The Worlds No.1 Bar Is Set To Shake Issues Up In Mumbai: An Interview With Its Bartenders

Handshake in Mexico was named the perfect bar for 2024 by the World’s 50 Greatest rankings final month. Earlier this 12 months, the speakeasy additionally topped the record of North America’s 50 Greatest Bars 2024. The 2-storey Prohibition-inspired bar was established in 2018, because of an off-the-cuff dialog between two mates. Over just some years, it has managed to obtain international popularity of its innovation and its curation of one-of-a-kind experiences. The speakeasy boasts a classic decor, that includes a black-and-gold aesthetic, plush armchairs, and stylish chandeliers. The menu exudes creativity, with a highlight shining on distinctive combos and unconventional elements.

_{Handshake’s interiors. Photograph Credit score: Handshake}

Cocktail fanatics in Mumbai can get the prospect to strive its spectacular creations, as Handshake is popping up at Slink & Bardot for 2 nights solely this week. Forward of their journey, we caught up with two consultants from the Handshake workforce: Javier Rodriguez (Head Bartender) and Daniela Jardon (Laboratory Supervisor at Handshake). The duo are set to dazzle town with 4 signature cocktails and pair them with Slink & Bardot’s international flavours. Listed below are edited excerpts from our interview with them:

_{L-R: Javier Rodriguez (Head Bartender) and Daniela Jardon (Laboratory Supervisor at Handshake). Photograph Credit score: Handshake}

1. How does Handshake’s cocktail menu have a good time Mexican spirits like tequila and mezcal?

Our menu is all about honouring Mexican roots, particularly with tequila and mezcal. We showcase these spirits’ distinctive flavours by pairing them with elements that spotlight their character and utilizing methods that convey out their depth. Each cocktail tells a narrative, and it is our means of sharing a style of Mexico.

2. There’s been a rising curiosity in agave-based spirits all over the world. What do you concentrate on this development?

It is wonderful to see agave spirits getting the popularity they deserve. They’re extremely complicated and versatile, and folks all over the world are beginning to respect that. This development is connecting drinkers globally to Mexican tradition and the craftsmanship behind every bottle.

_{Handshake’s Orange Blossom Cocktail. Photograph Credit score: Handshake}

3. A few of Handshake’s cocktails reportedly take as much as 48 hours to arrange. What are you able to inform us about your processes and methods?

Sure, a couple of of our cocktails do take as much as 48 hours to return collectively! It is as a result of we use methods like infusions and clarifications, which take time however actually elevate the flavours. The longer course of permits the elements to meld completely, so when it reaches your glass, it is a complete new expertise.

4. Are you able to share any uncommon elements that you have not too long ago experimented with in your cocktails?

Currently, we have been having enjoyable with elements like brown butter and mushrooms. They add depth and richness that you just won’t count on in a cocktail, however the response has been nice! Friends are loving the daring flavours and distinctive twists.

_{Handshake’s Olive Oil Gimlet. Photograph Credit score: Handshake}

5. Your speakeasy has been ranked primary on this planet. How do you propose to proceed to push boundaries?

We’re extremely grateful for the recognition-it means so much. However it additionally conjures up us to maintain innovating. We’re continually experimenting with new methods and flavour combos, all the time with a nod to the classics. It is about delivering a novel expertise each time, for each visitor.

6. Trying forward, how do you see the way forward for Mexican mixology evolving, each regionally and on the worldwide stage?

Mexican mixology is unquestionably on the rise. The world’s curiosity in agave spirits and conventional Mexican methods means we’ll see much more innovation and respect for our craft. I feel it’s going to convey Mexican bartending to new heights globally.

Handshake can be popping up at Slink & Bardot on November 14 and 15, 9 pm onwards. Friends can style a few of their most celebrated creations, together with the Olive Oil Gimlet, the Mexi-Thai, The Orange Blossom and The Jasmine cocktails.

The place: Slink & Bardot, Thadani Home 329/A Reverse Indian Coast Guard Worli Village, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Value: Rs 4500 for 3 cocktails or Rs 6000 for 4 cocktails (pre-bookings solely)