Rum, with its storied history across cultures and coastlines, remains a spirit that carries tales of sun, spice, and sea in every pour. As World Rum Day arrives on July 12, Kolkata’s leading F&B destinations are ready with signature cocktails that showcase the versatility of rum while reflecting the city’s layered palate and cultural vibrancy.
Explore these four distinctive cocktails across Kolkata’s top bars and restaurants to mark the occasion.
Ginger Martini at Yauatcha, Kolkata
At Yauatcha, known for its elegant dim sum and contemporary Cantonese fare, the Ginger Martini is a refreshing study in balance. Priced at ₹695 plus taxes, it blends white rum with fresh ginger, lime, a hint of orgeat, and crisp green apple.
This cocktail cuts through Kolkata’s monsoon humidity and pairs seamlessly with Yauatcha’s small plates. The ginger adds warmth, the apple brings freshness, and the lime’s acidity highlights the clean character of white rum, making it a bright, easy-sipping choice for the season.
Best Paired With: Har Gau, Crispy Duck Roll, or Spicy Szechuan Dumplings.
One Bengal One Rule (OBOR) at Lucky Tigerr
Lucky Tigerr’s OBOR (One Bengal One Rule) is a tribute to Bengal’s botanical richness and local flavours. Priced at ₹795 plus taxes, it features white rum, gondhoraj lime, and ylang-ylang cordial.
Gondhoraj lime infuses a floral citrus aroma reminiscent of Bengal’s monsoon afternoons, while the ylang-ylang cordial adds a soft, exotic floral layer that lingers on the palate. Together with white rum, the result is a cocktail that feels rooted in place while offering a refined drinking experience.
Why Try It: Ideal for those who appreciate nuanced, aromatic cocktails that capture Bengal’s essence.
Masked Dance at ATM Bar & Kitchen
ATM Bar & Kitchen’s Masked Dance draws inspiration from the Chhau dance of West Bengal, known for its dramatic masks and dynamic movements. At ₹850, this cocktail blends white rum, sparkling wine, and vermouth, creating an interplay of flavours and textures.
White rum anchors the drink, sparkling wine adds lively effervescence, and vermouth introduces a subtle herbaceous note, making this cocktail both celebratory and layered.
Recommended Moment: A perfect pre-dinner drink to set the tone for an evening out in Kolkata.
Bujurg Sanyasi at YAYAvar, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata
At YAYAvar, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge, the Bujurg Sanyasi is a bold, nostalgic take on rum, priced at ₹545. It combines Old Monk with Masala Thumbs Up, creating a playful yet comforting cocktail with a distinctly Indian twist.
The caramel and vanilla undertones of Old Monk are lifted by the spicy fizz of Masala Thumbs Up, reintroducing the beloved rum in a contemporary avatar while retaining its nostalgic charm.
Perfect For: A relaxed evening with friends and unhurried conversations.
Why Celebrate World Rum Day?
World Rum Day is a celebration of the craftsmanship of bartenders, the global heritage of rum, and the creativity that transforms a spirit into an experience. Whether you’re sipping the aromatic OBOR, the celebratory Masked Dance, the crisp Ginger Martini, or the playful Bujurg Sanyasi, each cocktail offers a unique journey of flavour and place.
This July 12, raise your glass and let Kolkata’s signature cocktails add discovery and delight to your World Rum Day celebrations.