In this portrait of the month, we explore the journey of Raphael Betti, an entrepreneur who blended creativity and passion in the hospitality world. From working in bars to launching BAC in Luxembourg and managing global events like the Cannes Festival , Betti’s path showcases ambition- and resilience.
A dynamic journey into hospitality
Raphael Betti, also known as Betti in the industry, has carved an unconventional yet inspiring path in the hospitality sector. With over a decade of experience that began during his university years, Betti started working in bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Initially, hospitality was a way to support his studies aimed at becoming a teacher. However, upon completing his degree, he chose to dive fully into the hospitality industry.
Betti’s decision to explore a career outside his field of study stemmed from a desire to discover what truly excited him. “I wanted to do something different, try it out for a while, and see what happens,” he shares. The results were clear: even after clocking over 40 hours a week for two years, he still loved the job. This realisation led to the launch of his own project, BAC, in 2023.
The vision behind his own venue
Opening BAC in Luxembourg was both a personal and professional ambition for Betti. He wanted to be his own boss and create a space that reflected his vision. “It’s not the same if it’s not your place,” he explains. After finding the ideal location—near the city center but slightly off the beaten track—Betti tailored his concept to the venue.
BAC is centered on a distinctive concept: exclusively using Luxembourgish alcohols and products. “That’s something that’s new in the country and even new to the world, actually,” he says. The bar’s menu features creative cocktails, refreshed every two weeks to keep things new and exciting for regulars. Music at BAC is played exclusively on vinyl, further enhancing the unique atmosphere.
Betti’s signature cocktail, the “Eislécker,” is a twist on the classic margarita and has become a staple that keeps loyal customers coming back.
From competitions to red carpets
Before launching BAC, Betti honed his skills and expanded his perspective through participation in regional and international cocktail competitions. Representing Benelux at the world championships in Sydney was a career milestone, offering him the chance to connect with industry peers and learn from the best.
“The biggest lesson? Seeing what’s possible in this industry,” Betti reflects, acknowledging how competing revealed the depth of creativity and expertise within the world of mixology.
His talent has also taken him to prestigious global events such as the Cannes Festival, where he has managed pop-up bars near the red carpet. Over the years, his responsibilities at Cannes have grown, enabling him to serve high-profile guests in exclusive private spaces. Although the menus at such events are often limited, the opportunity to interact with world-renowned figures has been invaluable.
Recalling one standout moment, Betti shares: “I was waiting for the elevator with Diane Krüger, and right in front of me was laying the newest magazine of the film festival where she was on the cover, and she bent over and said, “Oh, that’s a nice picture of me.””
Despite such thrilling encounters, he emphasises the importance of professionalism and discretion, ensuring a balance between the excitement of the job and maintaining a high standard of conduct.
Behind the scenes: the daily hustle and ambitious dreams
Betti’s daily routine reflects the challenges he faces and the lessons he’s learned in his journey as a bar owner. Starting his day around 10 am, he focuses on consistency in both business management and bar operations while ensuring he maintains effective time management to stay productive and support his team. With BAC growing, he’s also tackling new challenges, such as participating in festivals, catering private events, and ensuring creativity remains at the forefront of his brand.
Looking ahead, Betti envisions expanding to a second location, though he’s in no rush. “It would need to be independent of me and not too tied to my image,” he says. For now, his focus remains on fostering innovation and sustaining the passion and creativity that have made his journey so rewarding.
His journey from student bartender to entrepreneur exemplifies how passion and willingness to embrace challenges can lead to remarkable achievements in this competitive industry. Through BAC, he continues to push boundaries, champion local products, and create a space where creativity and quality shine.
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