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Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/63431
bestseller Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay ($20 to $35 a 375-ml bottle), but individual locations are also given some freedom with the other off erings. Vodka is the top selling spirit across the brand, which is most often Absolut (priced from $6 to $8) and imported beer outsells domestic two to one. Morgan has also tried some creative ways to entice customers with his minibar items like putting the water and candy bars outside of the fridge. "Th e items on the tray outside of the actual minibar outsell the locked items," he notes. His advice, "Come up with a presentation that is outside of the bar itself that caters to the desire of the customer. Don't worry about them stealing: it's huge opportunity." All the hotel's guest rooms feature a Martini bar set up with glasses and cocktail shaker to entice customers to imbibe. "Our minibars feature three cocktail recipes: the Bloody Maria is made with tequila and Bloody Mary mix; the Cuba Libre with rum and coke; and the Gin & Sin with gin, Sprite and cranberry juice. All of the necessary ingredients can be found in the mini bar," he says. Th e three cocktails are also available at the hotel's ZuZu Lounge. For those not wanting a cocktail, the minibar at Valley Ho is in Scottsdale, Arizona, play to the venue's retro-style. "We select the products that our guests enjoy most, avoiding beverages that are too expensive as they don't tend to sell very often," John Petrusyk, director of purchasing and beverage, says. Valley Ho tries to go beyond the standard minibar selections. RETROFIT Th e minibars at the 1950s-style, one-location Hotel Valley Ho Royal Caribbean's suites features family-friendly mini bars, such as this one seen in a Loft Suite on the Oasis of the Sea. is zero markup for us," he says. "Th e soda is $1.95—the same as anywhere else on the ship—Evian is $3.95 for one-liter of Evian and snacks cost $4.95." For those wanting stronger drink options, wine, beer and mixed drinks can be purchased through room service," he says. Because the ships are international there may be some variations from region to region. Th ough Midyette says the items picked are "universally popular in Europe, North America and South America [and] a little less so in Asia." So whether you are game to off er a full minibar that features "Fun, vintage-style items like the Martini shaker and Valley Ho playing cards that can be purchased straight from the mini bar," he says. "Whether you spend the night in one of our rooms or just stop for a drink in the lounge, the retro vibe defi nitely makes you want a classic cocktail." FAMILY FRIENDLY On the 40-ship fl eet of Royal Caribbean International, also fully stocked with Ketel One ($7), Bacardi ($5), 1800 Tequila ($7), Maker's Mark ($6) and a 200-ml. bottle of Belvedere Vodka ($24). Wine options include Acacia Chardonnay ($22), Row Eleven Pinot Noir ($26), Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($26) and Chandon Brut Classic ($30) and beers like Miller Lite ($4.75) and Corona Extra ($5.50) are also popular. Th e focus on the retro look and feel has been successful. New York City. Michelle Paolillo Lockett is a food and drinks writers based near craft cocktails or want to go the simpler route, remember to keep guests' tastes in mind when fi lling the minibar. simple, family-friendly fare rules the minibar experience. "We are a family-oriented cruise line so don't off er alcohol," says Bob Midyette, director of fl eet beverage operations. "We don't have a way to secure the minibars; there is no lock on them." Th e challenge of having a fl oating hotel means that supplies Sprite and sparking water, along with four food items, often Shortbread Cookies, Snicker bars, M&Ms and peanuts. "Th ere www.cheersonline.com are limited. "Our minibar is simple," he says. "Each ship has about 1,500 rooms. To maintain consistency, we don't deviate much. Supplies are limited on the ship, so we fi nd things that work universally and make them effi cient." Th e fl eet's minibars feature Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Diet For the Omni Mount Washington Resort, this particular location pictured is in New Hampshire, mini bars are part of a luxury experience. MAY 2012 | 37