Tossing around good times at The D Bar
By Kiko Miyasato
Christian Delpech
Christian Delpech has lived in cities that some of us can only dream about—Buenos Aires, Argentina (where he was born); Ibiza, Spain; Madrid, Tel Aviv, Israel; Cancún, Mexico, and Miami. And just what was Delpech doing in those amazing destinations? Why, bartending, of course. But for Delpech, it’s not just bartending—he’s one of the top flair bartenders in the world, with 19 world championships and more than 40 awards. Las Vegas was lucky enough to welcome him in 2000, and currently he’s the lead flair bartender at The D Bar at The D Las Vegas downtown. “Flairing is challenging and fun at the same time,” said Delpech, who used to practice more than five hours a day for months on end.
It’s been more than a dozen years since he began; now Delpech teaches flair bartending and performs in showcases and exhibitions. If you’re at the Fremont Street Experience you’re going to want to stop by the outdoor bar and watch Delpech in action. One of his signature moves is throwing a bottle in the air and catching it in his mouth. “I can flair anything … a beer bottle, straw, a napkin, fruit, the glass, bottles, shakers … basically whatever’s behind the bar I can flair.”
So, after so many years, is he tired of his trade? No way, he’s quick to proclaim. “As long as my shoulders and my arms allow me to I will keep flair bartending. You can flair until you’re 70 … as long as you bartend you can keep flairing, until your body gives out.”
The D Cocktail
When you order this flavorful flair cocktail, you can expect to get a show. The sweet treat is mixed with Skyy Raspberry vodka, Cointreau, raspberry liqueur, Finest Call sweet and sour mix, a splash of club soda and two squeezed lime wedges. While you’re at The D Bar, don’t miss the go-go dancers on the opposite end of the bar, serving up 18 different flavors of alcoholic slushies in souvenir glasses.
