Himkok Turns 10 with Global Bar Takeovers Distillery Bar
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Himkok Turns 10 with Global Bar Takeovers

Acclaimed Norwegian cocktail bar and distillery Himkok is turning 10—and it’s celebrating in style. From April 4–6, the Oslo-based venue will host a landmark three-day celebration featuring international bar takeovers, industry panels, and a reunion of global cocktail heavyweights.

Founded in 2015 by Erk Potur, Himkok has become one of Scandinavia’s most influential bars, known for redefining Nordic cocktail culture and earning consistent accolades on The World’s 50 Best Bars list—most recently ranking No. 11 in 2024.

Himkok Turns 10 with Global Bar Takeovers Erk Potur owner
Erk Potur

The anniversary lineup is a dynamic mix of Scandinavian talent and global innovators. Day one features a Scandinavian Bar Takeover, spotlighting:

  • Hampus Thunholm (Roda Huset, Stockholm)
  • Hedda Bruce (Tjoget, Stockholm)
  • Peter Altgenburg (BIRD, Copenhagen)
  • Øyvind Lindgjerdet (Britannia Hotel, Trondheim)

Sponsored by Anora Brands, the regional showcase highlights the creative force shaping the Nordic drinks scene.

The second night, backed by Pernod Ricard’s SIP, invites world-renowned cocktail bars for an immersive global takeover across Himkok’s three distinct spaces—the Distillery Bar, Cider Bar, and Taptail Bar. Featured bars include:

  • Bar Leone and The Opposites (Hong Kong)
  • Line and The Clumsies (Athens)
  • Bar US (Bangkok)

Industry insights will take center stage during roundtable discussions, also sponsored by SIP, with expert panels led by Sandrae Lawrence, award-winning journalist and co-founder of The Cocktail Lovers. These conversations will explore themes of innovation, sustainability, and longevity in the bar world.

The final night brings home the spirit of Himkok, reuniting its alumni and global collaborators, including:

  • Moe Aljaff (Schmuck, New York)
  • Monica Berg (Tayēr + Elementary, London)
  • Jesper Høst (Bacardi Norway)
  • Alex Ruas and Sam Millen (Behind Bars, Oslo)

Reflecting on the journey, founder Erk Potur shared, “We’re incredibly grateful for the past 10 years. It’s been an honor to be part of this industry, and we’re excited to celebrate with everyone who’s supported us.”

Himkok Turns 10 with Global Bar Takeovers Maros Dzurus Bar manager
Maros Dzurus

Bar manager Maros Dzurus added, “This celebration is our way of giving back—honoring our roots, our team, and the community that defines us.”

From pushing boundaries in cocktail design to nurturing community and collaboration, Himkok’s 10-year celebration is set to be a defining moment in contemporary bar culture.

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