Love chai? Here is a list of tea-inspired fusion cocktails to try out

With masala chai voted as the second most popular non-alcoholic beverage in the world, we curate a list of tea-inspired fusion cocktails that put a new spin on the common man’s favourite beverage

What binds King Charles III to most Mumbaikars? The humble repast of chai. Since the 19th century, when the English decided to set up tea plantations in India, the drink has evolved into one of the most popular pastimes for Indians. 

Taste Atlas recently voted the omnipresent masala chai as the second most popular non-alcoholic beverage in the world. Whether it is the desi combination of cinnamon, ginger and spices or the herb-infused potions, tea has grown from a common man’s favourite to a global beverage.

While it is non-alcoholic, the complex flavour profile of spices, herbs and tea has always intrigued mixologists and bartenders alike. We curate a list of cocktails across the city and suburbs inspired by the humble chai for those looking for a different taste.

Masti with masala
If you love tea, you will enjoy this masala chai martini with its combination of traditional chai flavours and vodka. The addition of spices like cinnamon and star anise add that familiar and much-loved zing to the concoction. 
At Butterfly High, Vikhroli; Lower Parel; BKC and Oshiwara. 
Call 9833602445 
Cost Rs 650

Toast to Mumbai’s own
Aptly named 7 Island cocktail, this rum-based creation doffs a hat to the original seven islands of the city with home-made Indian spice mix, cola and rum. 
At Sesame, Hyatt Centric, Juhu. 
Call 8657884964
Cost Rs 495

Butterfly delight 
Blue might not be the regular chai colour, but this butterfly pea sour cocktail with butterfly pea flower tea, lemongrass and Pisco makes for an aesthetic drink to savour. 
At Nara Thai, Ground Floor, Raheja Towers, BKC. 
Call 8355878888
Cost Rs 700

Berry sweet
Try this gin apple and grape julep for a fruity kick with black tea, gin, raspberries, strawberries and grapes with a dash of apple juice to kick off your evenings.  
At Ishaara, Lower Parel; Kurla. 
Call 47483019 (Lower Parel); 47483355 (Kurla)
Cost Rs 570

Slink it up
This signature Slink tonic, which is a house gin infusion with hibiscus tea and berries, is one for the aromatic palate. 
At Slink & Bardot, Thadani House opposite Indian Coast Guard, Worli. 
Call 7045904728
Cost Rs 1,000

For rare tastes
For a taste of rarity, try Sakura’s punch that blends Tanqueray gin, Campari and Japanese genmaicha (brown rice tea) to give you a refreshing start for the evening. 
At Cirqa, ground floor, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel.
Call 9619493344
Cost Rs 759 (plus taxes)

Also try

>> Hibiscus ginger fusion 
At Escobar, Linking Road, Bandra West.
Call 9867911911
Cost Rs 950

>> Sakura paloma
At Mezcalita Cantina Y Tequila Bar, Churchgate.
Call 9930495555 
Cost Rs 900

>> Lady frog
At Therapy Cocktail Bar, Khar West.
Call 8104485576
Cost Rs 600 

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