Introducing Bar Manager Holly Bennetts
Bar Manager at The Greenbank Hotel, Holly Bennetts grew up on the Lizard peninsula in the picturesque village of Mullion. She began working in the hospitality industry when she was 17 years old. After completing education, Holly moved to Switzerland and worked in the equine industry for two years, studying horse behaviour. As she continued to work within the horse industry, Holly explains she was fortunate to travel through America with this job, gaining experience to become a qualified instructor in horsemanship.
After five years in this industry, Holly came back to Cornwall and returned to work in hospitality, as the hours provided flexible work. This in turn worked well for Holly, as she has now grown a business in teaching and started up her very own equestrian centre.
Gaining more experience in the hospitality industry, Holly worked her way up to become a Restaurant Supervisor in a previous hotel. It was at this point that a new Food and Beverage Manager arrived on the scene, Yohann Thuillier. Yohann became a huge influence for Holly, as she discovered a passion for making and creating cocktails whilst working with him. This passion has now led Holly to become Bar Manager at The Greenbank, where she can create exciting new cocktails for guests and locals alike.
What makes Falmouth so special to you?
Living in Cornwall, we are spoilt for choice with natural beauty and heritage. But what makes Falmouth so special is combining that with the vibrant culture, great local food, delicious drinks and a fantastic community spirit.
What’s your best-loved cocktail?
I love creating cocktails but I also love discovering new and exciting flavour combinations. You can never improve on a classic style cocktail. One of my favourites being a Caipirinha.
What’s your favourite thing to do in the summer?
I really enjoy spending time with my horses, going for a ride and exploring Cornwall’s beauty from horseback.
What cocktail would you recommend anyone should try?
There isn’t a cocktail in particular that anyone should try. But it’s worth trying something outside of your comfort zone! I often see people with a dislike of a spirit or liqueur, but when it’s mixed in a cocktail and balanced with other elements, it’s amazing how the flavour profile can change. Flavours that you once thought you wouldn’t like can take on a whole new dynamic.
What is the best spirit to work with?
I wouldn’t say there is necessarily a spirit that I prefer to work with, as I find they all bring their own exciting elements to a drink. It’s amazing how switching out the base spirit in a cocktail can completely alter the flavour profile of the drink. That’s the fun in creating cocktails!
What’s your favourite thing about Cornwall?
We are so fortunate to have access to wonderful local produce right on our doorstep. That is now reflected in our food and drinks culture. With so many bars and restaurants to choose from, I love discovering new places to visit.
