Eric Van Beek’s journey from bartender to world mixology icon is a narrative of creativity and daring strikes.
From profitable the Bacardi Legacy International title to creating the Bartender’s Handshake, his profession continues to push the boundaries of cocktail tradition.
Van Beek’s profession started in his 20s, and thru his ardour and drive, he rapidly gained prominence within the worldwide bar and cocktail neighborhood. By 2018, he was named the Bacardi Legacy International Winner, and he was additionally lauded in each 2018 and 2019 for operating essentially the most inventive cocktail program within the Netherlands. In late 2019, van Beek made the daring transfer to Mexico Metropolis, the place he opened Brujas, a bar that garnered consideration and was nominated for Finest New Worldwide Cocktail Bar by Tales of the Cocktail. In the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, Van Beek teamed up with Marcos Di Battista and Rodrigo Urraca to open Handshake Bar in April 2021, which rapidly grew to become famend for its progressive cocktail choices and incomes the title of the #1 bar, as ranked by the World’s 50 Finest Bars.
Considered one of Van Beek’s most vital contributions to the world of mixology is the creation of the Bartender’s Handshake.
“The Bartender’s Handshake was initially a discreet sign utilized by business members to determine themselves to the bartender. These days, it has change into a considerably in style menu merchandise in lots of bars and eating places, with every location usually including its personal distinctive twist with an area spirit or beer.”
Not too long ago, Van Beek’s experience was showcased on the Mile Excessive Cocktail Membership, an unique speakeasy that was situated on the forty sixth flooring of the 4 Seasons Resort Chicago. This limited-time pop-up expertise, which was run by means of March 31, 2025, provided a singular and elevated cocktail expertise with breathtaking views of the town. In collaboration with Handshake Speakeasy, the Mile Excessive Cocktail Membership provided a curated menu that included each signature Handshake cocktails and new creations. The cocktails had been rigorously crafted to supply friends with a memorable expertise and showcased uncommon and aged spirits, with choices like “Salt-N-Pepper,” made with Ilegal Mezcal, strawberry, yellow bell pepper, habanero, and salt, and “Tomato is a Fruit,” a cocktail that was distinctive to the Mile Excessive Cocktail membership that includes Gray Goose Vodka, tomato, coconut, strawberry, and citrus.
One of many standout choices on the Mile Excessive Cocktail Membership was the “Handshake’s Handshake,” a playful but refined tackle the basic Chicago Handshake: a pairing of Jeppson’s Malört and beer.
“The Handshake’s Handshake was our playful nod to the legendary Chicago Handshake however with a refined twist. As a substitute of the basic Malört and beer pairing, we crafted a extra elevated but equally thrilling expertise.”
The cocktail featured Bombay Sapphire Gin, grapefruit, Malört, dry vermouth, and grapefruit soda, which led to a refreshing and daring drink that balances the distinctive bitterness of Malört with shiny citrus notes.
For Van Beek, the beverage business is ever evolving, and he goals to remain forward of the traits at Handshake Speakeasy. His forward-thinking strategy continues to push the boundaries of what’s doable on this planet of cocktails.
