The James Grant Recipe

Fairmont Royal York welcomes James Grant, World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2021 and Canada’s 100 Best Bartender of the Year 2022, as Director of Mixology for the hotel’s esteemed dining venues. James debuts a new vision for the hotel’s cocktail programming, beginning with a new cocktail menu at CLOCKWORK Champagne & Cocktails.

Natural Talent

After a successful career in corporate public relations, James Grant found himself living in London, UK, and felt inspired to apply to work as a bar back at a local pub. His natural talent lead him to discover his true calling as a mixologist and his dedication quickly propelled him to the forefront of the industry.

After a year, James returned home to Edmonton, Alberta, where he ran the 16-seat speakeasy Little Hong Kong. Here, James developed a luxury hospitality mindset focused on creating individual experiences for each guest.

“As bartenders, we don’t serve drinks. We make drinks and serve guests. Each time I meet a guest, I engage with them to identify what they need and want at that moment, then craft an experience that fits those needs.”

Designing the Guest Experience

“Our new menu beckons our guests to consider the moments they spend with our team at Fairmont Royal York. Our guests’ time is valuable, and we want them to consider each precious moment that passes in Clockwork and to find them, indeed, well-spent.”

James seamlessly blends art, philosophy and time into the concept of the new menu. The cocktails draw attention to the passage of time and how oneself evolves throughout that experience – from first to last sip. Experiences in CLOCKWORK can fly by in a moment of celebration with champagne, luxuriously pass by over a complex cocktail, or host a moment of reprieve and relaxation before a night out.

Time is the ultimate luxury in self-indulgence.

Join us at CLOCKWORK in the lobby of Fairmont Royal York, to experience James’ craftsmanship in artistic and theatrical cocktails, and a reverence for classics like the martini and old fashioned.

Everyday at 4:00 pm, like clockwork, guests are greeted with a mini champagne flute filled with James’ sparkling Tick Tock cocktail.

Open daily, from noon until midnight. Walk-ins only after 3:00 pm.

Follow James @oldgrayrabbit
Follow CLOCKWORK @clockworktoronto