William J. Tarling

1904–1998

One of the most famous English bartenders; co-founded the UKBG

William Tarling was known as the head bartender of the Café Royal, London, a grand and fashionable 19th Century restaurant in Picadilly that lasted until 2008. In 1933, Tarling co-founded the UKBG with his counterpart at the Savoy, Harry Craddock. In 1937, Tarling produced the Café Royal Cocktail Book, a substantial recipe book of the day, and also a commemoration of the coronation of George VI. Tarling later served as UKBG president—circa 1951—and later co-founded the International Bartenders Association (I.B.A.), serving as its first president.