February 24 is World Bartender's Day, when the professionals behind the bar are recognised for the creativity, flair and hospitality they deliver night in, night out.

While many parts of Asia deal with Omicron surges, the bar industry remains one of the most heavily impacted trades, with places like Hong Kong choosing blanket bans on the operation of nightlife venues entirely.

So if you can, take the opportunity to visit your favourite bar (or two) for a celebratory drink tonight, if not to take the stress out of living in our current plague year, then at the very least to show a little support to the bartending professionals who have shown immense resilience over the past two years. Take a moment now to follow these 15 mixologists from around Asia for insights into what goes into creating an original cocktail, new spirits to try, and inspiration for your next DIY drink to shake up.