Latest news with #Dorsia
Forbes
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Why Ketel One Has Placed Such A Big Bet On The Martini
Ketel One has placed a big bet on marketing activations around the martini, including an event held ... More at The Polo Bar restaurant last year in New York City. Ketel One's big bet on the martini isn't just for National Martini Day on June 19. The Dutch vodka brand says it's all-in on the martini all year round. 'When that glass comes out, everyone thinks differently; there's an expectation that that person has a little bit more knowledge when it comes to cocktails,' Ryan Hughes, brand director at Ketel One, tells me during a virtual interview. 'That triangular-shaped glass has the opportunity to evoke a lot of emotions.' Over the past year, Ketel One's martini-focused campaigns have included a holiday campaign with actor Patrick Schwarzenegger and a second campaign with the White Lotus star that highlighted a vesper martini that blends Ketel One with Tanqueray gin and took inspiration from the hit HBO TV show. Most recently, Ketel One is offering a sweepstakes giveaway for three Dorsia memberships, partnering with the members-only platform that raised $50.4 million in seed and Series A funding earlier this year and helps members get tables at the restaurant hot spots that are the most difficult to book. Other recent activations have included influencer and media events at New York City restaurants The Polo Bar and Dante, as well as an espresso martini machine that can make cocktails in around 20 seconds for bars and restaurants. The consumers that Ketel One says it is targeting with these marketing campaigns are cocktail enthusiasts who tend to be older, more likely to live in a city and come from a higher income household. 'You need someone who's going to want to get away from a vodka soda and say, 'You know what, it's time for me to have a martini,'' says Hughes. Ketel One's martini marketing is also a nod to the brand's heritage. Ketel One was founded in 1983 by Carel Nolet Sr., part of a Holland family that has been distilling alcohol since 1691 and still retains 50% ownership of the brand after selling the other half to liquor giant Diageo for $900 million in 2008. His sons, Bob and Carl Nolet Jr., remain actively involved in managing the business. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 19: Patrick Schwarzenegger attends Ketel One Family Made Vodka ... More Celebrates Patrick Schwarzenegger As Its First-Ever Spirit Advisor at Times Square EDITION Hotel on November 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo byfor Ketel One Family Made Vodka) Hughes credits Nolet Sr. for the brand's strong association with the martini. When he came to the U.S., he felt that no vodka he tried was able to shine in any of the cocktails he tried. 'And so when they created that vodka, it was always about creating unforgettable cocktail experiences,' says Hughes. Rival vodka brands have increasingly been placing bets on the martini, which is a popular drink order at the bar, ranging from the espresso martini to even mini variations. Many have the campaigns have starred celebrities, including a spot that debuted just last week from Grey Goose featuring Oscar-winning actress Zoe Zoe Saldaña, Tito's Handmade Vodka spot with TV personality and entrepreneur Martha Stewart around Dry January and last year's campaign by Pernod Ricard's Absolut vodka with 'Espresso' singer Sabrina Carpenter. 'We've created a leadership gap and everyone is noticing that,' says Hughes. 'They're now nipping at our heels.' Efforts to reinforce Ketel One's legacy association with the martini have paid off, according to the brand, which claims it has reached its highest level of U.S. household penetration in the last five years, citing data from market researcher Numerator. Ketel One also claims to have gained vodka market share for 105 consecutive weeks through May 24, citing data analysis from Nielsen and the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association. Hughes says the martini's versatility can also help lure in new drinkers, those that may prefer the citrus that comes from a lemon drop or coffee in an espresso martini. Other drinks that Ketel One have recently promoted include a peppermint espresso martini and a White Lotus inspired Thai chili espresso martini. He says there's further experimentation around botanicals, cucumbers and other unique flavors that Ketel One keeps a close eye on. 'Vodka is so versatile,' says Hughes. 'It has this blank canvas for people to be able to play with.'
Time Out
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
American Psycho's uber-exclusive Dorsia restaurant is popping up IRL in New York City
Move over, Via Carota. There's a new impossible table in town. For tonight only, the fictional white whale of the Manhattan dining scene, Dorsia—yes, that Dorsia—is coming to life in New York City, thanks to a partnership between Ketel One Family Made Vodka and hospitality-tech phenom Dorsia. And no, Paul Allen is not invited. A nod to the cult classic American Psycho, the IRL Dorsia pop-up will reimagine the iconic, never-quite-reachable restaurant as an immersive cocktail experience, where martinis come with a side of status—and a solid gold aesthetic. Hosted at one of the city's top restaurants (location: naturally undisclosed until you're on the list), the night promises 1980s excess with modern martini flair. Expect signature drinks like the "First Name Basis" (a dirty martini with blue cheese olives) and the "Power Suit," a savory, umami-laced concoction with tomato-infused Ketel One and horseradish. Yes, even the cocktails are dressed for success. In true Wall Street-era fashion, exclusivity is the main course. Beyond the velvet rope, guests will find a Ketel One martini tower, a cocktail-pick engraving station for personalized swag, '80s-inspired props (think vintage brick phones, Walkmans and briefcases) and retro Polaroids for that just-came-from-McCoy's photo shoot. Custom coasters, matchbooks and restaurant-style takeaways only add to the dinner party-meets-culture-club vibe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ketel One Vodka United States (@ketelone_us) Even if you're not on the guest list, you can still get a taste: Ketel One is giving away three coveted Dorsia Premium Memberships, which offer access to the world's toughest reservations and cultural events, to fans who comment 'IYKYK' on @KetelOne_US's Instagram post and tag a drinking buddy. And for those already dining at top-tier NYC restaurants, the 'Drinks on Dorsia' program unlocks signature Ketel One cocktails at participating venues, bookable via the Dorsia app. 'This collaboration will transform the Dorsia fantasy into a tangible experience,' said Ryan Hughes, the brand director for Ketel One Vodka, 'and offer culture and dining enthusiasts a taste of next-level hospitality centered around the art of a perfectly crafted cocktail.'
