In a year of thrilling transformations within India’s bar scene, the 2024 World’s 50 Best Bars list has landed with a surprising twist—no Indian bar made the cut. For an industry bursting with creativity and innovation, it stirred both reflection and determination. India’s bartenders have been pushing boundaries, blending skill, art, and cultural storytelling. Yet, despite the industry’s evolution and the mounting buzz at home, global recognition remains elusive.
Indian Bars Raise The Bar, Yet Miss Global Recognition
Despite groundbreaking strides made by Indian bars, no Indian establishment found a place on the prestigious list this year. The awards, held in Madrid on October 22, crowned Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City as the best bar in the world, followed closely by Bar Leone in Hong Kong and Sips in Barcelona. Yet for Indian bartenders and bar owners, the absence of a single Indian name on the list was a reminder of the gap that exists on the global stage.
India’s bar scene, however, has been anything but quiet. In fact, the 30BestBarsIndia recently hosted a virtual roundtable titled “An Annual Update on the Bar Industry,” where a record 48 new entrants were celebrated. Spanning 13 cities, the list showcases everything from chic cocktail bars in metro cities to unique, experience-led establishments in places like Jaipur, Guwahati, and Shillong.
Many Indian bars have also been challenging traditional expectations. According to industry insiders at the roundtable, there has been a clear rise in specialised concepts, such as spirit-focused bars, non-alcoholic cocktail menus catering to the sober-curious crowd, and a distinct lean towards bar storytelling.
These places offer more than just drinks. They create an irresistible ‘vibe’ with bespoke glassware, artisanal ice, uniform designs, and various creative touches. Secret menus, themed drinks, and innovative presentations make every visit a discovery, keeping bar-goers intrigued and engaged.
A Dive Into What’s Next
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Amid the innovations, the lack of an Indian name on the global 50 Best Bars list certainly stirred mixed feelings. Last year, Sidecar in New Delhi claimed the 67th spot on the extended list. Earlier in 2024, ZLB23 in Bengaluru secured a place in Asia’s 50 Best Bars. For many in the industry, the absence of an Indian bar among the world’s best feels like a missed opportunity.
According to 30BestBarsIndia, however, the Indian bar scene is steadily evolving toward world-class status. New concepts, such as experience-driven bars, are taking hold. There’s also a growing emphasis on inclusivity, with bars offering alcohol-free options that appeal to health-conscious patrons and the sober-curious.
While India’s bar industry still faces challenges on the global recognition front, the current landscape paints a promising future.
Cover Image Courtesy: ZLB23/Instagram
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