Last week, we sauntered into Yauatcha, fashionably late yet delightfully tidy for a review of their special cocktail event called “Asia in a glass,” which focused on Asia-centric flavours and Chinese cultural heritage. My wonderful friend Jay, a creative visualizer by profession accompanied me on this quest. Despite our tardiness, Maneesh, the restaurant manager welcomed us to the mixology soirée.
Yauatcha: The Setting
Yauatcha, a Michelin-starred dim sum tea house in London, is a modern Chinese dining establishment with a contemporary yet approachable ambiance. This culinary gem offers immersive all-day dining that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. At its core, Yauatcha serves modern interpretations of Cantonese cuisine and provides affordable luxury in the world of varied culinary expression.
The interior design of Yauatcha Bangalore is a masterclass in understated elegance. Clean lines and a minimalistic blue décor create a soothing atmosphere that pays homage to the traditional Chinese tea house. This thoughtful design approach extends to every aspect of the space, from the seating arrangements to the lighting fixtures.
Intricately embroidered Chinese motifs adorn the leather chairs, adding a touch of refinement and authenticity. Overhead, handmade porcelain shades diffuse light softly, creating an intimate and warm ambiance that encourages lingering conversations and leisurely meals. The dining area has the lively charm of a ‘chatter shop,’ which makes one think of the busy dim sum eateries in Hong Kong. The open kitchen concept adds a dramatic touch to the dining experience, allowing diners to witness the culinary talent up close.
The Cocktails Menu
With one glance at the menu, we quickly inferred how seamlessly Yauatcha had extended its creativity from kitchen to bar. Their in-house mixologists created a diverse range of cocktails imbued with the idea of “fresh and eclectic” that were anything but ordinary. The drinks showcased a clever blend of fresh ingredients, homemade purees, and foams, alongside an array of fruits, herbs, and spices. From reimagined classics to fruit-forward concoctions and tea-infused tipples, each cocktail had a tale to tell. The outcome? A contemporary tribute to Asian flavours that tantalised our taste buds.
The Experience
The eatery pulsed with energy, with patrons already deep into their liquid journey across Asia. As we joined the party, we slid into the last remaining stools next to the bar. Dikesh was our man Friday server in charge of attending to our desires and wants. Every cocktail seemed like a liquid masterpiece. The cocktail options on the menu were so tempting that we chose the Tian Shang and Ginger Martini as our first drinks.
Tian Shang danced on the palate with a harmonious blend of floral notes and tart citrus flavours. The gin and vodka offered a crisp base, while the raspberry liqueur and fresh berries added a fruity punch. The lemon brightened the overall taste, while the elderflower foam provided a subtle, aromatic finish. This refreshing libation paired beautifully with Chicken and Prawn Shui Mai, with the delicate dim sum enhancing the drink’s complex flavours.
While the ginger martini presented a bold, fragrant flavour profile, the smooth base of white rum, combined with ginger, delivered a spicy kick. Green apple added a crisp sweetness, while nutty orgeat and lime zest made for a nuanced, refreshing sip. The earthy, umami-rich stuffing of Truffle Edamame Dumplings complemented the cocktail’s vibrant flavour.
After enjoying the floral and fruity cocktail, my second choice was Citrus Martini. The cocktail bursts with zesty vitality. Gin and vodka formed a robust base, while limoncello added sweetness. Grapefruit, orange, and passion fruit contributed a symphony of bright, tropical notes, culminating in a vivacious, multi-layered sip. Jay, on the other hand, gave Earth Asian a try. This cocktail harmonised tropical and flowery element. Mount Gay Eclipse rum provided a smooth base, while homemade apricot compote brought fruity sweetness. Jasmine lychee infused a delicate floral essence, while lime added a refreshing citrus zing.
On Dikesh’s suggestion, we tried the clay pot Stir-fry Braised Chicken with Mushrooms. This quintessential Cantonese comfort dish wowed us with its succulent meat and savoury mushrooms in a luscious sauce. For dessert, we indulged in both options. The Raspberry Delice stole the show with its stunning presentation and melt-in-your-mouth texture. In contrast, the Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse, while pleasant, was less remarkable.
The Verdict
Yauatcha Bangalore provides an exceptional cocktail experience and is well worth a visit. The Asian-inspired cocktails are not only inventive but brilliantly executed, demonstrating a strong appreciation for tradition and innovation. While my personal preference might not lean towards dim sum, the quality and creativity are so compelling that they warrant a return visit. “Overall, it is a dining destination that appeals to both the palate and the eye.” says, TheGlitz.
