October 31 is a dry day, but a Mumbai pub chain's mixologists promise even tipplers a good time with these drinks
At 11 am, Nilesh Patel, beverage head for Mumbai at Social, is fixing us mocktails. "Non-alcoholic cocktails," he corrects us, adding, "When you mix two ingredients, with or without alcohol, you get a cocktail." On October 31, a dry day, the pub will launch its High on Life menu of 12 mocktails, available at Khar Social for two weeks, and later at other outlets pan-India.
Nilesh Patel. Pics/Datta Kumbhar
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Patel has created concoctions whose flavour profiles mimic alcohol. "For gin, I mix cucumber, orange, all-spice mix and dill. For a peated whisky, I use Lapsang Souchong tea."
Before we try his top four picks, he leaves us with some a sound tip. "It's easy to make cocktails at home using mint, orange, tulsi and lemongrass. Also, invest in good bitters."
At: Khar Social, Rohan Plaza, 5th Road, Khar West
Call: 65226324
Genius
You might mistake it for a Guinness, but take a deep sip past the frothy head, replicated with smoked cream, and you'll dive into a bittersweet, cold brewed coffee. The cold brew, which is spiked with hazelnut syr-up, is the result of an 18- hour drip pro-cess. On your detox night, when your pals force you to drink up, hold this in your hand and they won't know you're cheating.
Cost: '250
Non-alcoholic Gin & Tonic
The freshness of cucumber, bitter tanginess of orange and tonic water don't make us miss our dear friend, gin. The fragrant rosemary eases us into a relaxed mood. See, it's all about getting the flavour combinations right.
Cost: '250
Beetroot Kanji
Warning: You can try this at home. Boil beetroot juice with mustard seeds and chilli and set aside in a cool dry place to ferment. Patel shares that once the kanji is formed, it will never go bad. Sip on it as you please. This one has health benefits and will keep you cool at all times.
Cost: '250
Na-real Whisky
We believe in magical realism, and this take on Whisky on the Rocks strengthens our belief. The brown liquid is smoked Lapsang Souchong tea brewed for four minutes, and the ice balls are made from coconut water. Pour some over and get the same hit as a peated, malt whisky. As the ice melts, the coconut water will ease the stiffness.
Cost: '250
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