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Ketel One Family Made Vodka Partners with Dorsia to Unlock Access & Celebrate their Vision of the Fictional Dorsia for One Night Only
Partnership to also offer insider perks, from coveted premium membership giveaways to martini experiences at NYC's top restaurants, for those in the know - If You Know, You Ketel NEW YORK, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ketel One Family Made Vodka is teaming up with Dorsia, the global leader in the hospitality and tech space, best known for allowing its members access to the world's hardest to get restaurant reservations and most sought-after cultural experiences, to bring the legendary allure of the fictional Dorsia to life for one night only. For one unforgettable night on June 3, Ketel One Vodka will unite tastemakers who are truly in the know; those who recognize a defining cultural moment, live deep within dining and entertainment, and instinctively reach for a Ketel One Vodka martini to celebrate it. In partnership with Dorsia, Ketel One Vodka will reimagine the famously elusive restaurant from pop culture lore, transforming one of New York's most sought-after dining destinations into a cocktail-centric experience. This exclusive evening taps into today's cultural obsession for rare reservations and iconic entertainment moments, offering an immersive ode to those who expect more from a night out and know that every elevated evening begins with a Ketel One martini. IYKYKetel. Beyond the exclusive Dorsia door, Ketel One Vodka is also making other sought-after reservations easier to access through a highly coveted giveaway to three lucky winners, who will each receive a Dorsia Premium Membership, unlocking VIP reservations to world-class restaurants and cultural events. To enter, consumers must follow @KetelOne_US on Instagram, comment "IYKYK" #KetelOneSweepstakes on the giveaway post and tag a friend to have a cocktail with. Applicants must be 21+ to enter, subject to Official Rules. "At Ketel One, we believe in creating extraordinary moments that elevate the everyday and go beyond expectations," said Ryan Hughes, Brand Director, Ketel One Vodka. "This collaboration will transform the Dorsia fantasy into a tangible experience and beyond that, offer culture and dining enthusiasts a taste of next-level hospitality centered around the art of a perfectly crafted cocktail." To take the partnership to the next level, Ketel One Vodka is debuting the "Drinks on Dorsia" cocktail program at a curated selection of New York City's top restaurants, bookable on the Dorsia app. Members dining at participating venues can unlock a signature Ketel One cocktail; adding a touch of martini magic to their meal and turning an already desirable reservation into an unforgettable night out. For more information, please visit or follow along on Instagram @KetelOne_US. About Ketel One Family Made VodkaKetel One Family Made Vodka is inspired by 330 years and 11 generations of the Nolet Family's distilling expertise. Ketel One is crafted using only the highest-quality ingredients, including 100% non-GMO grain and is gluten-free. That quality has led to global recognition with Drinks International as the number one trending vodka in the world's best bars, a top ten bartenders' choice of vodka, and one of the best-selling vodkas in the world's best bars (Drinks International Brands Report, 2022). Inspired by the passionate pursuit of excellence in their craft, Ketel One continues to toast to the artists, trailblazers and innovators in the entertainment industry. Follow Ketel One Family Made Vodka on Instagram for additional inspiration and information: @KetelOne_US. About Diageo North AmericaDiageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: DGE) and their products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, their people, brands, and performance visit Visit Diageo's global responsible drinking resource, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practices. Follow on Twitter and Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA. About DorsiaDorsia, the global leader in the hospitality and tech space, is best known for allowing its members access to the world's hardest to get restaurant reservations and most sought-after cultural experiences. Dorsia was founded by CEO Marc Lotenberg, a seasoned entrepreneur and media executive renowned for leading innovative ventures in lifestyle, art and design. In an age where spontaneity and access are the ultimate luxuries, Dorsia members can touch down in any destination, from global hubs to seasonal hot spots, and immediately unlock the best dining, daylife, nightlife, and culture. Dorsia's mission is to transform the economy and experience of hospitality and events through its patented frictionless payments technology. // Follow on social @dorsia Media Contacts:Diageo NASydney Bullfrog + BaumElena DabbyKetelOneVodkaPR@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Ketel One Family Made Vodka
Time Out
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Inside Bowie, the new Montreal speakeasy hidden in Old Montreal
