Sharfin Akter Auni: The Rising Diva of Dubai’s Cocktail Culture
Early Life and Beginnings
The art of bartending is more than just pouring drinks—it is about creating stories in a glass, evoking emotions, and building human connections. Few embody this philosophy better than Sharfin Akter Auni, a dynamic and passionate bartender who has risen to prominence in Dubai’s thriving hospitality industry.
Born with a curious spirit and a love for social interaction, Sharfin’s journey into the world of beverages and mixology was far from accidental. From an early age, she was captivated by the theater of hospitality—the way a perfectly balanced drink could transform a guest’s mood or how a lively conversation across the bar could dissolve barriers between strangers. This natural inclination for people and storytelling would eventually become her biggest asset in her bartending career.
Sharfin’s entry into the hospitality sector began in Bengaluru, India, a city well-known for its cosmopolitan culture and vibrant nightlife. Working in such an eclectic environment gave her the foundation to understand the diversity of guest preferences, the importance of speed and precision in service, and the creativity required to keep patrons engaged. Her years in India not only honed her technical skills but also instilled in her a deep respect for hospitality as an art form.
Professional Beginnings in India
Before she became a household name in Dubai’s bar culture, Sharfin polished her craft in India, working with one of Bengaluru’s most celebrated venues, Byg Brewski. Known for its grand scale and innovative beverage offerings, Byg Brewski was the perfect training ground for a young bartender looking to make her mark.
Here, Sharfin was introduced to the complexity of large-scale bar management. From high-volume service to creating new twists on classic cocktails, she embraced the demands of the role with enthusiasm. More importantly, this stage in her journey exposed her to the nuances of mixology—the delicate balance between spirit, mixer, garnish, and storytelling.
Her transition from India to Dubai was not just a geographical shift but a leap into a world of global hospitality. With this move, Sharfin stepped into a larger stage where international competition was fierce, but so were the opportunities to shine.
Zuma Dubai: Entering the Global Arena
Her career took a defining turn when she joined Zuma Dubai, one of the world’s most recognized high-end Japanese restaurants. Known for its refined atmosphere and sophisticated clientele, Zuma was a challenge and an opportunity rolled into one.
Here, Sharfin’s bartending skills evolved from technical proficiency to artistry. Working with premium spirits, creating innovative cocktails, and interacting with a global clientele sharpened her ability to blend authenticity with luxury. Every cocktail she prepared became not just a drink, but an experience tailored to the guest in front of her.
At Zuma, Sharfin also experienced the intensity of Dubai’s hospitality scene, where competition among bartenders was high and expectations from guests were even higher. It was in this environment that she learned the discipline and precision that continue to define her career today.
Nobu Dubai: The Pinnacle of Bartending Elegance
Currently, Sharfin Akter Auni is making waves at Nobu Dubai, located at the luxurious Atlantis The Palm. Nobu, a brand synonymous with high-end dining, has provided her with the ultimate platform to display her talent.
At Nobu, Sharfin doesn’t just pour drinks—she curates immersive experiences. Each cocktail reflects her personal philosophy: hospitality is about storytelling, connection, and passion. Whether she’s crafting a Paloma with refreshing elegance or serving a bold bourbon-based creation, she brings her own flair to the art of mixology.
Her position at Nobu also placed her at the forefront of Dubai’s luxury beverage scene, where she interacts with global travelers, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals. The energy, creativity, and confidence she brings to the bar make her one of the most recognizable faces in Dubai’s mixology circles today.
Accolades and Recognition
Sharfin’s journey has not gone unnoticed. She has achieved recognition at both regional and international levels, proving her expertise and creativity.
- World Class UAE & Oman Finalist: Sharfin was a top-six finalist in one of the world’s most prestigious bartending competitions. This achievement solidified her reputation as a skilled mixologist capable of competing on a global stage.
- Best Bartender of the Year (Highly Commended): Awarded by Malt Society Arabia, this recognition highlighted her consistency, passion, and guest-focused approach.
- Feature Mentions in Media: Leading hospitality magazines like Caterer Middle East, Luxurious Magazine, and Hotel & Catering News have recognized her as one of the talents shaping Dubai’s bar culture.
These accolades are not just trophies but milestones that remind her—and others—of how far she has come in a short span of time.
Style and Signature Behind the Bar
Every bartender has a signature style that distinguishes them from others. For Sharfin, her style is a blend of classic craftsmanship, bold experimentation, and warm conversation.
- Signature Spirits: She has a particular love for bourbon, a spirit that resonates with her bold personality.
- Favorite Cocktails: Her expertise shines in preparing classics like the Hanky Panky and the Paloma, where her balance of flavors brings out the timelessness of these cocktails.
- Philosophy: She describes herself as being “best known for conversation and sips.” For Sharfin, bartending is not just about serving drinks but also about creating moments where guests feel heard, valued, and delighted.
Her approach makes her bar a space where guests come not only for the drinks but also for the experience of connecting with her charisma and expertise.
A Personality That Lights Up the Bar
One of Sharfin’s biggest strengths is her personality. She is unapologetically bold, confident, and energetic. Her mantra—“I walk like a diva, work like a beast”—perfectly captures her approach to life and work.
Guests often describe her as approachable, fun, and professional at the same time. She thrives on engaging conversations and makes every patron feel like they’re part of something special. Her presence behind the bar transforms the atmosphere, blending luxury with comfort.
Inspiration and Lifestyle
Outside of her professional commitments, Sharfin remains deeply inspired by global cocktail cultures. She is constantly learning, exploring new flavor profiles, and incorporating international trends into her creations.
- Memorable Experiences: Attending the World’s 50 Best Bars Night in 2022 was one of her most cherished memories, where she connected with global leaders in mixology.
- Personal Favorites: After long shifts, she prefers a simple draught beer, while at home, she enjoys the comfort of a Coca-Cola.
- Travel Goals: While she admires Dubai’s skyline and vibrant nightlife, she dreams of visiting Norway, drawn by its serene landscapes and unique drinking traditions.
This balance between professional excellence and personal simplicity makes her relatable while still being an aspirational figure in the hospitality world.
Impact on Dubai’s Hospitality Scene
Dubai’s F&B landscape is among the most competitive and glamorous in the world, yet Sharfin has carved out her space with determination and authenticity. She represents a new generation of bartenders who are not just service providers but also cultural ambassadors and innovators.
Her contributions extend beyond Nobu—she is part of a larger movement that is redefining bartending in the Middle East. By blending Indian roots, global exposure, and Dubai’s luxury ethos, she has become a bridge between cultures, flavors, and people.
Vision for the Future
At just six years into her career, Sharfin has already achieved milestones that many aspire to reach. Yet, for her, this is only the beginning. She envisions herself contributing to the global mixology stage, possibly leading her own concept bar in the future—one that blends creativity, inclusivity, and storytelling.
Her long-term vision includes mentoring young bartenders, especially women, in an industry where female representation is still growing. By leading with confidence and passion, she aims to inspire others to pursue careers in mixology without hesitation.
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
The story of Sharfin Akter Auni is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of hospitality to create connections. From her early days in Bengaluru to her current success at Nobu Dubai, she has consistently proven that bartending is both a science and an art.
Her accolades, her presence, and her philosophy have earned her recognition as one of Dubai’s top bartenders, a title she wears with pride and humility. As she continues to rise, Sharfin is not only shaping her own future but also influencing the future of mixology in Dubai and beyond.
Her journey is far from over—but one thing is certain: every cocktail she pours is a chapter in the larger story of her unstoppable rise in the world of luxury hospitality.
