The growing number of coffee roasteries and cafes in Bengaluru has spawned a burgeoning coffee culture, where the cold version of the beverage is more than just instant coffee on the rocks. Coffee addicts are waking up to the techniques used, flavour profiles and infusions that go into a chilled cuppa. With the mercury rising, we pick out the best cold brews to beat the heat, from The Flying Squirrel to Karma Kaapi.
The Flying Squirrel
The Cold Brew Sangria at The Flying Squirrel is steeped in a mix of chopped summery fruits, the most prominent being muskmelon. The natural sweetness and fragrance of muskmelon teams perfectly with their cold brew. And the best part? The melon, like most of the ingredients they use, is locally grown. Rs.165. At Koramangala
Third Wave Coffee Roasters
The Kombrewcha is a special cold brew introduced just for the summer by Third Wave Coffee Roasters. This blend is made with Kombucha (a fermented tea), elderflower and orange juice — a great way to unwind on a hot day. Rs.230. At Koramangala and Indira Nagar
1Q1
Espresso Romano is a perfect summer drink to indulge in. It is a chilled and iced coffee that is made of organic coffee beans, and is blended with lime and cinnamon. It is a light chilled drink with a double shot of espresso. Served in a wine glass, the strong whiff of lime takes one by surprise on the first sip and it lasts till the very end. Rs.210. At Queen’s Road
Karma Kaapi
As South Indians love their mangoes as much as their coffee, at Karma Kaapi, it did not take much time to figure out that they should create a drink that would bring the two flavours together. That’s when they stumbled upon a blend from a plantation called Julien Peak in Shevaroy Hills, Tamil Nadu that pairs well with fruits due to its fruity tasting notes and sweet tangerine acidity. Thus, the Iced Mango Vietnamese Coffee, made with condensed milk, mango puree and the Julien Peak coffee, was born. Rs.190. At Jayanagar
Coffee Mechanics
The Spiced Cold Brew at this coffee shop is an aromatic drink with an infusion of spices like cinnamon, clove, sundried orange peels. The slow-brewed cold coffee is inspired by all things Christmas. The drink has a smooth body and creamy texture. This perfect summer drink is not just refreshing but also an olfactory treat. Rs.150. At HBR Layout