Mumbai:
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Cheers: Pub owners expect a 20 to 30 per cent hike in the price of foreign liquor. FILE PIC/URVASHI SETH |
Here's news that will keep Mumbaikars in high spirits. Despite the rising cost of foreign liquor, it will not cost you more in pubs. Pub owners are likely to absorb the extra cost because they fear they'll lose regular patrons.
Hrithik Bhasin, owner of Red Light Pub, said, "We will bear the entire cost of the rise in price of foreign liquor, as it is a matter of our prestige." Dilip Joshi, director of the Poison pub in Bandra and Blink pub at the Leela Kempinski Hotel in Andheri, added, "If we increase the price of foreign liquor, we may lose our regular customers."
Dipinder Singh Sachdeva, owner of H20 The Liquid Lounge discotheque at Khar- Linking Road, said, "We are ready to make less profit, but cannot afford to lose our customers. If we increase the price, our customers will prefer to party indoors."
Different approach Many pubs are dealing with the rising cost in a different manner. Kalim Sheikh, owner of Tian Resto Bar in Juhu, says, "We will go slow on the purchase of foreign liquor, as 30 per cent of my patrons have switched to Indian brands, which are less expensive."
More cover charges Meanwhile, some pubs have increased the cover charges for individuals to make up for the rising cost of foreign liquor. Rock Bottom pub in Juhu has increased cover charges from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500, while the Velvet lounge in Powai has increased the rates from Rs 800 to Rs 1,500 in the last three months.
What's your drink?
Whiskey: The price of a whiskey peg will rise from Rs 300 to Rs 400- 450
Wine: A glass of wine with a price of Rs 300 will cost Rs 400-Rs 450
Scotch: Scotch that costs Rs 500 per peg will be available for Rs 700
