Alesia Rakitianskaia
Bartender, The Fool Speakeasy

Alesia comes from Kolomna, a small historic town near Moscow, where she studied International Relationships before unexpectedly finding her calling in hospitality. In 2016, she launched a catering business that combined food and cocktails  – an idea that was entirely new to her hometown. The venture grew quickly, and she expanded by opening a cocktail bar in the same space used for catering preparations. It became the first speakeasy in the Moscow Region, known for its originality and intimate atmosphere. Her cocktail style leaned toward umami-driven profiles, drawing on vegetables and herbs to introduce guests to new, surprising flavors.

After five successful years, the bar eventually closed, and Alesia took time off to reset and spend time with family. Returning home, she found the war had made both living and doing business increasingly difficult. Wanting safety, stability and a new start, she decided to move abroad. Having visited Thailand many times and fallen deeply in love with the country, she chose it as the place to rebuild, and this time, bringing her young son along to begin a new chapter.

Now, after a year at The Fool Speakeasy, Alesia has found her rhythm once again behind the bar. Her cocktails reflect the influences Thailand has brought into her life: vibrant flavors, tropical produce, warm hospitality and a sense of renewal. Through her drinks, she continues to evolve her umami-inspired style while sharing her journey from Russia to Thailand, one thoughtful creation at a time.