Rus Yessenov
Director of Beverage, Fairmont Royal York, Toronto
Responsible for all wine, beer and cocktail programming at Fairmont Royal York, Rus Yessenov consistently elevates the guest experience. Since joining Fairmont Royal York in 2019, Yessenov has designed the cocktail and beverage menu for REIGN Restaurant & Bar and CLOCKWORK Champagne & Cocktails. In fact, CLOCKWORK was voted number 23 for Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants, Bars and Chefs under Yessenov’s leadership. He went on to create the cocktail menu for a holiday themed pop-up bar, Thirsty Elf, modified the menu at CLOCKWORK Terrace in response to COVID-19 restrictions and developed a line of at-home beverages. Yessenov is also preparing for the anticipated re-opening of Library Bar. Previously, Yessenov worked at the Four Seasons Hotel in Vancouver as bar manager and daydreamed about the next big move in his career.“
“Lucky for us, he was able to join the team at a pivotal time when the hotel was opening two brand new food-and-beverage concepts,” says Anna Chartres, regional director of Talent & Culture, Fairmont Royal York. “Rus immediately hit the ground running, and has taken full ownership of the entire beverage program at the hotel, taking it to new heights.”
