Good drinks are only part of the story. The real magic happens in the energy behind the bar, the people you're with, and the moments that stay with you long after the last sip. Ahead of his one-night Paloma Day takeover at Kaya Bar, The Standard, Singapore, we caught up with Filipino bartender and Código 1530 Tequila Brand Ambassador Shallum Recto to talk agave, hospitality, music and why great bars are about far more than what's in the glass.
You’re known for both flair bartending and music—how do those two worlds collide when you’re behind the bar?
Honestly, I’m a "failed" musician who found a home in bartending. But those worlds collide the moment the vibe hits. When the music and the atmosphere align, the movement becomes natural. Good drinks are a byproduct of a great moment.
What does a “perfect shift” feel like for you?
There is no such thing as a perfect shift. For me, energy is the only metric that matters. If the energy in the room is right, everything else follows.
You’ve competed on a global stage—how has that shaped your approach back home?
It made me more well-rounded and grounded. Meeting people from all walks of life who share the same ambition keeps you open-minded. It reminds you that we’re all students of the craft, no matter how many titles we’re chasing.
Where does a drink usually start for you: flavor, story, or feeling?
It rarely starts with a measurement; it begins with a story or a concept. While flavor is the ultimate goal, the narrative provides the roadmap. It tells you which direction the ingredients need to go.
What separates a good cocktail from one people remember?
Hospitality and the personal touch. You can follow a recipe perfectly, but the guest remembers the person who made it and how they were treated.
How do you balance technical precision with performance?
Practice, practice, practice. It’s like hitting the gym or learning an instrument—you have to clock in your reps until the technical side is second nature. And yes, I practice my personality too; that’s part of the job.
Why does the Paloma deserve the spotlight right now?
It’s approachable. It’s an easy cocktail that works anywhere—from house parties to high-end bars. It’s smashable, refreshing, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.
What makes your Paloma your Paloma?
My Bloody Paloma is essentially a spicy riff. It’s inspired by the savoury kick of a Bloody Mary but executed in a much more refreshing, highball style.
What’s the secret to making something simple feel elevated?
It’s 100% about the spirit. Only a tiny fraction of tequilas are verified additive-free. Código 1530 is a tequila made by process, not by design. If you have a quality base, your cocktail is already miles ahead of the competition.
The one detail home bartenders shouldn’t overlook?
Using poor quality tequila. You can’t build a house on a bad foundation.
What hooked you personally on the agave gospel?
The first shaken drink I ever made was a Margarita, but the history is what kept me. There’s a direct line between Batangas in the Philippines and Mexico. During the Manila–Acapulco Galleon Trade, Filipino sailors took their distillation techniques to Mexico. It’s a historical handshake.
How do you introduce agave to someone who thinks they don’t like it?
Código 1530 is so clean I usually let them try it neat. Once they taste a premium tequila—no chemicals, no glycerin, no caramel coloring—they’re usually converted on the spot.
What makes Código stand out today?
Authenticity. Transparent process, additive-free, simply agave, water, and yeast. Aged in French Oak Cabernet barrels, often referred to as the Rolls Royce of barrels.
What’s inspiring your palate right now—not just in drinks, but in life?
Rediscovering my rhythm through music. Open jam nights around the city influence how I build drinks—soulful, raw, and authentic rather than over‑engineered.
Singapore has such a dynamic bar scene—where do you think it’s heading next?
Hyper-authenticity. Fewer gimmicks, more real stories, intimate listening bars and spirit-specific shrines.
How do culture and travel influence the way you build drinks?
Travel gives you ingredients, culture gives you the why. My Batangas heritage is my North Star and informs how I honor the agave world.
Quick Fire
- Go-to drink after a shift: Tequila Highball
- Ingredient you can’t stop using: Tequila
- Music during prep: Polyphia
- Mood right now: Sweet
- One word for your style: Fun
Go home, put on some music, and remember—your next drink at The Standard starts with a great tequila, and a great story.
