At a city restaurant recently, diners were encouraged to take a sip, swirl and take another sip, before placing their glass down. This, so they could fully understand the flavours of the cocktails. While they already knew what was in their order, the amalgamation of flavours still surprised them. It was buzzing with people who were unwinding after a hectic work day or were simply relaxing at the end of the week. Apart from enthusiastic cocktail lovers, those awaiting their turn to get a table also began to gather around the bar and enjoy the distinctive tasting drinks.

While diners usually come for the food, they are increasingly coming for the cocktails too. That is a part of the menu that restaurants have been focusing on improvising in the last few years. Now, catering to the informed customer, restaurants and bars are not only serving in-house cocktails but are also experimenting with bar takeovers – a concept where they collaborate with a guest bar team or upcoming spirit brand to make delicious cocktails.