Alejandro Archibald
Bar Manager, Yugen Dining
Alejandro Archibald brings a dynamic and worldly perspective to his role as Bar Manager at Yugen Dining in South Yarra, with a cocktail philosophy that is deeply rooted in seasonality, sustainability, and storytelling.
With creativity matched by technical expertise, Alejandro often borrows from the culinary world in his cocktail making with methods like fermentation, sous vide, and force carbonation. A self-proclaimed “agave spirit guy,” he is passionate about working with unique, sustainably produced spirits, showcasing them in unexpected ways. His signature creations available at Yugen Dining include:
- Taiyaki Milk Punch – Monkey Shoulder Scotch Clarified, Azuki Bean, Shokupan & Vanilla Milk, Shoyu, Honey, Lemon
- Pandan Cooler – a refreshing blend of pandan, honeydew melon, Plantation 3-Star rum, Lillet Blanc
- Arthouse Erotica – a sultry combination of passionfruit marigold, tonka bean, citrus, verjuice, Haku Vodka, sparkling wine
With over 15 years of experience, Alejandro’s journey has taken him from his native Belize to Brisbane, working at notable venues like Kerbside and The Walrus Club before a move to Melbourne in 2016 saw him work at hotspots such as Beneath Driver Lane and Nomad. In 2021 he left to co-found and open his first venue, Maggie’s Snack’s & Liquor before stepping away in July and joining the Yugen team in August of 2024.
Alejandro’s drinks experience also saw him become the Australian Brand Ambassador for Patrón Tequila in 2018, where he travelled Australia and abroad training bartenders, hosting events and overseeing the Australian segment of the annual Patrón Perfectionists global competition.
Beyond crafting drinks, Alejandro is a mentor to his team, guiding them to perfect their skills and deliver exceptional guest experiences. He believes in creating a welcoming and adaptable atmosphere, ensuring customers are treated like guests in his home.
Outside of the bar, Alejandro is an avid wine enthusiast, holding a WSET Level 3 Award. He enjoys exploring the journey from grape to glass, often drawing parallels between wine and cocktails in his creations. When he’s not experimenting with new ingredients, Alejandro can be found playing guitar, cooking, or enjoying a good martini, margarita, or Manhattan.
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Hi-res imagery: via Google Drive
About Yugen Dining
605 Chapel St, South Yarra
Arriving on the Melbourne dining scene with a bang at the end of 2022, award winning Yugen Dining is located in the heart of South Yarra, on the bustling corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road. The restaurant's hidden subterranean location opens up to reveal an exquisite, two-level multi-faceted drinking and dining experience - the space comprises an 85-seat restaurant, sweeping bar, private dining spaces, specialised six-seat Omakase bar, and a VIP dining Golden Orb, suspended high in the air that can accommodate eight diners for a unique experience. Headed by Culinary Director Stephen Nairn, the talented team has created a contemporary Asian menu, blending innovative techniques with traditional flavours to deliver a refined and immersive culinary experience.
About LK Hospitality Group
Founded in 2019 by Melbourne-based entrepreneur Larry Kestelman, LK Hospitality has quickly made a name for itself as the home of innovative, creative and excellent drinking and dining experiences. Led by Culinary Director, Stephen Nairn, its portfolio includes award-winning Yugen Dining, Yugen Omakase, Nidaime, and neighbourhood European Bistro & Bar, Omnia, as well as The Grand Room and Bromley Gallery & Event Spaces, all located within the prestigious Capitol Grand, on the bustling corner of Toorak Road and Chapel Street, South Yarra.
