Name: Tural H.
Position: Beverage Director
Location: The Tampa EDITION
Drink or treat of choice: A Charlie Chaplin [read more about it in his answers below]
Next time you’re at your favorite luxury hotel bar sipping negronis with your friends, think for a moment that someone is trying to tell a story through those drinks. That someone is Tural.
As a Beverage Director at The Tampa EDITION, Tural oversees the cocktail programs at standout venues like the Punch Room, Lobby Bar, and Arts Club. But for him, it’s about more than just what’s in the glass.
“Most people assume my role is all about mixing drinks, and of course, technique matters, but the real magic often happens before the first pour,” Tural says. “Every spirit, every cocktail, has a history, a culture, a purpose behind it. I love sharing those stories with guests. It turns the experience from “just a drink” into something far more memorable.”
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Tural, originally from a small town in Azerbaijan, stepped into the world of hospitality and found a global stage. His journey as beverage expert has taken him across the globe—from Dubai to Shanghai and now Florida.
“I realized that no matter where someone is from, a great drink, a warm welcome, or a shared story can connect us. That’s powerful.” And after nearly 15 years in luxury hospitality, he still gets excited every time he steps behind the bar. “There’s always a new idea to bring to life, a new team member to mentor, or a guest to surprise.”
Keep reading to know how he got the dreamy role and how he stays motivated to go the extra mile to make his bars the best bars in town.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a Beverage Director?
Before joining Marriott, I spent over a decade in luxury hospitality, from Dubai to The Maldives to Shanghai, leading beverage programs and opening high-profile venues. I joined Marriott in 2019 as Bar and Beverage Manager at The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai. Soon after, I became Director of Beverage and led beverage training for properties across Greater China. This role led to a promotion as Corporate Beverage Manager for Marriott International Greater China, overseeing beverage strategies of all hotels and brands in that region. Finally, in 2022, I moved to the U.S. to become Beverage Director at The Tampa EDITION.
What’s your favorite part of your job at The EDITION?
The fact that it blends creativity with strategy. Developing signature cocktail menus, leading brand activations, mentoring bar teams, and ensuring every guest experience is elevated and unforgettable.
Tell us about an unforgettable guest interaction that reminded you why you love what you do.
I remember a regular at the Arts Club. He and I had struck up a conversation about cocktails, and at some point, we both agreed that we would go on a journey to find his perfect drink. For several weeks, every time he visited I had him try something new. Different spirits, different balances, tasting, adjusting… At some point it wasn’t just about the drink anymore; it became a ritual we both looked forward to. Eventually, we landed on a cocktail built around Scotch whisky. It’s not just about crafting a good drink; it’s about listening, experimenting, and creating something meaningful and personal.
Can you describe the vibe or culture of your team in three words?
Creativity, Support, Drive! There’s a real sense of momentum when we’re in the flow together, helping each other, pushing for excellence, and having fun while we do it.
What’s your favorite drink to craft or serve?
The Charlie Chaplin. It is a forgotten classic that beautifully balances a mix of sloe gin, apricot brandy, and lime juice. It was named after the legendary silent film star, and it reminds me that great things don’t always need to shout to be heard. There’s elegance in simplicity.
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