Otaku Outlook Team
The Suntory Cocktail Award competition is a central event in the ongoing series BARTENDER Glass of God, particularly in episode 8. This episode focuses on the creative processes of three main bartenders: Ginjo Yuri, Kawakami Kyoto, and Kelvin Chen. Each bartender draws inspiration from their personal experiences and backgrounds to craft unique cocktails for the competition, aiming to impress the judges with their one-of-a-kind creations
BARTENDER Glass of God Episode 8 Review
In BARTENDER Glass of God episode 8, the Suntory Cocktail Award competition puts the spotlight on bartenders Ginjo Yuri, Kawakami Kyoto, and Kelvin Chen as they navigate personal and professional challenges to create unique cocktails. Yuri, initially struggling with her drink concept, ultimately shines with a tribute to her mentor,
winning the competition due to her confidence and skill. Kyoto, battling self-doubt, and Chen, seeking his father’s acceptance, both falter but find new paths—Kyoto secures a job at Hotel Cardinal, and Chen returns to Singapore to work at his father’s hotel, albeit with mixed feelings. While Yuri’s victory is satisfying, Chen’s resolution feels less earned, given his earlier resistance.
The episode deepens the narrative by exploring the bartenders’ backstories and raises curiosity about main character Ryu Sasakura, particularly with a mysterious post-credits scene hinting at his past. Overall, the episode blends personal growth with professional challenges, setting the stage for further exploration of Sasakura’s story and the coveted “Glass of God.”
Bartender Challenges
In episode 8, viewers are given a deeper insight into the personal and professional struggles of the bartenders as they prepare for the competition. Yuri grapples with the challenge of developing a concept for her drink, initially seeking inspiration from previous winners but eventually finding her unique approach. Kyoto battles with self-doubt and fears that her performance might tarnish the reputation of Bar Minami. Meanwhile, Chen faces the hurdle of gaining his father’s acceptance of his career choice as a bartender.
Competition Highlights
As the competition unfolds, it becomes evident that Yuri is likely to emerge as the winner. Despite the other bartenders’ efforts, their internal conflicts hinder their performances. Kyoto experiences a moment of paralysis during her turn, and Chen not only spills a glass but also presents a different drink than the one he had originally submitted. Yuri, however, performs with confidence and skill, showcasing a drink that honors her mentor and stands out to the judges.
Outcomes and Reflections
Although Yuri wins the competition, the episode concludes with positive outcomes for all the bartenders. Kyoto is offered a position at Hotel Cardinal as a lounge bartender, thanks to a recommendation from Ryu Sasakura. Chen is set to continue his bartending journey at his father’s hotel in Singapore. However, there is a note of dissatisfaction with Chen’s outcome, as he initially resisted returning to Singapore and wanted to prove himself independently. Despite his less-than-stellar performance, he ends up working at a prestigious hotel bar, a resolution that feels somewhat unearned.
Final Thoughts
The episode provides valuable insights into the backstories of the supporting bartenders, deepening the viewers’ connection to their personal journeys and struggles. This development raises further curiosity about the series’ main bartender, Ryu Sasakura. The post-credits scene, featuring Sasakura in front of an empty space with a fence, hints at a deeper, unrevealed aspect of his background. This scene prompts questions about Sasakura’s past and the significance of the “Glass of God” in relation to his story. Viewers are left wondering about the nature of Sasakura’s signature drink and whether he will eventually join the Hotel Cardinal, adding another layer of intrigue to the series.
Conclusion
BARTENDER Glass of God episode 8 masterfully blends personal growth with professional challenges, showcasing the bartenders’ journeys as they strive to create the perfect cocktail. Yuri’s victory, though anticipated, is a testament to her skill and dedication. The episode sets the stage for further exploration of Ryu Sasakura’s character, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next installment and the deeper mysteries it promises to unravel.
