Summer and cocktails? That’s like a party waiting to happen. Just like sunny days and ice cream, they naturally go together. And World Cocktail Day? That just added an extra twist of fun to the season. Honestly, cocktails have evolved over the years. What used to be simple mixed drinks are now carefully crafted creations. Every ingredient, from the base spirit to the final garnish, is thoughtfully chosen. Every element adds its own twist, turning each sip into a bold, flavour-packed experience.
Indeed, cocktails are an exciting playground for creativity. It’s all about dabbling with diverse ingredients, daring concoctions, and delightful flavours, isn’t it? There’s a certain magic in giving a fresh twist to a beloved classic, not to mention the flourish of an artful presentation.
Of late, especially, our top-notch mixologists at fine dining establishments and chic bars are constantly raising the bar, with exciting takeovers and pop-ups becoming quite the regular spectacle. Loya by Taj Palace, for instance, consistently serves up innovative, theme-inspired cocktail programmes that become the talk of the town – absolute must-tries!
Celebrated mixologists play a pivotal role, stirring up curiosity and inviting us to explore new horizons at premium, five-star spots. So, on this jolly occasion of #WorldCocktailDay, TheGlitz has jolly well done the rounds, curating a splendid list of the most exclusive and utterly mind-blowing cocktails for you to enjoy. And for the budding mixologist with a well-stocked home bar… why not have a go at crafting one or two yourself?
WHIS-GAL at LOYA Taj Palace New Delhi
LOYA’s bar program has always been a destination in itself and with S.P.I.C.E. Cocktail Program it offers one of the most unique, immersive cocktail experience at Taj Palace, New Delhi.
Loya bar’s S.P.I.C.E. philosophy (Scale, Pitch, Instrumentation, Chords, Expression) uniquely blends music, food, and beverage for a multi-sensory experience. This is embodied in their craft cocktails, with two distinct creations for each S.P.I.C.E. element, aiming to harmonize flavors and musical concepts. For instance, under “Pitch,” cocktails like “Whis-gal” reflect musical high notes with vibrant profiles and low notes with deep, rich characteristics.
Ingredients:
- 60ml Cinnamon infused Bourbon whiskey
- 30ml Honey lemon cordial
- Gal gal foam and edible flower for garnish
- 30ml pineapple juice
Making Procedure:
Shake the ingredients well and pour over a block of clear ice. Top with Gal gal foam and garnish with an edible flower. Serve.
HALDI
Ingredients:
- 60ml Turmeric infused Gin
- 15ml Homemade ginger jaggery syrup
- 15ml Lime juice
Making Procedure:
Shaken and poured over a block of ice in an old-fashioned glass. Garnished with thin slice of Raw turmeric with a leaf of coriander.
Queen of Hills Darjeeling at Hilton Mumbai
A sophisticated whiskey cocktail infused with Darjeeling tea and floral notes, evoking the elegance of misty hilltops and timeless charm.
Created by Pratiksha for Hilton Mumbai.
Ingredients:
- 60ml Longitude 77 Single Malt Whiskey
- 30ml Darjeeling tea (strong brew, cooled)
- 15ml Honey syrup (1:1 honey & warm water)
- 10ml Fresh lemon juice
- 2 Dashes orange bitters
- Garnish with an edible flower or a lemon twist
Making procedure:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add whiskey, Darjeeling tea, honey syrup, lemon juice, and orange bitters. Shake well until chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe or a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an edible flower or a lemon twist. Sip and savour the essence of the hills!
BOULEVARDIER at Italia The Park Bengaluru
A bold, smoky twist on a classic. This refined cocktail blends the warmth of bourbon whiskey with the bitter complexity of Campari and the rich sweetness of sweet vermouth. Finished with a charred orange wedge, it offers a layered profile—caramel and oak from the bourbon, herbal sweetness, and a lingering bitterness that rounds out each sip. A perfect companion for those who savor depth and sophistication in their glass.
