Amritsar has always been known for its warm hospitality and rich heritage. To me, the essence of this city lies in its food – the love we have for it and the love we show through it. But now, Amritsar isn’t just about kulchas and lassi; it’s about Picantes and Palomas, craft cocktails, and an evolving bar culture.
Some places are destinations, and some are experiences – The Bagh in Amritsar is undoubtedly the latter. For the longest time, I had been looking forward to visiting, and when I finally made it last year, even for a short while, it was everything I had imagined and more.
Interestingly, my visit wasn’t solely planned around The Bagh. It was the pure intent and generosity of Anshul Tiwari, who went the extra mile to ensure I experienced this gem. And what an experience it was!
Anshul put Amritsar on the Indian cocktail map when he competed in the Diageo World Class National Finals, the Oscars of bartending, ranking among the Top 16 in the country. His journey proved that great cocktails aren’t just a metro city affair. They can thrive anywhere, and Amritsar is living proof.
The moment you step into The Bagh, you’re enveloped by nature’s embrace. The name itself is a promise – a garden that evolves with every visit. No two experiences are ever the same because the flowers bloom differently, the foliage shifts, and the ambience transforms with time. Yet, the soul of the place remains timeless.
The property offers the intimate luxury of five private dining rooms, each named after renowned wildlife parks: Serengeti, Masai Mara, Kakadu, Oulanka and the bar, Jade by The Bagh.
What struck me the most was the impeccable design and maintenance. It doesn’t just feel well-kept – it feels fresh, as if it opened yesterday yet is prepared for tomorrow. Every corner, every table offers a different experience, a new story waiting to be written.
Cocktail surprises
The bar programme at The Bagh is a revelation. With minimalistic ingredients and a thoughtful use of spirits, their cocktails prove that less is truly more. Despite Amritsar’s traditionally restrained bar culture, The Bagh is setting trends rather than following them.
While you’re there, don’t forget to order Chalo Mexico, their brilliant take on a Picante.
And the food? Full of surprises! There are some things I won’t reveal – you’ll have to experience yourself. But trust me when I say, it’s a journey of flavours that pair beautifully with the vibrancy of the space.
A special mention to Shreya Nayyar. After working in Dubai’s event industry, Shreya returned to India, bringing with her a world of experiences. How it all started is a fun story, but what’s even more exciting is what’s coming next.
While they’re already making waves with The Bagh, Shreya and the team are now gearing up to open another cocktail bar in Amritsar. Plans are in motion, and the next time we visit, we’ll be welcomed to an even bigger and better experience.
And next time you ask me where to eat in Amritsar, I’ll give you the usual suspects – but The Bagh is going straight to the top of the list! Beware, though – it might just hold you hostage, because every visit is a new setting, a new memory, and an experience you won’t want to leave behind.
