hospitality and a meticulous eye for detail to the Virtù experience.
Emma Sleight, Head of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, says: “In a city of quaint bars and understated interiors, Virtù stands out as a stylish drinkery with a world-class menu of stellar cocktails. An essential destination on Tokyo’s cocktail circuit, it sets the tone for an unparalleled drinking experience with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing a breathtaking 39th-floor view of the city. Despite the predominance of style, the bar maintains a convivial atmosphere with service that goes above and beyond and is imbued with both thoughtfulness and entertainment. Congratulations to the entire Virtù team for this thoroughly deserved achievement.”
Upon receiving the award, Keith Motsi, Head Bartender and Beverage Operations at Virtù says: “We are incredibly honoured to receive the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2024. For us, the deep-rooted Japanese cultural practice of omotenashi, which means wholeheartedly looking after a guest, epitomises hospitality. We strive to seamlessly blend teamwork with individual authenticity and this award is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and warm spirit of the entire team. We are committed to personalising each guest’s experience with elegance, finesse, and flair, ensuring a unique journey where life is celebrated with every moment.”
