This month, we talked to Yves Jadot founder of YJRG about opening his latest New-York speakeasy cocktail bar in Brussels, Confessions. Yves is the owner of several high-end cocktail bars in New York. We learnt a few tips about getting into the hospitality industry and his experience of opening a bar in New York City vs. Brussels.
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Tell us about Confessions? What motivated you to open this new speakeasy bar in the heart of Chatelain?
I am originally from Brussels but left my hometown at the age of 18 in 1985 to pursue my American dream. After achieving that dream, I developed another aspiration: to open a bar in Brussels, specifically in Le Châtelain, where many expats reside.
Confessions is a cocktail bar, with high-end cocktails and elevated bites, in an upscale lounge. From date nights to private parties, you’ll find fresh ingredients, select premium spirits, in a refined artistic decor. Inspired by a NYC speakeasy vibe, Confessions was made by the same passionate people behind Dear Irving & Raines Law Room in NYC.
2. How did you get into the hospitality industry?
At the age of 17, during the summer, I took over my mother's restaurant located in the heart of Brussels, while she was on vacation. When she returned, I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I took an opportunity to work as a waiter in a French restaurant in New York and the rest is history.
3. What is it like to open a bar in New York compared to Brussels?
You might think it’s easier for me to open a bar in Brussels than in NYC, but it’s quite the opposite. When I met my attorney who helped me open my first bar in Brussels, I remember telling him, "We both speak the same language and have the same accent, but please speak to me as if I were an American, because I don’t know anything about the laws in Belgium." The reason I find it easier in New York is simply that I have done it at least 15 times. The main difference is that in New York you need more money, while in Brussels you need more patience
4. What advice would you give our readers looking to enter the hospitality sector?
Don’t be afraid of long hours, and be prepared to forgo days off when necessary. Know every position in your establishment so you can teach or replace anyone if needed.
Since I mostly live in NYC, I decided to take on a partner in Brussels who has extensive experience. His name is Nicolas Vignals, and he is definitely one of the best bartenders in Brussels.
5. How can ACB members redeem their discount at Confessions?
The discount is 10% all night and 20% between the hours of 17h to 19h. Guests just need to mention that they are ACB members, when they make a reservation online. They can also inform the server or bartender, if they didn’t make a reservation, although we recommend that they do.