Created exclusively with signature serves and engaging in-house programming at Italia, The Park Bengaluru
Address: 14/7, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Yellappa Garden, Yellappa Chetty Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru
For Reservation Call: +91 7795238666
ANNA MAGNANI
A tribute to the Italian icon—bold, sensual, and unexpected. This cocktail blends apricot-infused gin and rosemary-kissed dry vermouth with a splash of Supasawa for a sharp citrus lift. Finished with a shimmering isomalt slab, it’s a vibrant interplay of fruity, floral, earthy, and savory notes, rounded by an elegant acidity. A sip of drama in every glass.
Created exclusively with signature serves and engaging in-house programming at Italia, The Park Bengaluru
MISO SOUR
FOO Brigade Road presents three exceptional cocktails that deliver bold flavors and unique experiences. Miso Sour offers a perfect balance of savory and citrus with Ballantine’s Finest Whiskey, Miso Caramel, Yuzu, Shiso Infusion, Lime, and a smooth Egg White froth, creating a distinct taste.
Foo Master is a refined blend of Ballantine’s Finest Whiskey, Brandy, a splash of Talisker, Japanese Matcha Tea, and Lemon Zest, bringing together bold and earthy flavors. The Penicillin combines Dewar’s White Label Whiskey, Laphroaig 10 Y.O. Whiskey, Lemon Juice, Ginger, and Honey Syrup, offering a timeless, smoky profile with a touch of warmth.
Where: Foo, Ground Floor, Forum Rex Walk, Brigade Road, Bengaluru
For Reservation Call: +91 9742044747
AROUND THE WORLD
This World Cocktail Day, Yauatcha invites you to travel Around the World, one sip at a time. A radiant fusion of rum, Aperol, and limoncello forms the spirited base of this citrusy stunner, while luscious lychee and apricot bring in soft, fruity layers. A fragrant rosemary sprig crowns the drink, adding a herbaceous flair and a touch of theatre. Bright, bold, and beautifully balanced, this cocktail is a toast to wanderlust in a glass, crafted to pair perfectly with dim sum and good company.
Where: Level 5, Lido Mall, 1 Mg, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Halasuru, Someshwarpura, Halasuru, Bengaluru
For Reservation Call: +91 9222222800
TOMATINO MANGO WINE
Crafted by mixologist Saurav, this signature MOAI cocktail is a bold exploration of fermented flavours. Tart, earthy raw mango is house-fermented and blended with savoury-sweet tomato wine and vodka for a smooth, structured base. A bright acid blend lifts the profile with citrusy sharpness, while a tomato candy garnish adds a playful and flavourful twist. Unexpected, complex, and a little wild—this drink captures Moai’s adventurous spirit in a glass.
It’s a slow sip best savoured, unfolding new layers with each taste. Perfect for those who crave something far from the ordinary.
Where: MOAI Hyderabad
ESPRESSO – TINI 2026
Crafted by corporate mixologist, Akash Singh, this futuristic twist on the classic Espresso Martini blends vodka, our inventive black bean and mezcal liqueur, and rich espresso, creating a creamy, smoky, and umami experience. Named for its reign until 2026, it’s a bold step toward the next evolution in cocktail artistry.
Where: KOKO, Ground Floor, RMZ Nexity, HITEC City, Hyderabad
For Reservation Call: +91 9083356361
PEACH FORTUNE
Designed by corporate mixologist for Pebble Street Hospitality, Akash Singh, this delicate, effervescent blend of gin, floral sakura tea, and house-made peach soda is elevated with aromatic orange blossom mist and a handcrafted chocolate coin, symbolizing good fortune.
Where: KOKO, Prestige Icon, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru
For Reservation Call: +91 9022949997
Mt. Fuji
Ingredients: Chrysanthemum Infused Dolin Extra Dry Vermouth, Tanqueray London Dry, Orange Bitters.
Tasting notes: Floral, Crisp, Dry
Description: A refined reverse martini that puts vermouth in the spotlight. Mt. Fuji unfolds with a theatrical tableside reveal as the ice is chipped away to unveil the bottle within, offering two pours from a single cocktail.
