Akbar

Superior, authentically sourced, exotic ingredients and a professional approach attract a neat, mainstream clientele to this alcoved basement bar beneath the upscale Red Fort Indian restaurant. Cocktails (£7) involve imaginatively muddled spirits (raisin-infused Woodford Reserve in the Great Mughal, date-macerated Havana three-year-old in the Shahad, raisin-infused cognac in the Raisin d’Etre) or use of ginger, pomegranate, watermelon, passionfruit and lemongrass. There are hints of rosewater and dusts of nutmeg, own-made palm and mango syrup. Each of the three dozen cocktails is concocted with the same care and flair as the equally superior bar snacks (spicy minced lamb and pomegranate, anyone?). Bottled Kingfisher beer awaits traditionalists, five fresh fruit lassis (£5) the non-drinkers. The DJ decks are getting more use these days.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008

Services:

Available for hire: Restaurant
Function room: Bar available for hire
Music: DJs 8pm Thur-Sat; free
TV: big screen

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