Historic Gastown is home to some of Vancouver’s top bars and restaurants. Boneta is one such venue and where we FOUND our featured Bar Star, head bartender and General manager, Simon Kaulback.
Something you may not know is that Boneta Restaurant was named after owner Mark Brand’s mother. A quotation attributed to her is painted on the walls of the back booth, “There are two types of people in the world Mark, those who wait to talk... and those who listen.” “Boneta is a wise woman,” Simon Kaulback states.
You can tell Simon loves where he works. He talks openly about their Gastown location, “In one block there is more character than anywhere else in Vancouver. Everyone here has a story and I know it.” You get a real sense of the community as a local enters with a coffee saying “As promised last night, I’m leaving this for Simon.”
Simon Kaulback didn’t always know he wanted to be a bartender. His early dreams were of becoming a chef, but he began bartending while living in London, England and found it to be his true calling. However, Simon is no stranger to hospitality. The beverage industry has always been a part of his life. His grandfather was a hotelier and Simon fondly recalls childhood summers spent running amok through hotel lobbies.
Talent behind a bar may be in Simon’s blood and it’s no surprise that others have taken notice. He won first place in the 2009 Sortilège Cup Gentleman’s Competition and was most recently voted Bartender of the Year by Vancouver Magazine, 2011. But the new title hasn’t gone to Simon’s head. He retains a laid-back style and an easygoing attitude in his work. Simon mixes drinks effortlessly behind the bar. He says, “It doesn’t matter if I’m pouring you a beer or making you a cocktail, it shouldn’t take more than five minutes to make. I guess I’m old- school like that.”
Simon has taken time from his busy schedule to share three original cocktails and three scotch-inspired beverages with us. Dazzle your friends with these Bartender-of-the-Year creations!
Armada
Buenas Noches
Harlequin
