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Mixology is a curious craft. Part science, part art and always an adventure. For the team at Handshake in New Mexico, it's a craft they’ve honed to become the top-ranked bar in the world as per World’s 50 Best Bars. Started in 2018, Handshake was born from a casual conversation between two friends and their vision for creating a unique experience for cocktail lovers quickly brought them recognition on a global level.
With expertly crafted cocktails and an atmosphere inspired by the Prohibition Era of the 1920s, they have curated an experience that balances quiet luxury with clean minimalism, an ethos echoed by their upcoming destination in Mumbai. For two days in November, the team of Handshake will be hosting a takeover at Slink & Bardot – Mumbai’s own iconic speakeasy – for a collaboration of cocktail artistry with four of Handshake’s signature cocktails.
With a selection of tequila from Don Julio, the Mexi-Thai combines Don Julio Blanco with coconut oil, Makrut leaves, and cherry tomato water, finished with basil oil. The Olive Oil Gimlet mixes the same tequila with olive oil, Lillet Blanc, and green apple juice. Meanwhile, the fragrant Orange Blossom uses Don Julio Reposado with jasmine tea, vanilla, and orange blossom for a creamy milk punch; and the Jasmine blends Don Julio Blanco with jasmine tea and lemon in another refreshing milk punch variation.
The two mixology masters making the journey from New Mexico to Mumbai are Head Bartender Javier Rodríguez and Daniela Jardon, who quickly rose from bartender to Laboratory Manager at Handshake, where she experiments with innovative flavours and techniques. This dynamic duo will be bringing their expertise to the bar this week and ahead of the exclusive event, we caught up with them to learn more about the secrets behind helming the World’s Best Bar.
Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind Handshake’s signature cocktails and the process that goes into crafting them?
Javier Rodríguez: Our cocktails are a love letter to the vibrant flavours of local ingredients and the rhythm of the seasons. Every drink we make is crafted with heart, balancing taste and presentation like the best kind of fiesta! We want each sip to feel like a celebration.
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From biology to mixology – how has your background influenced your approach to cocktail creation?
JR: My background in biology gives me a bit of a mad scientist edge in cocktail creation. I understand how flavours interact, which lets me play around and surprise people. It’s like cooking with love but with a twist!
What are the essential elements you consider when designing a new cocktail?
JR: For me, it’s all about balance, freshness, and a bit of a "wow" factor! Presentation is key—every cocktail should look as good as it tastes. But most importantly, it has to give people a moment they’ll remember with every sip.
What has been your most memorable experience as Head Bartender at Handshake so far?
JR: Creating special cocktails for our events is unforgettable. Watching guests’ faces light up when they try something unique we crafted—it's like sharing a piece of my culture and heart with them. That’s the magic for me.
What are the biggest trends in cocktail-making that have excited you this year?
JR: Sustainability is huge this year—local ingredients, minimising waste, and really respecting what we use. And bold, unexpected flavours are everywhere, pushing us to think creatively and bring a little taste of the kitchen’s adventure into each glass!
Daniela Jardon: Lately, I’ve been having a blast with smoked fruits and spicy flavours. One of my favourites is a cocktail with smoked pineapple and a chilli-infused tequila—it’s got that perfect kick, just enough to wake you up!
What’s your favourite ingredient to work with at the moment, and how do you incorporate it into a drink?
DJ: Right now, I’m obsessed with cucumber. It’s so crisp and refreshing! I love muddling it with fresh mint, gin, and a hit of lime juice. It’s like a cool breeze on a warm night, perfect for unwinding.
Can you give us a glimpse into how you maintain consistency with such intricate cocktails when preparing them at a new location like Slink & Bardot?
DJ: Consistency is king. We follow our SOPs to the letter, and training is key—every step is measured carefully. Whether in Mumbai or Mexico City, each drink has to carry the same flavour and love. It’s all about the craft.
What excites you the most about bringing Handshake’s cocktails to an audience in Mumbai?
DJ: Mumbai’s culture is so rich, and I can’t wait to see how the people here respond to our flavours. It’s a chance to bring a bit of our world to theirs and maybe spark some new ideas along the way.
If you could describe Handshake’s cocktail experience in three words, what would they be, and why?
DJ: Creative, Bold, Fun! Each drink is a piece of art—creative in flavour, bold in taste, and always made to bring a smile. Like any good fiesta, it’s all about joy.
Address: Thadani House 329/A Opposite Indian Coast Guard Worli Village, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400030
Timings: 14th and 15th November, 8 pm onwards
Cost per person: ₹4,500.00 (3 cocktails), ₹6,000 (4 cocktails)