Gin is an exquisite heady elixir that is considered to be the centerpiece of the modern cocktail revolution worldwide. There’s just so much that you can do with it. And the reigning champion of Gin cocktails is undoubtedly Gin & Tonic. This relatively simple-to-fix cocktail presents a beautiful paradox; it seems like a fairly easy-to-make drink yet offers a medley of complex flavors when made right. A gin & tonic might be a humble-looking drink to a novice but the added layers of flavors and complexity that it features are always a true testament to a mixologist’s skills. So fellow Gin connoisseurs, seeing that we are inching closer to International Gin & Tonic Day (19th October), we thought it’s only fair that we give you a low down on the best lounges & bars in Bengaluru you must visit to sample the most lip-smacking renditions of a classic Gin & Tonic cocktail.
A place that focuses on modern Indian interpretations of food, their cocktails are no different. They have a signature cocktail range based on ‘Navarasa’ or the 9 key human emotions, such as 'Hasyam' (‘Giggle’- a betel leaf distilled vodka cocktail) and 'Raudram' (‘Rage’- a cocktail with curry leaves liqueur). They also have the largest collection of gins and their gin cocktails are hands down some of the best that we have tasted in Bangalore. In particular, the ''Voyager’s Gin and Tonic'', made with beetroot extract, beetroot pickle, & green olives, makes for an exciting sipping experience.
Other recommendations: Breakfast Martini, Earl Grey Martini, Gin Gin Mule, Crumbed Mushroom Truffles, Paneer Tikka, Smoked Chilli Pork with Sago Crisps, Kochi Tiger Prawns, And Mutton Keema Fry.
Known for its delectable food, craft cocktails, and experimentative gin creations, this one is a definite doozy of a spot that deserves to be on every gourmand's must-visit list this International Gin & Tonic Day! Their signature cocktail ''Pretty Ugly'' is a gourmet version of a classic Gin & Tonic featuring innovative inclusions like blue pea gin with lavender tonic. This beautiful and rather tasty drink is the best-selling concoction here and we totally understand why.
Other recommendations: Merry Pin Cocktail, Tom Collins, Negroni, Gimlet, 3 Textures of Chicken Tikka, Goan Chorizo Kulcha, Truffled Edamame Dim Sums, Puliogre Dusted Squid Rings and the Chilli Cheese & Corn Kulcha.
Record Room definitely tops our list of 'must-visit' places in the city, and rightly so! A haven for music lovers, though Record Room is popular for its vinyl records and fine craft beers on tap, its menu makes it quite evident that this all-rounder of a place also excels when it comes to gin cocktails. Their exemplary menu curates an exceptional lineup of numerous artisanal cocktails and delectable small plates. Their Popcorn Gin & Tonic with cold brew is a revelation we guarantee will knock your socks
Other recommendations: Geist Witty Wit Craft Beer, Blueberry Gibson, Twisted Negroni, Biryani Arancini, Rajma & Goan Sausage Croquettes, Pão De Queijo Waffle Ratatouille and Belgian Pork Belly.
A blend of modern luxury, expansive yet intimate interiors, and impeccable service, Gatsby is a relatively new chic restaurant in Bengaluru that is gaining popularity for its exemplary global spread and artisanal cocktails that bring to mind the iconic jazz age, flapper dresses, and prohibition pours that were all the rage during the long gone Roaring Twenties. Their menu has a separate Gin & Tonic section on their bar menu that curates a host of artisanal variations of the classic cocktail including varied fun flavors like Lavender, Rose Petal, Hibiscus, and Butterfly Blue Pea.
Other recommendations: Signature Lazulitini Cocktail, Gin Hacker Cocktail, Cream Cheese & Water Chestnut Dumplings, California Maki, Pork Chops, Lamb Bolognese Pizza, Crispy chicken Burger, and Silken Tofu Cheesecake.
For those not staying in or frequenting South Bangalore, URU may be one of the many breweries and restaurants that have popped up in the area over the last couple of years. But the discerning folks know that URU is a restaurant, cafe, bistro, brewery, gin garden (first ever in the city), and pet park rolled into one. Come sundown, the place transforms into a high-energy lounge. The gin garden menu houses a slew of artisanal Gin cocktails, making it the perfect place to visit this International Gin & tonic Day.
Red Rhino is the perfect place for patrons who seek comfort, great grub, and refreshing beverages. In the style of a true blue hangout destination, this place offers multiple levels of space with indoor, outdoor, and terrace seating for casual meetups and impromptu get-togethers with friends. Their cocktail menu is innovative and exciting with ingredients like liquid smoke, saffron, rose petals, and more! Try their signature Red Rhino Gin and Tonic featuring a refreshing blend of blueberries, elderflower, rosemary, and tonic to cap off the International Gin & Tonic festivities the right way.
Other recommendations: Truffle Fries, Angaara Paneer Kebab, Tandoori Malai Broccoli, Mexican bean Burger, American Hamburger, Red Rhino Chilli Chicken, Crispy Lotus Stem, Dum Biryani, and Tiramisu.
This gorgeous restaurant offering a rooftop dining experience, delicious grub, amazing craft beers on tap, and an array of lip-smacking concoctions ranks high on our must-visit list. The food menu here is specially curated by celebrity chef Mr. Sabyasachi Gorai and features a delectable selection of Indian and global preparations. Plus, their bar menu is filled to the brim with enticing gin cocktails that feature quite a few eclectic twists. Their “Blossom Sunset'' is Uru's innovative reinterpretation of a classic Gin & Tonic that is sure to spellbind you with its complex layers of exquisite flavors.
Gargi Bisht is an event copywriter/conceptualizer turned writer currently working with EazyDiner Pvt. Ltd. Compulsive eater, book hoarder, dog lover and pop culture enthusiast with an innate love for storytelling. Usually the quietest person in the room, Gargi is an introvert who loves her own company. When not eating, can be found in front of her laptop watching movies. Knows a thing or two about art and literature.
