Kathmandu's cocktail scene is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a new generation of Nepali bartenders and entrepreneurs who are infusing their creations with local culture and global expertise. Bars like The Old House and Barc are at the forefront of this movement, offering unique drinks that tell a story of identity, belonging, and a modern Nepali renaissance.
The Old House, a new establishment located in a restored century-old residence, is a notable example of this trend. Co-founded by acclaimed Indian mixologist Yangdup Lama and Nepali entrepreneur Desal Lama, the bar aims to celebrate Nepal's rich heritage. Lama, who has put India's cocktail scene on the global map, sees Kathmandu as a second home and has channeled this connection into The Old House's concept. The bar's design draws heavily from Newari architecture, creating a space that feels both historic and contemporary. Its cocktail menu features drinks inspired by Nepali cultural elements, such as the 'Dhaka Topi,' named after the iconic Nepali hat, which uses whisky, bay leaf, and lime, symbolizing identity and defiance.
This evolution is part of a broader generational shift, as described by Desal Lama. Young Nepalis are increasingly proud of their roots while embracing global influences, seeking to integrate both in their creative pursuits. Minakshi Singh, a co-founder of The Old House, likens the current energy in Kathmandu's cocktail scene to where India's was 13 years ago, foreseeing a similar explosion in creativity and entrepreneurship.
Other establishments like Barc are also contributing to this burgeoning scene. Barc, which began as a pop-up, has become Nepal's leading cocktail bar, earning a spot on Asia's 50 Best Bars list and receiving the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award. The bar is known for its innovative use of traditional Nepali fermentation, preservation, and dehydration techniques, incorporating ingredients like clarified hogsplum and spirits like aylā into its drinks. Barc also stands out for its comprehensive non-alcoholic cocktail offerings, treating them with the same respect as their spirit-based counterparts.
These creative cocktail bars are not only balancing Kathmandu's traditional bar scene but are also drawing inspiration from local folklore, instant noodles, and native produce. They are creating a distinct Nepali flavor in their signature drinks, often served in settings that embrace heritage, such as intimate courtyards or refurbished heritage buildings. This movement signifies a reclaiming of identity through food and drink, reshaping Kathmandu's drinking culture from the inside out.
