Bank Street Social and Nauti Buoy bartender Chris Wood has been crowned SA’s best bartender

An Englishman who moved Down Under to chase his hospitality dream has been crowned SA’s best bartender.

Chris Wood at Nauti Buoy in Henley Beach. Picture: Kelly Barnes

An Englishman who made a huge move Down Under to pour pints and shake cocktails is making a stir in the Adelaide bar scene.

Chris Wood landed in South Australia four and a half years ago after being approached by the owners of popular Henley Beach cafe, Nauti Buoy.

Englishman Chris Wood works at Nauti Boy in Henley Beach and has been announced as SA’s best bartender. Picture: Kelly Barnes

“We actually met doing hospitality in England and we used to talk about how I was obsessed with Australia and how much I love it,” Mr Wood said.

“Australian hospitality is also the highest paid in the entire world, so that kind of prompted the move.”

Now, after ten years in the industry, Mr Wood said he was “really happy” to be voted SA’s best bartender for 2024.

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say it felt great to get some sort of recognition,” he said.

“I basically came to this country to work in the hospitality industry, so to win an award like this, it means the world.”

The talented bartender is not only loved by his seaside patrons, but has also charmed the city crowd at Bank Street Social where he works the night shift.

“It’s the best bar in Adelaide in my opinion because I just feel like it ticks every box,” he said.

“It’s like an underground speak-easy … and then you’ve got the (Nauti Buoy) which is probably the best brunch spot on the beach.”

SA’s best bartender Chris Wood said it ”means the world” to take home the title. Picture: Kelly Barnes

Mr Wood said he has witnessed the highs and lows of the Aussie hospo scene after experiencing it both during and post Covid.

“There was a lot of despair and hopelessness and I feel like the state really didn’t help the industry at all. I feel like there’s a lot of ways in which the industry lacks support,” Mr Wood said.

“I feel like post Covid consumers are still gaining confidence in the industry.”

Despite these challenges, Mr Wood’s passion for bartending still remains strong as he said his love for people is what drives him.

“I can’t remember the last time I dreaded going to a shift,” he said.

“In this age of virtual socialisation I think in person interactions are invaluable and I feel so blessed to be a part of so many.

“I genuinely enjoy what I do.”

You can try one of Mr Wood’s speciality stirred cocktails such as a Manhattan or Negroni for yourself at Nauti Buoy or Bank Street Social.