Ada Coleman - The First Female Bartender from London

Ada Coleman

As we celebrate International Women’s Day in this 2025, we want to shine a spotlight on a woman whose story shook up the world of mixology — Ada Coleman.

Who Was Ada Coleman?

Born in 1875 in England, Ada Coleman (known as “Coley”) wasn’t just a bartender, she was a pioneer (First Female Bartender). In 1903, at a time when women were rarely allowed to step behind the bar, Ada defied expectations and became the head bartender at London’s prestigious Savoy Hotel. 

Starting her journey as a waitress, Ada learned about drinks and customer service. Her passion and talent quickly caught the attention of her manager, who recognized her skill and promoted her to bartender. She didn’t just survive in that role — she thrived. She led the American Bar at the Savoy for over 20 years, mixing drinks for royalty, celebrities, and society’s elite. And through it all, she did so with confidence, talented, and unmatched creativity.

Ada Coleman’s Signature Hanky Panky Cocktail. Photo Courtesy of Squirrelfarts.com

A Signature Sip “The Hanky Panky”

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If you’ve ever enjoyed a Hanky Panky cocktail, you’ve tasted Ada’s legacy. She invented this iconic drink for actor Sir Charles Hawtrey, who asked her for a cocktail with a bit of a “punch.” Her clever creation, a balanced mix of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca — became a classic still served in top bars today.

Hanky Panky Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:	Instructions
1 1/2 oz Gin 1 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth 1/4 oz Fernet-Branca Orange twist (for garnish)	Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca. Stir well until chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

Ada’s career wasn’t just about crafting great cocktails, it was about breaking barriers. In an era when bartending was considered a man’s profession, Ada proved that talent knows no gender. She opened the door for future generations of women in hospitality and became a symbol of courage and creativity.

International Women's Day

More than a century later, Ada’s story continues to inspire women around the world. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a world-class bartender, a chef, a hotelier, or anything in between, Ada’s story is a reminder that every dream is valid, and every talent deserves a stage. 

To all the young Cambodian women stepping into the world of hospitality, mixology, or any field you love — know that you belong. Just like Ada, you have the power to shake up the industry and write your own story.

So, this International Women’s Day, we raise a glass to Ada Coleman, and to every woman creating change, breaking barriers, and following her dreams. 

Happy International Women’s Day, Cheers to you! 🥂