Best Bars in India
From homegrown flavor extracts to exclusively local interpretations of classics, these new and exciting Indian bars are climbing the horizon and reaching for the sky faster than you can say cocktail. Meet the top five tipple powerhouses of India this season.
Sidecar India
Making it to the top 100 on World's Best Bars and a Nikka Highest Climber in the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars since 2020, this star attraction of New Delhi cocktail scene boasts robust artisanal cocktails made with in-house flavor extractions ranging from bitters to syrups.
Established in 2018 by Indian Bartending legend Yangdup Lama and Beverage marketing expert Minakshi Singh. Located on the second floor, enjoy your drink here while being entertained by live music the next time you're in town.
Try their new Summer Solstice cocktails crafted using a second flush tea from the Kodobari fields of Darjeeling specially harvested by Makaibari, World's first Fairtrade Certified Tea Estate. For a more seasoned drink, opt for one of the six namesakes they serve at the bar.
Tamil Table
A newbie in the scene, opening just months before the lockdowns hit, Tamil Table is a South Indian twist in Cocktails. Featuring local variations on classic drinks like Nannari Highball and Vasantha Neer, this Goan bar stands out in a sea of exceptional bars.
Set in a Portuguese Bungalow with alfresco seating and a cavernous bar, the place contrasts the western ethos of the place against traditional decor- Madras plaid napkins, ultra large terracotta bommai and the scent of mogra. Set up by Goan icon Sacha Mendez and her chef- husband Karthikeyan S.
Tesouro by Firefly
Tesouro, which means treasure in Portuguese, is another Goan gem that shines bright. Set up by restaurateur Donovan Vaz and mixologist Arijit Bose, this fancy cocktail saloon is loud and energetic in stark contrast to its silent and serene South Goa setting. True to its origins, the bar comes equipped with a heavy weight menu and deliver a powerful punch.
Try their signature drink the Midnight Brekkie comprised of vermouth, peanut butter, strawberry compote and watermelon to experience the essence of a PB & J in a new way. For a brighter choice, pick the sunny Jungle Birds with Campari, gold rum and pineapple juice.
The Bombay Canteen
A beloved restaurant for Mumbaikars, the colorful Bombay Canteen is a celebrated icon of good food. But their good tastes extend to cocktails as well.
With an enviable selection of spirits and liqueur, the best thing about the bar is its constant need to innovate. The cocktail menu at the bar keeps changing every few years, inspired by Art Deco to Indian Talkies. While they retain the classics for when you want a bit of familiarity and comfort but also offer the patrons a fresh choice consistently. Explore one of their original options like Chettinad Toddy with tamarind, fennel and pepper bitters or a simple refreshing drink like Dilli Banta Soda with just a hint of kala namak in a classic vodka lime combo.
Saga
A labor of love by Michelin Star Chef Atul Kochhar and seasoned Indian restaurateur Vishal Anand, Saga is a living breathing being. A modern Indian restaurant by day to a chic evening spot and finally a high-octane bar by night, the place is like a chameleon that effortlessly changes its vibe to match the time of the day.
Renowned for one of the tallest bar displays in Asia, the restaurant is a celebration of India and its different cuisines. This philosophy extends to the bar as well with their 16 signature cocktails highlighting the history and icons of India. For example, the ‘Char Minar’ cocktail has four liquors in it representing the minarets. Try their Thanneermukkam for a truly Indian curry leaf twist in your drink or one of the other or the Amalaka to take you back down the bitter sweet lane of Indian gooseberry flavors.
