Cultural mixology

Bar Takeovers are, usually, more than just an exchange of bartender

- Shruti Pandit

Be it Stephan Bussi from The Aubery and Frida González from Aruba at Loya, Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai and Delhi or Alessandro Merlini from Moebius Milano at the Olive Bar & Kitchen or Campari APAC Brand Ambassador, Symphony, taking over Sixteen33...

Bar Takeovers are taking over the Indian bar scene and like how!

What is a bar takeover?

In simple language, a bar takeover is a collab or synergy. It's a temporary exchange of bartenders and cocktail recipes between two bars - international or domestic. It's a growing trend internationally and more so in India where the cocktail culture is currently on a huge rise. A bar takeover helps in showcasing international talent in India and vice versa. Sometimes, even intercity exchange takes place, which brings the local flavour of the visitor to the city he visits.

Ideally, the visiting mixologist or bartender brings his cultural nuances along with his cocktail recipes to the city and the bar he is visiting - be it ingredients or style or technique.

"Bar takeovers are all about an exchange of knowledge, sharing techniques, ideas, and perspectives between the hosting bar and the guest bartender," says Evgenya, Head Mixologist, MTW (bar by Nao Spirits), Goa.

Akshay Chonkar, F&B head of the Trident, Nariman Point, Mumbai, agrees. "Every takeover or collaboration is an opportunity for our bartenders to exchange ideas, techniques, and perspectives with visiting bartenders or mixologists from acclaimed bars in India and around the world. This cross-pollination of skills inspires creativity, enhances product knowledge, and strengthens the overall craftsmanship of our team," says Akshay, who is looking forward to hosting Mayur from Cobbler & Crew, Pune next weekend.