It isn’t every day that you get to sip on a cocktail that is as ravishing as it is yummy. At Zephyr Gastro Lounge, the all-organic, no-sugar mixes are more than what meets the eye. The Crafted Dozen – their 12 signature cocktails – is quite picturesque in their presentation. Invited to check out these beauties, we ended up in the cosy lounge. Mixologist Viju Raj introduced us to their signature list of cocktails. “The Crafted Dozen are made with organic ingredients and we do not use any artificial syrups and have our own inventory of infusions,” said Viju as he pointed to the well-stocked bar alongside glass jars of fruit, vegetable, spice and herb infusions.
Finally, it was time for us to taste. We were served shot glasses of each of them after they were duly introduced to us. First up was the Smooth Talker – it glided down easily through the throat and we did feel a tad bit healthy as it had cold-pressed vegetable juice in it! This crimson mix of beetroot juice with gin, vanilla extract, garnished with basil, hits you in an instant. As the next drink was being prepped, we nibbled on the pita bread served with hummus and tzatziki.
Also served were Wasabi Prawns and New York Barbeque Chicken both of which had a rather strong aftertaste. The Red Velvet was finally ready to be served and its presentation was dramatic. This whisky-based drink is mixed with hibiscus extract and honey glazed vanilla is later enclosed in a glass container of burnt pine shavings. After the beverage is smoked in the container, you finally get to taste the sweet and sour brew.
Next up was the crowd favourite, Bay Merchant. Made of kokum extract, fresh ginger and star anaise to spice up the gin-based drink, it was the perfect balance of spices with the cooling kokum. You could also try the other drinks on the menu such as Alpine Yogi and Two to Tango.
While the former is a piercing blue citrusy drink with a clove aftertaste, the latter is made of pineapple garnished with fresh basil served atop a glass fuming with dry ice. Sure one can’t try out all the cocktails in the same night without blacking out, but Zephyr is an experience enough to make you want to go back many times.
Price for two: Rs.1,200.