The idea of taking a piece of the motherland with you is a sentiment anyone shares the moment you step foot outside your hometown. Your pride kicks in when you encounter your national identity in the form of a shared commercial product of consumption. And what better way to experience this particular element of affection than through the wonderful world of cocktails? It’s fun, creative, easily digestible (maybe too easy), and more importantly, the ones we’ve chosen for this list are culturally influenced by India. Here is a guide to some of our favourite cocktails in Bangkok that are uniquely Indian!
What do you call it: Indian Porn Star
What’s in it:
• Vanilla vodka
• Passion fruit liqueur
• Passion fruit puree
• Lime Juice, freshly squeezed
• Vanilla syrup
• Sparkling wine, chilled
• Soan papdi
Where to drink it: Jhol
The original Porn Star Martini was created by bartender Douglas Ankrah in 2025. According to him, he thought this was a cocktail an adult actor would order. However, it was originally named Maverick Martini, inspired by a gentleman’s club he would frequent in Cape Town, South Africa. Soon enough, rumours persisted he was actually inspired by the smell of a pole dancer’s perfume. Whatever the scandalous truth may be, the provocatively named drink itself consists of ingredients nowhere near an actual martini. But in the case of Jhol, its take on the Porn Star Martini is topped with soan papdi, which refreshes the palette and delivers a touch of sweetness and packs a surprising punch. It can also take on a stronger approach if you need it to be, just make sure to ask the bartender.
What do you call it: Nutty-Presso Martini
What’s in it:
• Premium Vodka (Ketel One, Grey Goose, or Tito’s)
• Quaffi ne – Cold brew coffee liqueur (from India)
• Freshly brewed espresso
• Almond syrup
• Pinch of salt
Where to drink it: Moon Bar Bangkok at Banyan Tree
Don’t mind us adding yet another martini to the list. This particular cocktail is an alluring rich and indulgent twist to the classic espresso martini. There is a fantastic combination of robust fl avours from freshly brewed coffee with velvety nutty undertones. Alongside the premium Quaffi ne-cold brew coffee liqueur, there is an ideal amount of almond syrup and a pinch of salt, which offers a creamy and aromatic experience. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and a smooth fi nish, it’s the ultimate choice for coffee lovers seeking a decadent treat. Garnished with locally curated ginger candy and a trio of coffee beans for a sophisticated presentation.
What do you call it: Rooh-e-Rum
What’s in it:
• White rum
• Galangal
• Lemongrass
• Fresh lime
• Daryaganj Rooh Afza mix
Where to drink it: Daryaganj Bangkok
Possibly one of the most refreshing Indian cocktails you’ll taste in Bangkok. This is a brilliant fusion between vibrant Indian creamy and aromatic experience. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and a smooth fi nish, it’s the ultimate choice for coffee lovers seeking a decadent treat. Garnished with locally curated ginger candy and a trio of coffee beans for a sophisticated presentation. and Thai flavours. Rooh Afza, seemingly an acquired taste, is infused carefully. Even as an unabashed lover of the Indian rose and herbal syrup, and taking into account of people’s preferences, you won’t need to be coaxed into taking a few sips from the beautiful blend of the smooth and tropical base of white rum and the spicy, citrusy warmth of the galangal for that kick of zest. This is an ideal marriage between the earthy spiciness of Thailand and the floral flare of India, creating a vibrant harmony of flavours.
What do you call it: Chai Spice Gin Sour
What’s in it:
• Jaisalmer Gin
• Assam tea
• Homemade Indian masala syrup
• Fresh lime juice
• Passion fruit syrup
Where to drink it: Jharokha by Indus
Under the list of signature tableside cocktails at Jharokha by Indus, this gin-focused drink has a unique blend of Assam tea, masala syrup, lime juice with a hint of passion fruit syrup. What sets this cocktail apart is its trolley-poured presentation. The bar’s skilled mixologists prepare and serve it directly to your table in a trolley-poured presentation, creating an interactive and aromatic experience. One of the notable aspects of this cocktail is the very subtle taste of tea, alluding to the well-balanced flavours of the ingredients. While every individual has his or her acquired taste, take comfort in knowing this isn’t going to offend your tastebuds. According to Jharokha, this cocktail is, “a tribute to India’s vibrant culinary heritage, served with a modern twist.”
What do you call it: Nashpati
What’s in it:
• Old monk Indian dark rum
• Fermented pears
• Pineapple skin
• Timur (Indian Sichuan pepper)
• Green apple juice
• Milk and salt
Where to drink it: Bubbs
For a smoother drinking experience, Bubbs’ Nashpati is an ideal cocktail for welcoming in the off-hours evening get-togethers. The initial sips of this drink can be a tad deceiving. On one end, it’s incredibly smooth, which is provided by the fat-washed spirit. Fat-washing is a process where a room-temperature fat is infused with a spirit before freezing it. The fat itself is then skimmed off the top of the spirit, providing a distinct new texture and flavour profile. While the combination of the dark rum, fermented pears, other citrusy elements, and a kick of spice is incredibly delicious, the tipsy level can creep up on you after a couple glasses. It might be the milk and salt that eases you in, or perhaps the bar’s speakeasy ambiance, but one thing is for sure: this is a cocktail that simply cannot disappoint!