If you’ve sat at the Yardbird bar, you’ll recognize this handsome face. Geoff Marret is known for bringing a fun, positive energy to the restaurant each night and while he’s usually the one making drinks, he is passionate about all aspects of the restaurant biz. Keep reading to find out where Geoff is from, how he ended up at Yardbird, and why the only time you’ll see him in shoes is at work.
What is your role at Yardbird and how long have you been with the company?
I’m a bartender. I’ve been with the company for about 1.5 years.
Where are you from and how did you end up in Hong Kong?
I’m from Melbourne, Australia. How I ended up in Hong Kong? I was traveling and working in Japan a few years ago. Matt was a guest Chef at one of the places I was working at. I had to leave Japan for… reasons I cannot explain, but I got back in touch with Matt and came to Hong Kong for Yardbird.
You’ve worked in hospitality in Australia, Japan, and Hong Kong. Which place was your favorite and why?
Japan! I learned so much there. I love the balance between working and enjoying life. I love the people, the music, the culture, the outdoor sports… everything about it. Everything you’d ever want, Japan has to offer.
Why hospitality?
My end goal is to open my own place where my mates can hang out and get loose, so this is the path towards that.
What do you love about the work you do?
The rush. The environment. The creativity.
What are your pet peeves at work?
Wankers.
You have experience working in the kitchen, behind the bar, and on the floor as a server. Which has been your favorite and why?
I love it all–you can’t really compare them.
How do you stay healthy and find balance while working long hours, working nights, and having to drink as part of your job?
On my days off, I escape the chaos of Hong Kong and trek to the waterfalls and beaches away from the city.
What’s your beverage of choice and why?
I love a good frosty cold beer. Or spiced rum with cucumber and ginger beer.
What are your favorite spots in Hong Kong for food? How about for drinks?
I like going to Kowloon side and restaurant hopping, eating everything until I can’t eat anymore. For drinks, I just love drinking on the street with my mates. Or I just go with the flow. Anywhere can be fun.
If you weren’t in this line of work, what would you be doing?
I’d be an artist.
When you’re not working, you’re either in boots or flip flops, but nothing in between. Explain.
Because I f***ing hate shoes.