Varun Sudhakar – Confessions of a Bartender

Where does he work: At Aer Bar and Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel, Mumbai

My favourite cocktail (and why): Cosmopolitan

I like this drink because it’s very similar to what I believe in, what I follow and create.

Various people were credited with having invented the Cosmo along the way, though the two people who were cited feat most often both vigorously denied that they were the ones to first mix the pink drink. Dale DeGroff, King Cocktail himself, claimed that he first sampled Cosmopolitans at the Fog City Diner in San Francisco, and again at New York’s Odeon, and in both cases they were made with Absolut Citron, Rose’s Lime Juice, and cranberry juice.  Dale simply added Cointreau to the mix, and used fresh lime juice instead of Rose’s, when he introduced the drink to his customers at the Rainbow Room in 1996.

What kind of a cocktail program do they have:  We have a bar which requires the drink to be delivered at the earliest , we believe in fresh ingredients and spices and have a wonderful cocktail list which is a flavour tour for the guest.

Craziest thing a customer’s ever done:  People had waited in line for an hour and more, to just to be at this spectacular bar. They even had the patience to order for a cocktail when it would take a very long time. I believe that’s a great impact and for me the craziest thing a customer ever have done on a busy packed night.

Best tip I’ve got: A bottle of Aperol from Italy, a repeat guest had literally tipped a bottle.

If a customer offers to buy me a drink, I’ll say – No drinking at work ! that’s what I say with a smile.

My favourite tool is: Peg measure .Because it helps you to be in a state of consistency delivered, in all your drinks in terms of taste and volume.

The best cure for a hangover is: Water, water and water that’s what i will do, if even that doesn’t work, I will suggest some bitters with tonic water or a bloody mary with some fresh celery .

I’d love to have a drink with: My dad and my brother, because a drink is made even more special when shared with the people you love.

Best drink to order if someone’s on a date is: Speak to the bartender ,with a smile, be patient with him. Ask for his suggestions tell him your favourite spirit and taste preference, he will make your date a great one with a spectacular drink that might not be even mentioned in the drink list or you have even heard of!