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Sipping stories in every glass—Kolkata’s cocktails blend craft, culture, and creativity
Kolkata restaurants: This season, we’ve rounded up some of the most distinctive cocktails from top venues across the city, each with its own unique narrative
Kolkata’s cocktail scene is buzzing with fresh energy, where innovation meets nostalgia, and global techniques marry local inspirations. From hidden speakeasies to luxe hotel lounges and heritage-inspired bars, the city’s finest mixologists are crafting signature drinks that do more than just quench your thirst—they tell stories, spark memories, and celebrate regional roots.
This season, we’ve rounded up some of the most distinctive cocktails from top venues across the city, each with its own unique narrative. Whether it’s a globally acclaimed vodka-and-tea concoction born from a London kitchen challenge, a smoky Manhattan that pays tribute to Kolkata’s forgotten Vistiwalas, or a bourbon sour infused with forest-sourced nannari root—these cocktails offer more than just flavour; they offer experience.
Expect thoughtful garnishes, heritage ingredients, and an elevated take on mixology that blends cultural storytelling with serious bar craft. Some cocktails tip their hat to ancient tea traditions and Italian coasts, while others evoke the sensory chaos of Delhi’s gullies. Each sip is a journey—flavourful, intentional, and undeniably rooted in creativity.
So whether you’re a spirit connoisseur, a curious sipper, or just looking for your next favourite drink, these standout cocktails deserve a place on your must-try list. Cheers to sipping stories, one glass at a time.
Yauatcha, Kolkata
Cocktail Name: Lalu
Yauatcha’s global signature cocktail Lalu was born out of a creative competition and gets its name from its creator, Chef Lalu from Lonavala. When founder Alan Yau challenged his London chefs to create a new fruity drink, Chef Lalu’s recipe won, earning him the honour of having the cocktail named after him. This delicious and refreshing fruity cocktail comprises lychee, lemongrass, oolong tea and vodka.
ATM Bar & Kitchen
Cocktail Name: Visitman’s Manhattan
In the busy lanes of Calcutta there are today very few who carry on the 250 years old noble tradition of carrying drinking water to those who could not access it. As a tribute to their Vistiwalla’s, we bring you a twist on a classic Manhattan, made with peanut butter washed whisky, rosso, maple syrup and walnut bitter. The ingredients include: Peanut Butter Whisky, Vermouth Rosso, Maple Syrup, Walnut Butter. Garnishes – Peanut Chikki
Lucky Tigerr
Cocktail Name: Jade Emperor
Inspired by the tea tradition of Mount Tai, the delightful combination of premium spirits with artisanal Chinese tea. ‘Jade Emperor’, is a regal infusion of scotch, vanilla liqueur, maize bitter and Dianhong tea.
Fabbrica Originale
Cocktail Name: Portofino
A breezy blend inspired by the Italian Riviera – gin infused with fragrant herbs like basil, citrus zest, and a splash of Mediterranean tonic.
YAYAvar, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata
Cocktail Name: Nannari Bourbon Sour
Andhra forest-sourced nannari root extract blended with bourbon.
Cafe Joy, Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences
Cocktail Name: Delhi Saga
Representing Delhi culture and Delhi Parahewala Gali with a sweet after-taste in every sip
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