The smiling face behind Hy’s Vancouver’s recently unveiled new upstairs bar, Ryan “Shimo” Shimozawa personifies what it means to be a Hy’s guy. His hospitality, professionalism and unbridled passion for the cocktail craft have made him a beloved fixture in this busy hideaway.
“In recent years, there’s been a definite shift back to the classics,” says Ryan.
“It’s neat to see a younger generation choosing to drink Manhattans and Old Fashioneds – to know that, after all these years, people still appreciate a solid, consistent and timeless drink. Cocktail culture has had a resurgence and guests have become more knowledgeable about what they’re drinking.”
More than ever before, guests appreciate mixology as a true craft. They expect interesting flavours, captured in well balanced and beautifully presented cocktails. By always maintaining the highest quality ingredients, alongside freshly prepared in-house syrups and bitters, Hy’s cocktails are elevated to delicious perfection.
Of course Ryan is always concocting new seasonal features to delight guests. His newest “Summer Song” is a refreshing gin sour. It’s infused with bright flavours that evoke warm breezes and trips to the cottage. Tart citrus and refreshing cucumber balanced with Hendricks’s gin and St. Germain Elderflower make it the perfect summer cocktail.
When not inventing delicious concoctions behind the bar, Ryan can be found sourcing unique additions to the extensive Whiskey list, or describing the nuances between the vast selection of vodkas, gins and other spirits that frame his workspace. And having attended the Berklee School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts on a drum scholarship, he’s equally comfortable discussing his love of jazz, or his extensive vinyl collection.
Drop in, have a seat and stay awhile. After all, a stranger at a bar is just a friend you’ve never shared a drink with.
Learn more at hyssteakhouse.com.