Beverage Manager: Nischal Suman (Ranked among the Top 16 bartenders in India at World Class 2024)
Mizu Izakaya Mumbai & Goa
Description: A bold twist on the classic Negroni, the Mizu Negroni offers a sensory journey that balances smoothness with a hint of the exotic. The coconut oil-washed gin lends a creamy, velvety texture, while the kaffir campari introduces a fragrant, slightly spicy kick. Rounded off with sweet vermouth, this cocktail is a tribute to tradition with a touch of island flair—a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and smooth.
Mixologist : Avantika Malik
Ingredients: Coconut Oil Washed Gin, Kaffir Campari, Sweet Vermouth
MOCIÓN at OCHO Mumbai
Inspired by the essence of movement and natural fermentation, this cocktail balances tropical citrus, spice, and depth with a refreshing finish.
Signature Cocktail by Palash Gaikwad
Ingredients:
- 45ml Dark Rum
- 25ml Cacao liqueur
- 30ml Pineapple Tepache
- ½ bar spoon Ginger Juice
- 3 drops Bitters
- 7.5 ml Lemon Cordial
- Ginger Ale (for topping)
- Handful of Mint Leaves
- Crushed ice and Ginger for garnish
Making procedure:
Add all ingredients (except ginger ale and garnish) to a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a clay cup filled with 4 ice cubes and mint leaves. Top with ginger ale and a layer of crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig and dehydrated pineapple. Serve in a clay cup with a small Mexican flag for an authentic touch.
CANDYFLIP at Carnival by Tresind
Crafted by Rahul Kamath
Candyflip captures the vibrant energy and rich traditions of Germany’s iconic Cologne Carnival. Named after the beloved parade custom of tossing sweets into the crowd, this cocktail also draws inspiration from the festive season’s playful spirit, especially Germany’s fondness for beer cocktails. The result is a drink that celebrates indulgence, joy, and a dash of mischief—just like the Carnival itself.
Ingredients:
- 20ml Campari
- 35ml Fluffy grapefruit juice
- 5ml Lime juice
- 15ml Thyme syrup
- Top up with beer
Making procedure:
Add Campari, fluffy grapefruit juice, lime juice, and thyme syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake briefly to chill and aerate. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with beer and stir gently. Garnish with a grapefruit twist or a sprig of thyme (optional). Serve in a highball glass.
CHILDHOOD COOKIE at The Bagh
Mixologist: Anshul Tiwari
Ingredients: Whiskey, Jeera, Jaggery, Yuzu, Fizz
Description: A playful nod to cherished memories, Childhood Cookie is a cocktail that brings together the warmth of whiskey with the nostalgic flavors of jeera and jaggery. A burst of yuzu brightens the palate, while a touch of fizz gives it a modern twist.
THALLAIVA at The Tanjore Tiffin Room
A bold and tangy mix of tamarind, coconut, dark rum, vegan foamer, and tamarind jerky. A tropical cocktail with a desi soul, offering sweet-sour depth and creamy richness. For those who love unique, regional flavours — this drink brings the perfect balance of nostalgia and innovation in every sip.
Ingredients: Tamarind, coconut, dark rum, tamarind jerky, vegan foamer.
THE GLENLIVET CARIBBEAN RESERVE
Ready to bring the sizzle home this World Cocktail Day? Grab your Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve!
Mix this rum-cask beauty into a vibrant, easy recipe – trust us, you will absolutely love it.
Escape to the tropics with the Coco Lime Smash, a refreshing highball that brings summer to your glass in seconds. Featuring the smooth and fruity The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve, this cocktail layers citrusy brightness, cooling mint, and the soft sweetness of coconut water for a vibrant, laid-back sip. It’s sunshine-ready, whether you’re at a beach bar or in your backyard.
Ingredients:
- 50ml The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve
- 37.5ml Coconut water
- 2 Lime wedges
- 12.5ml Simple syrup
- 8 Mint leaves
Making procedure:
In a shaker, combine simple syrup, lime, and mint, then muddle gently to release the flavours. Add whisky and ice, shake well, and pour the mixture into a glass. Top it off with coconut water, and garnish with a lime wedge and fresh mint.
