Jonathan Bornand was the hit of our Midsummer Party back in June as he poured drinks from the bar of his bright orange mini-bus, Clementine. Never without a smile, Jonathan embraces the theatrical aspect of bartending through storytelling and generosity, elevating his bar catering service from a simple drink-serving operation to an unforgettable moment.
Jonathan Bornand is shaking up the scene with his curious approach to mixology and bar catering. As the founder of Bornand Liquors & Co., Jonathan has carved out a unique niche in the local hospitality industry, bringing a touch of creativity and nature-inspired craftsmanship to events across the region.
Jonathan's journey into the world of cocktails and spirits is as intriguing as the concoctions he creates. Growing up near the forests of Lausanne, he developed a deep connection with nature from an early age playing in the woods as a child. This connection, though temporarily set aside during his studies at Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL), would later become a cornerstone of his mixology philosophy.
After honing his skills in high-end establishments around the world, including a formative period in Amsterdam where he delved into craft cocktails and house-made ingredients, Jonathan returned to Lausanne with a vision. He sought to merge his newfound expertise in mixology with his childhood love for nature, creating a holistic approach to cocktail crafting that melds local, natural ingredients. Jonathan's meticulous attention to detail in building his mobile bar and presenting his cocktails fits seamlessly into this theatrical vision. His carefully curated setups serve as the set design, creating a visually captivating backdrop for the "performance" of cocktail creation and service.
Bornand Liquors & Co. specializes in bar catering, a concept that Jonathan noticed was underrepresented in Switzerland. His service goes beyond simply pouring drinks; it's about creating an experience. "The bar is often the centerpiece of an event," Jonathan explains. "It's where conversations start, where the atmosphere is set. We're not just providing drinks; we are crafting an essential part of the event's ambiance." Jonathan is offering more than just drinks – he's providing an immersive experience.
What sets Jonathan apart is his dedication to homemade ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Drawing inspiration from the local landscapes surrounding Lausanne, he infuses spirits with local botanicals, crafts his own syrups, and experiments with unexpected flavor pairings. This commitment to quality and innovation has quickly made Bornand Liquors & Co. a sought-after name for events in Lausanne and beyond.
By embracing the theatrical aspect of bartending, approaching his craft with generosity, and leveraging the power of storytelling, Jonathan Bornand elevates his bar catering service from a simple drink-serving operation to an immersive, unforgettable experience.
Jonathan's creations are not just about taste; they're a visual spectacle as well. Each cocktail is meticulously presented, often garnished with edible flowers or served in custom glassware, turning every drink into a work of art. This attention to detail extends to the mobile bars he sets up at events, which are designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, adding to the overall ambiance of any gathering.
As Lausanne continues to evolve as a hub for gastronomy and hospitality, Jonathan Bornand stands at the forefront of its cocktail revolution. His passion for craftsmanship, commitment to local ingredients, and innovative approach to bar catering are not just elevating the city's drinking culture – they're redefining what it means to enjoy a cocktail in Lausanne.
For those looking to experience Jonathan's creations, Bornand Liquors & Co. offers bar catering services for private events, corporate functions, and weddings throughout both Lausanne and extending into the French-speaking region of Switzerland. Additionally, cocktail enthusiasts can follow the company's social media channels for a behind-the-scenes look at Jonathan's latest creations and upcoming pop-up events around the city.
In a world where mass-produced spirits often dominate, Jonathan Bornand's artisanal approach serves as a refreshing reminder of the magic that can happen when nature, creativity, and hospitality come together in perfect harmony. As Lausanne's cocktail scene continues to flourish, one thing is certain: Jonathan Bornand and Bornand Liquors & Co. will be at the heart of it, shaking up the status quo one expertly crafted drink at a time.
All photos are from @exploremarco
