BENJAMIN CULLIP APPOINTED AS HEAD OF BARS OF RODEO DRIVE IBN BATTUTA GATE

Dubai, UAE October 02, 2025

Rodeo Drive Ibn Battuta Gate, Dubai’s highly anticipated all-American dining and entertainment destination, proudly announces the appointment of Benjamin Cullip as its new Head of Bars. With extensive hospitality expertise across Dubai’s most dynamic venues and a proven track record in bar operations, team leadership, and guest experience, Benjamin Cullip is set to infuse Rodeo Drive’s bar with innovation, precision, and flair.

Benjamin will be responsible for overlooking the bar operations with his unique touch — creating daring, inventive drinks and designing memorable bar experiences. At the core of Rodeo Drive’s beverage identity, his experience and skills combine American vitality with the venue’s defining spirit, perfectly complementing the Tex-Mex menu and flame-grilled comfort cuisine.

“Benjamin is not only a skilled mixologist but also a talented professional,” says Rahul Shetty, Managing Director of Peninsula Hospitality. “His ability to drive operational excellence, develop an ideal beverage menu, and deliver memorable guest interactions makes him the perfect fit for Rodeo Drive’s high-energy concept.”

Benjamin’s career achievements include leading bar teams and overseeing operations at prominent hospitality establishments in Dubai. His notable positions include the SLS Hotel Dubai, where he managed restaurant and banquet operations; The Green Room, where he innovated a new beverage menu and spearheaded venue marketing; and Lock, Stock & Barrel, where he distinguished himself as Head Bartender and mentor. Most recently, as Bar Manager at Swingers improving guest satisfaction through direct leadership.

Rodeo Drive’s newly unveiled bar menu promises a dynamic mix of bold, inventive cocktails and timeless classics, designed to match the venue’s larger-than-life Tex-Mex spirit. Guests can sip on signature creations such as The Wrangler, Bronco Berry, and Golden Lasso — each crafted to capture the energy and character of the American West. Alongside these, the menu also celebrates global favorites, from the Negroni and Manhattan to Mojitos and Old Fashioneds, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

“I’m delighted to be joining Rodeo Drive at such an exciting time,” says Benjamin. “This venue is set to redefine Dubai’s dining landscape with amazing mixology, and I look forward to creating a bar experience that reflects what Rodeo Drive is all about.”

Whether indulging in a shared cocktail with friends or savoring an artisanal whisky, the bar offerings embody Benjamin’s vision of pairing Rodeo Drive’s flame-grilled comfort food with drinks that elevate the experience into a celebration of flavour and camaraderie.