Award-winning mixologist Nipichthorn “Francisco” Junkaew from Meliá Chiang Mai is set to headline a special guest shift at Garbo, the cinematic cocktail bar at Meliá Hanoi, as part of the World Cocktail Day celebrations this May.

The two-night event, titled Garbo’s Signatures Reimagined in Chiang Mai Flavors, will take place on May 14 and 15 from 4 PM until midnight. During the takeover, Francisco will present a fresh interpretation of Garbo’s signature cocktails by blending them with distinctive Northern Thai flavours, herbs, spices, and citrus elements inspired by Chiang Mai.

Known for its old-Hollywood-inspired interiors and cocktail menu that pays tribute to iconic films and cinema legends, Garbo has collaborated with Francisco to create three exclusive cocktails for the occasion.

One of the highlights, Black Glamour, draws inspiration from Greta Garbo and the 1936 film Camille. The cocktail combines Johnnie Walker Black Label, cacao-infused Averna Amaro, coffee, and tonka bean tincture, finished with Chiang Mai stout cacao and cava air foam.

Another creation, Call Me By Your Name, inspired by Humphrey Bogart’s role in Casablanca, blends Chiang Mai tea-infused vodka with clarified pomelo juice for a refreshing twist.

The third cocktail, Chiang Mai Confidential, pays tribute to Ginger Rogers in Top Hat and features neem leaf-infused gin, Lillet Blanc, and soda water, delivering a herbaceous and refreshing flavour profile.

To elevate the experience further, each cocktail will be served with a limited-edition coaster inspired by the Hollywood icon and film connected to the drink. Guests can also scan a QR code on the coaster to explore the story behind each creation.

Francisco has gained recognition in the mixology space after winning the Thailand Hotel Bartender’s Championship 2025. He was also named second runner-up at the World Class Thailand 2025 national competition and won the Zacapa “Above the Clouds” Challenge.

With more than eight years of experience in luxury hospitality and mixology, Francisco played an important role in the pre-opening journey of Meliá Chiang Mai before taking charge as the hotel’s beverage manager. He currently leads the beverage program at MAI The Sky Bar, the hotel’s rooftop venue known for its panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the Ping River.

“This guest shift gives me the chance to recast Garbo’s signature cocktails through the flavours and atmosphere of Chiang Mai, with Northern Thai ingredients stepping into the spotlight,” said Francisco. “The drinks still carry that old Hollywood glamour and mystery, but with Northern Thai ingredients playing the leading role.”