Guest shifts face growing criticism

Bar takeovers confuse guests, dilute drink quality, and often prioritize brands over loyal regulars. Industry figures have started pushing back against the standard practice.

“they can be confusing to guests, dilute the quality of both teams' drinks, and sometimes prioritize brands and influencers over loyal regulars”

Himkok wanted something different

After hosting their own guest shifts, the Oslo bar's team decided to create Nordic Sessions instead. The goal was to build genuine connections and market their bar through shared experiences.

Nordic Sessions are cultural immersions

Himkok brings bartenders, journalists, and brand partners together for two to four days to experience Norwegian traditions, ingredients, and places that inspire the bar. Activities include cross-country skiing, mushroom foraging, hiking, and cabin stays.

“cultural immersions where we bring bartenders, journalists, and brand partners together to experience the places, traditions, and ingredients that inspire our bar”

Norway's strict alcohol marketing rules

Norway restricts alcohol advertising, limiting the promotional value of traditional guest shifts. Nordic Sessions let Himkok create high-quality films and photography that partners can use in other markets and on social media.

Guest shifts disappointed their customers

Himkok received repeated feedback from guests who found the visiting bar's cocktails and methods didn't translate well. Hosting other teams also strained their 12-person staff at a 350-person capacity venue.

Shared days build deeper conversations

Spending several days together during Nordic Sessions creates space for conversations that are difficult to have during busy service. The extended time together creates more value than a single evening event.

Trolltunga hike became legendary

A challenging hike to Trolltunga cliff in Norway brought together World Class legend Gabriele Armani, journalists, and bartenders Shingo Gokan and Nóra Földvári. Difficult weather and shared struggle created lasting friendships and conversations.

“Some of the best conversations and friendships grew from that moment”

Brand partnerships create content

Himkok works with spirits, nonalcoholic brands, glassware companies, and food producers. Partners receive films, social media edits, and photography. Participating bartenders share their experience and create a drink featuring the sponsor's brand.

Expanding beyond Norway soon

Himkok is planning Nordic Sessions in Iceland for November, applying the same cultural immersion approach in a new location. They also plan follow-up events, trade dinners, and workshops to keep relationships developing after trips end.

Opening sessions to consumers next

Himkok plans to welcome consumers into selected Nordic Sessions experiences. They want to share this side of the bar with people beyond the hospitality industry.