You know that feeling when you go to a bar after a long day and you just want something familiar, but when you read the cocktail menu, nothing is the same anymore? These days, everything you liked about a beloved cocktail seems to have been replaced by something new. And you’re left wondering: where have all the old-fashioned Old Fashioneds gone?
Even the hallowed grounds of the US Open have embraced modern mixology with its $10 million cocktail, Honey Deuce—a now quintessential summer ritual of vodka, lemonade, and a splash of Chambord, topped with fresh raspberries. Clearly, this season is all about taking a more rebellious approach to the classics. Top bartenders are experimenting with new flavours through apothecary bottles with pedigree ingredients, local herbs, and surprising, creative additions.
The Nod reaches out to the mixologists behind India’s finest bars for their favourite alternatives to beloved classics:
Crave a Bloody Mary? Try the Guava Mary
At Shillong’s The Evening Club, this vibrant twist on the brunch favourite is taking centre stage. This summer refresher is crafted with guava, zesty spices, and a splash of citrus, making for a fun, light option for those who prefer a tomato-free drink.
Crave a Negroni? Try Gresh’s Juice
In Mumbai, Bandra Born urges regulars to ditch their Negronis and embrace ‘Gresh's Juice’. Name-checking founder chef Gresham Fernandes, this concoction swaps Campari for fernet branch (a herbal liquor), resulting in a flavour that is strong, yet less intensely bitter than its older sibling. Featuring mezcal, sweet vermouth, and martini rosso, it offers a sweeter, more nuanced flavour profile.
Crave a Paloma? Try Killing Me Softly
At Goa’s Grumps, this lighter, spicier take on the Paloma features tequila that’s fat-washed with Korean gochujang, lending a unique heat that complements the grapefruit juice. The result is a fusion of bold, global flavours.
Crave a Piña colada? Try The Chihiro
Pune is not where you’d expect beachy vibes, but Tsuki takes you close, with its concoction of rum, pineapple juice, coconut milk, and lime, that goes through an intricate, 18-hour clarification process. The result is an easy-breezy drink that transports you to swaying palm trees, warm sand, and the wide open ocean before you.
Crave a Cosmopolitan? Try Not A Cosmopolitan
At Hyderabad’s buzzy, boozy Jamming Goat, the Not A Cosmopolitan is an audacious departure from the typically sugary original. This version features vodka, vermouth, a touch of vegan foam, and a Cosmo premix. Would Carrie Bradshaw and her friends approve? We think so.
Crave a Margarita? Try Mariachi for Rent
Kolkata’s Mehico is shaking up the marg while also paying homage to the drink’s roots. The flavour profile comes out thanks to the use of corn-distilled tequila, corn syrup, lime juice, and a touch of corn distillate, making for a truly authentic experience. Paired with a side of nachos and dipping sauce, this is a great example of how to celebrate traditional Mexican flavours with imagination.
Crave a Mojito? Try Movie Night
Chennai’s Pandan Club is taking the mojito to the movies. Its dark rum concoction, infused with the essence of popcorn, delivers a buttery finish that’s pure indulgence. Served with a playful movie ticket coaster, it’s a creative nod to the city’s love of films.
Crave a Martini? Try Madurai Martini
At Lair in Delhi, the classic martini goes south in the best way, thanks to the creative addition of curry leaf vermouth, sandalwood, and palo santo cordial, known for its woody, pine-like notes, to a gin base.
