Brian Kay, General Director of Bello’ Co

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on Friday, February 25, 2011 12:00 AM

What is the thinking behind the Bello' Co concept?

I wanted to create a venue that is non-specific: a bar, restaurant, cocktail lounge and party venue. Somewhere that people can come at any time of the day and feel comfortable, whether they are having coffee or a fun dinner with friends. I think this is a unique concept in Shanghai.

What first gave you the idea to open a venue that served a mixture of Western and Eastern food?

I remember having dinner with some friends and looking around the table at the variety of foods. I was surprised to see the mixture of Eastern and Western dishes, and seeing them being shared in the Asian way. That gave me the idea to develop a dining experience that does not follow the rigid Western menu format; mixing the order of eating that allows everyone to enjoy a variety of dishes. Spanish-style eating lends itself very well to this concept.

You are well known as a mixologist and nightlife guru in Korea. What is particularly special or unique about the cocktails at Bello' Co?

The cocktails are created in the same way as a chef creates food. I am influenced by the mixture of ingredients used in desserts, for example pear with honey and star anise, or blueberry with tequila and mint. I only use fresh fruit to make the cocktails, which ensures that the flavors are authentic, and we also make our own fruit syrups and liqueurs in house.

Why did you decide to come to Shanghai to develop this latest venture?

China and particularly Shanghai is the place to be right now. It is a place of opportunity, and the restaurant and nightlife scene is really developing at a fast pace, so it's a very exciting time to open a venue here.

What has most impressed or surprised you about Shanghai since you arrived three months ago?

I was really surprised by the density of the city and how big it is. It is very different to Korea, with such diverse people and cultures.

When you're not mixing up a storm at work, what do you do to enjoy Shanghai?

I really like to go out and explore the different restaurants and bars all over the city, getting inspiration from meeting lots of people from all over the world, and getting to know Chinese culture and tastes.