Say cheese. Paolino Nigro, formerly of Barcelona’s acclaimed Sips, has transformed a vintage photo booth into a travelling cocktail bar. Called Drinkabine, the concept brings an unexpected twist to cocktail catering: guests step inside, order a drink and emerge with both a cocktail and a memorable experience.
From Functional Object to Design Piece
Vintage photo booths have become increasingly rare. A few still survive, but they belong to another era, carrying the same nostalgic appeal as London’s iconic red K6 telephone boxes, which have long outgrown their original purpose to become symbols of urban design and creative reuse.
Drinkabine follows a similar path. The idea was conceived by Nigro together with the team behind Origini – Esperienza Liquida, the cocktail bar in Melfi where he settled after years working around the world, including a stint behind the bar at Sips, named The World’s Best Bar in 2023.
How Drinkabine Works
Inside the converted photo booth, a bartender has everything needed to prepare cocktails to order. The menu is intentionally concise — typically between three and five drinks — to ensure speed and consistency during service.
While every event is organised in collaboration with the team at Origini – Esperienza Liquida, the final cocktail selection is tailored to each client. Guests can choose from the bar’s signature creations as well as timeless classics, reflecting the relaxed yet polished style that has become the venue’s hallmark.
Cocktails, Polaroids and Lasting Memories
Drinkabine can operate either as a fully hosted open bar or as a pay-per-drink service, depending on the event. The concept also pays tribute to the booth’s original purpose. After ordering their cocktail, guests are invited to take a selfie with their own phone before printing it in a Polaroid-style format as they leave. It’s a simple gesture that transforms the experience into a keepsake — one that’s as easy to share as the drink itself.
Images courtesy of Origini – Esperienza liquida