This new exclusive resto-bar doesn't allow cameras, but I got in. Here's what I experienced—photos included. Sometimes when I'm comfortably seated in a dining room, alternating between watching the other guests (trying to decipher their emotions), admiring the décor, and observing the staff at work while browsing my favourite reading material (the menu!), I wonder just how much the setting and atmosphere can influence the outcome of an evening. The décor, the lighting, the music, the staff's energy and the atmosphere created by the clientele—all of these elements may seem secondary compared to the quality of the food. But if you consider that each guest will likely spend more than half their time taking in their surroundings, it's clear that creating an epic atmosphere that aligns with the restaurant's concept is essential. (Coincidentally or not, the last time I asked myself the same question was after leaving Dorsia last summer, Bowie's impressive sister project from the WITH group: Ayla, Ryu, Livia). Heading downstairs to Bowie, tucked away below Dorsia in Old Montreal, I realised immediately that if the team is trying to raise Montreal's standards of elegance, refinement, service, and guest experience at Dorsia, then this new speakeasy is just as committed to the cause. Pushing the envelope even further by opening only by reservation, enforcing a strict dress code, and banning all cameras, the VIP card is being played loud and clear at Bowie. Whether you're stopping in for an early evening cocktail, settling in for a full meal featuring chef Miles Pundsack-Poe's Asian-inspired cuisine, or wrapping up your night in style with bottle service and guest DJs, Bowie has nailed the art of offering a bespoke experience as soon as you walk through the door. Before diving into the menu (does it live up to the setting?), it's worth making a stop at the cocktail list, created by Louis-Philippe Laforest. Each drink is the result of infusions, evaporations, percolations, dry blends and careful layering. It's a deeply personal and often daring menu, but one that's impeccably executed and leaves little room for interpretation. I'm talking about cocktails like the Smalltown Boy (Johnnie Walker Black Label, dry Zérès, banana, Campari, Laphroaig 10 Year, molé); Golden Years (Reposado tequila, bianco amaro, Lillet Blanc, coffee, palo santo, coconut oil infusion); Diana's (Brown butter Belvedere vodka, champagne, white peach, jasmine green tea, crème de cassis) and Babylon Club (London Dry gin, dry vermouth, chrysanthemum, raspberry, lemon). There's also a handful of martini riffs, like the Cosmo Solway which stood out for me thanks to its perfect balance of Aupale vodka, mandarin liqueur, morello cherry, vanilla, and cherry blossom. But the star of the evening was a brilliant twist on the classic gimlet, blending sea buckthorn with kalamansi gin. Wow! Chef Pundsack-Poe naturally leaned into Asian influences for the food, unsurprising for someone who led Chinese fine dining restaurant Ensue to 19th place on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants in 2022, following a few years at California's now-closed Michelin three-star Meadowood. Between dumplings, shrimp toast, cucumber salad, beef short rib, and a whole deep-fried fish in sweet chili sauce, you'll also find a cheeseburger slider, beef tartare, and fries with Espelette mayo (with the option to top them with fresh truffle). Unlike the drinks, where every sip brought new surprises and had me coming back for more, the food was a more uneven experience—a culinary score that alternated between standout highlights and duller, less defined moments. I craved more bold flavours, more crisp, expertly executed fried items like the fried chicken sandwich. More freshness and acidity, like the cucumber salad with wood ear mushrooms, soy sauce, and chili oil. And more memorable moments like the spectacular short rib glazed with sticky, umami-rich Chinese BBQ sauce. And it's in between these high notes that the supporting cast (the setting, the drinks, the atmosphere) picked up the slack for less successful dishes: a tuna tataki lacking seasoning, an overly oily shrimp toast, or otherwise promising steamed dumplings held back by a bland, watery sauce. With a mix of culinary highs and lows, I suggest ending things on a dazzling note that left me grinning: the mochi doughnuts with apple butter. ⭐️⭐️½ Atmosphere: The vibe evolves as the night goes on, with a DJ setting up around 10 p.m. The acoustics at Bowie deserve praise: despite the lively energy, you can still hear each other speak. What to eat: Small plates perfect for sharing throughout the night (dumplings, beef tartare, tuna tataki, fries), plus heartier options (whole fried fish, Wagyu ribeye, lobster roll). Full kitchen service until 10 p.m., with a reduced menu available until 2 a.m. What to drink: Inventive, carefully crafted cocktails made to be savoured. A few whites and reds are also available by the glass to satisfy any mood. Cocktails are served at the table well into the night, even during bottle service.
Bloomberg
13-02-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
Beyond Seats at Carbone: Reservation Platform Dorsia Raises $50 Million to Expand
Restaurant reservations are as hot a commodity as you can find these days. Take New York City, where every night, diners battle a thousand-plus waitlist to score seats at Chez Fifi bistro on the Upper East Side and Major Food Group's Carbone and Torrisi downtown. Now Dorsia, the members-only platform that offers access to destination dining rooms in 21 markets worldwide, is expanding in the category with $50.4 million in seed and Series A funding, founder Marc Lotenberg tells Bloomberg. The round, which values Dorsia at $146 million, was led by Index Ventures SA, with participation from Invus Group LLC and people such as Naomi Gleit, head of product at Meta Platforms Inc., and Jon Newman, co-founder of Sweetgreen Inc.
