If there’s a bar that you frequent, it’s quite likely that the bartender is your closest confidante. Their warm hospitality aside, bartending is both art and science, involving an intricate understanding of spirits, how well they go together…all in all, providing an unforgettable experience for their patrons.
Talking about the Indian bartending scene, many bartenders have gone all-out in their craft. By creating unique drinks that reflect the country’s culture and honing their skills, they’ve earned international recognition. If you love the craft of bartending, here are some of the best Indian bartenders that you need to follow.
Best Indian Bartenders That You Need To Follow!
- Yangdup Lama
- Nitin Tewari
- Devi Singh Bhati
- Varun Sudhakar
- Akhilesh Sheoran
1. Yangdup Lama
A bartender, bar owner, and author, perhaps – but do not call Yangdup Lama a mixologist! He finds the term too fancy and would rather be known as a bartender. The reason? He’s been behind the bar for over 25 years.
His accomplishments are as vast as the number of alcohol brands on his shelf. Starting his career with the Hyatt Regency in Delhi, Lama is now the sole Indian to be featured in the 2020 Bar World 100 list of influential people. He currently co-owns Speakeasy in Gurgaon, Sidecar in Delhi’s Greater Kailash 2, and Cocktails and Dreams.
His passion for travel and experimenting is clearly visible in his cocktails, which comprise unique ingredients such as Himalayan Sichuan peppers and edible camphor. Lama has a strong social media presence and a vast following. On his Instagram profile, you’ll see posts of his bartending skill along with interviews and bartending events.
Also Read: 6 Cocktail Books To Buy For Every Budding Bartender
2. Nitin Tewari
Nitin Tewari aka Mr BarTrender is undoubtedly one of the best Indian bartenders that you need to follow. His passion for bartending started when he was in high school and he decided to pursue it. As of now, Tewari has worked with the most prestigious hotels worldwide. He’s been a consultant mixologist for big names such as Bhawan, Tara, and Ek Bar.
Nitin believes that a cocktail isn’t just a mere mix of spirits, but an epitome of art. To share his passion for everything alcohol, he co-founded BarTrender. It offers consultancy services, events, and also includes the Bar Kala Academy where you can take your first steps towards a career in bartending.
On his Instagram profile, Nitin shares cocktail recipes, tips and tricks, and even alcohol-based trivia. If you feel your inner bartender is asleep, watching Nitin Tewari in action can put you in high spirits and make you try out some of his recipes!
Also Read: 10 Women Bartenders In India
3. Devi Singh Bhati
Having humble beginnings in Rajasthan, Devi Singh Bhati has worked his way up to glory. Leaving Jodhpur, Bhati traveled to Goa to make ends meet. And this is where he got his big break. He was awarded the Best Mixologist of Goa Award in 2017 and the winner of World Class 2019. Devi Singh even went on to represent India in the Diageo World Class 2019 in Glasgow, Scotland.
Bhati posts Reels of his cocktail recipes on his Instagram along with his travels. His quirky humor, movie references, and memes make them equal parts informative, equal parts entertaining!
Also Read: Best Bars In Chandigarh That You Must Definitely Visit
4. Varun Sudhakar
Another one of the best Indian bartenders that you need to follow is Varun Sudhakar. He’s a two-time winner of the national Diageo Reserve World Class Competition. Plus, he was awarded “India’s Best Bartender” for 2013-2014. With years of experience with the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Diageo, and InACan, Sudhakar is now the founder of the consulting company Bar Bundle. When not behind the bar, the mixologist enjoys having a chilled beer with friends.
His Instagram profile updates you with the latest workshops, courses, and promotions. So if you want to learn from one of India’s finest, scroll through Sudhakar’s feed.
Also Read: 8 Delicious Cranberry Cocktails That’ll Energize You
5. Akhilesh Sheoran
A famous name in the bartending space, Sheoran has worked in the finest of establishments. You’ll find Akhilesh’s legacy left behind at Together at 12th, Kimono at The Chanakya, Saga, and The Tangra Project. He was also the winner of the Bacardi Legacy 2018 and the runner-up for Diageo World Class 2019.
If you ask him about his favorite spirits, he loves anything that falls into the deep realm of whiskeys and rums. When it comes to his social media, check out his Instagram profile for a myriad of aesthetics and brand work.
Also Read: Mead Brands In India To Add To Your Home Bar
Summing Up
The Indian bartending scene is flourishing with talented bartenders who keep creating unique cocktails, incorporating Indian flavors, and providing unforgettable experiences. Follow these bartenders and perhaps you could up your bartending and mixology skills!
FAQs
Can I Learn From The Best Indian Bartenders?
Yes, many of the bartenders mentioned above offer bartending workshops, masterclasses, and mentorship programs. Follow their social media handles to stay updated.
How Can I Follow The Best Indian Bartenders?
You can follow these bartenders on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. They often share their latest cocktail creations, upcoming events, and bartending tips.
Are Indian Bartenders Involved In Any Bartending Competitions?
Yes, many of these bartenders have participated in national and international bartending competitions, and have won awards for their skills and creativity.
What Makes Indian Bartenders Unique?
Indian bartenders bring their cultural heritage, flavors, and techniques into their cocktails, making them unique and distinct. They often use Indian spices, ingredients, and inspiration from local traditions to create innovative and memorable cocktails.
