Here's What the Mega-Rich Are Drinking Right Now, According to the 'Butler to Billionaires'

Veljko Pavicevic has a few fantastic titles, like co-owner and general manager of Sails Restaurant in Naples, Florida, which are his two most formal roles. But his unofficial title is far more fun: Butler to the Billionaires. Pavicevic's restaurant tends to attract the upper of the upper crust, giving him a unique glimpse into what the 1% are craving. And he's sharing exactly what the richest of rich clients are drinking and eating right now. 

“The number one item is a bottle of Salon, Cuvée S, Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs, Champagne, France 2008, which retails at $16,495,” Pavicevic shared via email with Food & Wine. As for his A-list clientele who purchase drinks like this, Pavicevic added, “We have their favorite table and a bottle of this bubbly waiting for them when they arrive.” 

Pavicevic additionally explained that 2008 was a special year as the company only produced magnums. And while most of his guests purchase an entire bottle, his restaurant does offer a taste on New Year's Eve, when it offers the vintage for $2,000 a glass. 

Another popular order, he added, is a bottle of the 1945 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. "This year has finesse, not due to climate or terrain," Pavicevic said. He explained that this bottle was crafted by women who took over the vineyards during WWII, which he believes helps give it more elegance. "You can taste the woman's touch — it's what makes the wine so special."

Want to try it? A bottle sells for $750,000 or $187,500 per glass. 

However, Champagne isn't the only thing the rich are drinking. For spirits, Pavicevic revealed that a classic Martini is always a top selection. Only for those willing to shell out, it's prepared with the Beluga Vodka Epicure Noir. "This is a top-level, limited-release product from my homeland — Montenegro," he said. "But unlike James Bond's request in Casino Royale, it doesn't need to be shaken or stirred." Instead, his team uses a crystal decanter to ensure the flavor isn't adultered at all, with a frozen pearl in the center. As the spirit pours into the martini glass, it flows over the pearl, chilling it to "perfection." A 3-ounce pour of this sets guests back $27,000. 

Lastly, Pavicevic shared that he has a bottle of The Balvenie, a rare 1962 single cask bottled in 2022, of which there are only three in the U.S. And the bottle can be yours for $41,000 per ounce. (It's important to note that drinks like this and the bubbly above aren't displayed on the restaurant's usual menu. You will need to special order them ahead of time or be a part of Butcher Private, their members-only business club, to try The Balvenie. But Pavicevic is more than happy to make all your sipping fantasies a reality any time you wish.)

As for what the richest among us are eating, it's something that pairs perfectly with a glass of high-end Champagne — caviar. 

Pavicevic's team serves its caviar with traditional accoutrements, including housemade creme fraiche, bellinis, shallots, chives, and chopped egg yolks and whites. "It's a rare, decadent treat," he said. "At Sails, we serve our caviar with a glass of Champagne and alongside our oysters with lemon wedges. It's the perfect complement." Because at his restaurant, Pavicevic said, "Our guests enjoy the best in the world."

And just in case you don't have the stomach to plunk down that kind of cash, that's OK. Pavicevic also offers an Unlimited Champagne Brunch on the weekends for $109 on Saturdays and $129 on Sundays. Just be careful. Drinking all those mimosas may make you inclined to indulge in a bottle of the good stuff.