#Japan #Tokyo #TGI Fridays #Akihiro Suzuki #JAPAN FLAIR DREAM GAME

TGI Fridays Unveils Special Drink Inspired by Champion Bartender

TGI Fridays Japan, the largest American casual dining chain with over 450 locations in 41 countries, has introduced a limited-time original cocktail crafted by the reigning champion of the JAPAN FLAIR DREAM GAME, Akihiro Suzuki (ELEKI). From September 16 to September 30, 2025, this exceptional drink will be available at all 13 TGI Fridays locations throughout Japan.

Celebrating Bartending Excellence

The JAPAN FLAIR DREAM GAME High-Five is one of the largest competitions for flare bartenders across the nation, highlighting their skills and creativity. TGI Fridays organizes this event to promote the flare bartending culture and invigorate the food and beverage industry. In 2025, the competition featured stunning performances that captivated over 200 spectators, with Akihiro Suzuki securing his title as champion.

In his latest creation, Akihiro showcases his flair and skill, reflecting the entertainment aspect that TGI Fridays prides itself on. The restaurant chain is committed to actively supporting flare bartenders and providing customers with new experiences through innovative programs.

Limited-Time Cocktails

The cocktail menu by Akihiro Suzuki includes three unique drinks:

1. Tropical Gin Tonic

• - Ingredients: Gin, honey, passion fruit syrup, tonic
• - Price: ¥690 (tax included ¥759)

Experience a taste of the tropics with this refreshing delight that evokes imagery of Tom Cruise mixing cocktails on a beach. With its alluring flavors of exotic fruits, customers can feel like the protagonists of an action movie while enjoying their drink in the lively atmosphere of TGI Fridays.

2. Popcorn Cinema

• - Ingredients: Maker's Mark, popcorn syrup, vanilla ice cream, half & half, caramel syrup
• - Price: ¥790 (tax included ¥869)

This unique cocktail pays homage to American cinema by infusing popcorn flavors, creating a multisensory experience reminiscent of enjoying a movie. Watching skilled bartenders mix drinks only enhances the excitement of indulging in this fun, creative concoction.

3. Popcorn Shake (Non-Alcoholic)

• - Ingredients: Popcorn syrup, vanilla ice cream, half & half, walnuts
• - Price: ¥650 (tax included ¥715)

This delightful shake offers a sweeter, non-alcoholic option that blends the nostalgic flavor of popcorn with ice cream for a decadent treat.

About Akihiro Suzuki (ELEKI)

Akihiro Suzuki is known as a top flare bartender in Japan, starting his journey in 2013 after joining TGI Fridays. He has won or placed as a runner-up in domestic competitions more than ten times, and he earned the title of the second champion in the all-Japan flair bartender competition, JAPAN FLAIR DREAM GAME. Now, Suzuki also contributes to the fab community by teaching at flare schools, fostering the next generation of bartenders.

His establishments include:

• - COLORSOL QUALIA (Theater-style bar)
• - IZAKAYA からそる (Izakaya-style bar)
• - KOKUtEERU (Yakitori bar)

As a managerial figure at these popular venues, he creates memorable experiences for patrons.

The Future of Flare Bartending

TGI Fridays is gearing up for the next round of the JAPAN FLAIR DREAM GAME in 2026, continuing their mission to expand the flare bartending culture and provide a platform for talented mixologists to shine. Akihiro Suzuki's cocktail menu is just one way the restaurant is embracing creativity and flair, ensuring diners enjoy an unforgettable experience.

To check out the new drink and delve into the exciting world of flare bartending, visit your nearest TGI Fridays. Enjoy great food, entertainment, and incredible cocktails that transport you to a world of fun and excitement.

For more details about TGI Fridays and to find a location near you, visit TGI Fridays Japan.