Meet Tom Eulenberg ‘The Ringmaster’ of nightlife

Tom Eulenberg known to many as 'Top Hat Tom', is renowned for revolutionising the hospitality industry thanks to his 'out of the box' concept venues, featuring world class entertainment.

Having won numerous awards for his service to the hospitality industry, Eulenberg is without a doubt one of London's leading nightlife entrepreneurs. Tom has had a hand in shaping some of London's iconic, award-winning nightclubs over the past two decades, with the likes of Whisky Mist, Cirque Le Soir, Drama Park Lane and Wyld within his portfolio. In recent years, he has taken his creativity, wisdom, and knowledge to a whole new level, capturing the attention of key stakeholders setting up high-profile hospitality projects around the globe.

Let's dig a little deeper to find out more about the 'Ringmaster of Nightlife'.

How has your career evolved in the hospitality industry?

My journey into the hospitality industry embarked when I enrolled in a 3-year hotel management degree. This gave me a strong foundation, as I gained access to some of the most prestigious five-star hotels all over the world, allowing me to connect with A-list celebrities, members of the royal family and people of influence. This was the beginning of my little black book.

Over the years, a lot of my work has been focussed on strategic marketing and public relations, but the reputation I have built, derives from my ability to design, and execute creative concepts that are aimed to disrupt the hospitality and entertainment industry. Over the years, my career has expanded from hotel hospitality and nightclub development to franchise development and movie production.

How would you describe your main assets?

On a personal level, I am approachable with a generous nature, with a lot of passion and energy. I think I have that unique balance of grit and warmth that is hard to find, but ultimately makes me a leader in my field. And of course, I can't forget my iconic Top hat, which has become synonymous with my name.

In your eyes? What has led to your success?

I've spent over two decades in the industry cultivating my "Little Black Book" of contacts, and they certainly add a lot of value to my name today. I have been described by business partners as 'An Engineer of Hedonism' but stripping it all back I would say that being a 'people's person' is the biggest skill I brought to the table from the beginning. This makes me a natural party creator. Other characteristics that have pushed me to the top of my game include resilience, determination, and strong work ethic. These were instilled in me from a young age, my father is my primary role model who has the most incredible work ethic, and never took a 'sick' day in his life. He always used to say, "Have a clean heart and work harder than the others and you will be a success". I've followed this advice throughout my life and like to think it's got me to where I am now.

What do you love most about being in the industry?

The hospitality and the nightlife industry allow me to be 'a people's person' every day of the week. I get to meet and befriend some truly extraordinary people and thrive in an environment where I get to deliver the highest expectations in service and client care. I find this is immensely rewarding.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start out in the hospitality industry?

To be successful in this industry, it takes a lot of grit and determination, but can lead to some incredible opportunities. In any career, we all have those moments of self-doubt, especially on those challenging days when we are pushed to our limit. I think it's important to take stock of how far we've come, what we've learnt and the difference we've made in people's lives, not only from a business point of view but from the friendships we have built.

What are the ingredients to create a successful hospitality venue?

The core ingredients to create a successful hospitality venue is to create a powerful energy through the people, bringing in fun, vibrant, party people, movers, and shakers and of course celebrities, will ensure the party is flowing. Exceptional service and showstopping entertainment are the other key components that will create a memorable experience and leave people wanting to come back for more.

Can you give us a sneak peek into the next chapter for you?

I'm currently working on several different projects, including a new super-exclusive nightclub in Dubai, and hoping to one day open my own hotel, or a hybrid restaurant meets nightclub concept. I'm always planning the next adventure. So, watch this space.