Ada Coleman

English bartender

Ada Coleman (1875 – 1966) was a renowned English bartender who became one of the most famous female bartenders of the early 20th century. She is best known for her tenure as head bartender at the Savoy Hotel's American Bar in London, where she created the iconic cocktail known as the Hanky Panky.

Early Life

Ada Coleman was born in 1875 in England. Her father was the steward at the Rupert D'Oyly Carte's estate, and after his death, Ada sought employment to support her family. She began her career at the Claridge's Hotel in London, where she worked in various roles before discovering her passion for bartending.

Career at the Savoy

Ada Coleman at the Savoy

In 1903, Ada Coleman was appointed as the head bartender at the Savoy Hotel's American Bar, a position she held for over two decades. During her time at the Savoy, she became known for her charismatic personality and her ability to craft exquisite cocktails. Her clientele included many famous personalities of the time, such as Mark Twain, Charlie Chaplin, and Marlene Dietrich.

The Hanky Panky

Hanky Panky cocktail

One of Coleman's most famous creations is the Hanky Panky cocktail, which she invented for the actor Charles Hawtrey. The drink is a variation of a sweet martini, made with gin, vermouth, and a dash of Fernet-Branca. The cocktail gained popularity for its unique flavor and became a staple at the American Bar.

Legacy

Ada Coleman was one of the few women to achieve prominence in the male-dominated field of bartending during her time. Her contributions to the art of mixology have been celebrated by bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts around the world. She paved the way for future generations of female bartenders and remains an inspirational figure in the industry.

Later Life and Death

After retiring from the Savoy, Ada Coleman continued to be involved in the hospitality industry, sharing her knowledge and expertise with aspiring bartenders. She passed away in 1966, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the world of cocktails.

Related Pages

• Savoy Hotel
• Cocktail
• Bartender
• Hanky Panky (cocktail)