With new lounges and bars opening every other month, Kolkata’s dining scene has taken a giant leap. From sky lounges to British-style and Southeast Asia-inspired pubs, the list is ever growing. Here’s a lowdown of the best new bars in Kolkata that will get your evening (or day) rolling with the perfect ambiance and cocktails.
Wykiki Asian Street Bar, Swissotel
The Tsukiji fish market in Japan, the galangal and lemongrass scented streets of Malaysia, the Floating Market of Bangkok, and the Pho hawkers of Vietnam – all these cultures come together in a semi alfresco setting at Wykiki, awakening the Instagram millennial in you. Flamboyant street graffiti and gorgeous glass cabanas that rest on lily ponds dot the space, while an enormous section transforms into a dance floor for evenings. A tapas style menu goes well with the flavourful cocktails, and there are mains and desserts when you want something more hearty. Their famed Japanese Whiskey Sour with a side of Firecracker Prawns or their Signature Pork Spare Rib are not to be missed when at here.
Where: Swissotel Kolkata Neotia Vista – 11/5, Rajarhat New Town
Club Fenicia
Said to be the biggest luxury lounge in Asia, Club Fenicia is a sky lounge spread over a sprawling 28,000 sq ft. From dedicated dining areas, quiet cabanas, separate section for cigars and malts, to a larger-than-life luxurious rooftop bar, the plush seating sets the mood for a decadent experience. Complementing their high ceilings and chandeliers, they have one-of-a-kind sundomes where one can enjoy a nice twilight view. Pair their cocktails like The Fenicia Super Cooler with Signature Charcoal B&W Dumpling with edible gold flakes and Philly truffle or the seafood platter, and don’t forget to leave room for the unique collection of desserts like Asian Wasabi Brownie, Berry Assiette, and the Lemon Delight. Keep those cocktails coming, as you dance away into the starry night.
Where: Godrej Waterside, Tower- I, 10th Floor, DP Block, Sector 5, Salt Lake
31/32, The Westin Kolkata
The highest rooftop bar in the city, 31/32 offers a bird’s eye view, literally. The 10,000 sq ft lounge sprawls across two floors, segregated into lounge, private section, and al fresco style seating respectively. While the lounge creates an opulent theme of white and gold, the private section has a vibrant look with bright red. Grab a plush chair near the window for a breath-taking view, or hang out at the bar as you sip on their famous Imli So Sour, a signature concoction of bourbon, tamarind, and jaggery. Enjoy that with the tender Teriyaki glazed Salmon and Leeks or the succulent local specialty Kosha Mangsho Gyros Wrap. The newest hotspot in town, this one’s surely not to be missed.
Where: The Westin, International Financial Hub (CBD), New Town
Skai
The 4,000 sq ft space boasts of a gorgeous view of Kolkata’s skyline. Their eclectic menu has touches of global presence; their key emphasis lies on flavour profiles and pairing, modern-style cooking, and artistic plating. Dig into dishes like Truffle Scented Edemame Mousse, Activated Charcoal Coca, Gin Baked Crabs, and more. Do try the Popcorn Parfait from the desserts. The cocktails have been curated by Philadelphia-based mixologist Myles Carroll, and it is the Milky Way and Skai Collins that have to be sipped.
Where: 6th Floor, Quest Mall
All images: Courtesy brands