Renowned as one of India’s foremost bar specialists and mixologists, Yangdup Lama, the visionary behind acclaimed establishments such as Sidecar and Cocktails & Dreams Speakeasy, is set to unveil his third cocktail bar in the Delhi-NCR region come mid-2024. Lama announced that his latest endeavor, located at Cross Point Mall in Gurugram, will warmly welcome patrons by mid-June 2024.
Maintaining an air of mystery around the branding, Lama revealed that although the essence of the upcoming project will retain its identity as a neighborhood cocktail bar akin to his previous ventures, it will distinguish itself through a unique cocktail selection and culinary offerings.
“The essence of the Himalayas will strongly influence the ambiance of the new bar,” disclosed Lama, a native of the Darjeeling hills, as he unveiled the concept of his latest endeavor. He emphasized that akin to his two existing outlets, this establishment will accommodate 60 guests.
Speaking on the formula behind his bars’ recurring appearance on the “Best bars list” and its popularity, Lama stressed the need of “getting things right not just once but every time” and how “consistency is very important.”
Continue Exploring: India’s rising cocktail culture: Niche bars thrive beyond metros, offering unique concepts and flavors
“You need to keep evolving both as a product as well as a brand at the same time,” he continued.
Sidecar, helmed by Lama, has consistently secured its position in both Asia’s Best 50 Bars list and the World’s Best Bars list since 2020. Likewise, Cocktails & Dreams Speakeasy has been featured in India’s Best 30 Bars list.
“It’s heartening to witness increased participation from India in recent years,” he remarked regarding the World’s Best Bar list.
Lama noted that not only are Indian bars gaining recognition on the best bars lists, but many Indian bartenders and mixologists are also making waves in the global bar scene, earning well-deserved recognition in recent years. He highlighted the significant presence of Indian bartenders who excel in cities such as Chicago, San Francisco, Hong Kong, and Singapore, further solidifying India’s influence in the international cocktail arena.
“These days, there’s a thriving community of Indian bartenders in the Middle East,” he mentioned.
Lama noted that on the global stage, a significant shift is underway as many Indian F&B talents are transitioning into entrepreneurs, marking the next phase of evolution in the industry.
Continue Exploring: Inflection Point Ventures to spearhead O’ Be Cocktails Pre-Series A fundraiser
