Yangdup Lama, a name synonymous with the art of mixology, entrepreneurship, and authorship, has been making waves in the global beverage industry. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Kurseong, Darjeeling, Yangdup has carved a unique niche for himself in the world of cocktails and spirits. The only Indian to have been featured in the 2020 list of “Drinks International’s Bar World 100” list of most influential people, Yangdup Lama’s influence transcends borders.
Yangdup is best known as the co-owner of Sidecar, a renowned bar nestled in Delhi’s Greater Kailash 2. His dedication to craft cocktails and exceptional customer experiences has propelled Sidecar to international acclaim. In 2022, Sidecar was ranked an impressive 26th in the prestigious “World’s 50 Best Bars” and 14th in “Asia’s 50 Best Bars.” Additionally, it claimed the top spot in India’s 30 Best Bars. But Yangdup’s influence doesn’t stop at Sidecar’s doorstep. He’s also the co-owner of Cocktails and Dreams and Speakeasy, both located in Gurgaon. This entrepreneurial spirit has transformed him into a key figure in the world of beverage consultancy and bartending education.
Yangdup is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a celebrated author. His book, “Cocktails & Dreams: The Ultimate Indian Cocktail Book,” has become a reference point for cocktail enthusiasts and professionals alike. In this book, he shares his vast knowledge of mixing drinks, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian flavours and ingredients.
As the head of Barkeepers LLP and Thirsty Three Hospitality, Yangdup provides bar services and beverage consultancy to industry giants like Pernod-Ricard, Bacardi, Diageo, Remy Cointreau, and Angostura. His expertise extends to training as a Certified Trainer for Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) UK, offering Level 1 and Level 2 in spirits.
Yangdup’s contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed. He earned the title of “American Whiskey Ambassador” in 2017 by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Tales of Cocktails New Orleans appointed him as the “India Attache” for 2017-18, further solidifying his global presence. His list of accolades is extensive, with highlights including being named “Indian Bartender of the Year” in 1996, receiving the “Asia-Pacific 30 under 30 Award” in 1997, and being featured as a “Young Turk” on CNBC TV18 in January 2007.
Yangdup Lama’s journey from Darjeeling to the pinnacle of the beverage industry serves as an inspiration to aspiring mixologists, entrepreneurs, and authors worldwide. His dedication, expertise, and innovation continue to shape the future of the cocktail world, leaving an indelible mark on the industry he holds so dear.
Check out his Instagram profile.
