City cools down with healthy, seasonal drinks
Mango madness, a signature summer drink with mango pulp and sesame seeds. Pic: Anindya Saha
From refreshing, low-sugar concoctions to the undisputed reign of the magnificent mango, Kolkata's cafes and restaurants are stirring up delightful beverages to beat the heat while keeping health and taste in perfect harmony.
Think house-made coolers, fruity elixirs and seasonal blends – there's something for every palate. CT speaks to them to find out what Kolkata is drinking to beat the heat.
Guilt-free sips
Kolkata summers are pushing people towards purpose-driven drinks. 'Gen Z and Millennials want drinks that hydrate and energise,' says Vikram Khinwasara, co-founder, The Yellow Straw. Sougata Halder, executive chef, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge echoes: 'There is a growing demand for low-sugar options.'
'Our fresh juices are mostly without added sugar,' adds Aayushi Bajaj, founder, Pinkk Sugars. 'They're a refreshing and wholesome choice.
' 'Organic and fresh ingredients are in high demand this season,' says Suman Burman.
Mango madness, a signature summer drink with mango pulp and sesame seeds
40% surge in mango-based beverage sales is seen during peak summer months
Patrons are looking for refreshing robust aromatic drinks. We are using Kasundi in one of our drinks as a nostalgic ingredient. It is something that is used in almost every house in Kolkata
– Suman Burman, manager, SKAI
Rich in electrolytes and natural salts, aam panna helps prevent dehydration and heatstroke
Regional mangoes, modern twists
Vikram reveals that his team sources regional mango varieties like Langda and Himsagar, to bring authenticity to the beverage. He says, 'Our mango shake is a tribute to a traditional Marwari recipe: Aam Ras. We use real mango pulp to keep the essence intact.' The mango obsession doesn't stop there. 'We have our summer faves such as the mango chilli drink,' said Prateek Kayan, co-founder, Motherland. 'We also do a fancy version of Bel Sherbet at the café,' he added.
There's nothing quite like a seasonal shake to beat the summer heat. When the temperatures rise, I find myself constantly craving something that's not just cooling, but also flavourful and a little sweet– Dolly Singh, model
Customers are leaning towards light, refreshing flavours –think citrus, mint, watermelon, and subtle spice. Ingredients like gondhoraj lebu, fresh berries, and herbal infusions are especially popular– Chef Sougata Halder
Five flavours Kolkata cannot get enough of
Gondhoraj Ghol
Mango shake and Lassi
Mint lemonade
Aam Panna
Watemelon juices and mixes
Model: Dolly Singh
Pics: Anindya Saha
Location: SKAI
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
8 hours ago
- Indian Express
Why Gen Z is choosing sobriety and what it means for drinking culture
If you still think being the life of parties requires a drink in hand, Gen Z has entered the chat—and they're proving otherwise. More and more young adults are choosing to skip the booze, not because of strict rules or financial struggles, but simply because 'they don't feel like it'. Unlike previous generations, for whom drinking has been a rite of passage, Gen Z is not just rejecting alcohol; they're also rewriting social norms. Having said that, sobriety is not about making a bold statement for many of them, but rather just another lifestyle choice. Data backs up this shift. The Conversation has even called Gen Z 'the soberest generation.' In 2023, only 18-20 per cent of Americans under 28 said they regularly drank alcohol, according to Statista. A 2024 UK study found that consumers aged 20 to 24 are nearly half as likely to prioritise spending on alcoholic beverages compared to previous generations. So, why are they ditching alcohol? Is it about wellness, rebellion, or simply shifting priorities? We spoke to young Indians to understand if they too are following their Western counterparts—and what this means for the future of drinking culture. For Ayushi, 26, drinking was never a big part of her life, and now it's barely there. 'It doesn't taste good, and it doesn't make my body feel good,' she said. No dramatic reason. No tragic incident. No doctor's orders. Just zero interest in drinking. For Tanveer, 23, and Sanchita, 19, it's a similar story. They do drink once in a while, but the idea that alcohol is essential for fun? Hard pass. Mahima, 22, said, 'I can be free, fun, and the life of the party—all while being sober.' A teetotaller for spiritual reasons, she never felt the need for alcohol to enjoy herself. When one night out costs as much as a short trip, many young people are choosing experiences over drinks. For Namitha (27), alcohol is just another unnecessary expense. 'Expensive cocktails? No thanks. I'd rather spend that money on travel or trying new cuisines,' she said. Sanchita, who drinks occasionally, noted cost as a big factor:'Drinking every weekend adds up, and it's just not worth it for something I don't even enjoy that much.' Sabhyata Goswami, clinical psychologist from Lissun, a mental health startup, pointed out the shifting family dynamics as reasons too: It's not news that alcohol, in any quantity, is bad for health. For Priyanshu, 23, fitness is a big reason to stay mostly sober. 'I want to stay physically and mentally healthy. Alcohol doesn't fit into that,' he said. Lujain, 22, avoids drinking due to her family's history of diabetes and heart issues. Add PCOS to the mix; alcohol becomes a no-go for her. Gen Z's awareness of mental health is also shaping their drinking habits, according to Goswami. 'Many young people are choosing therapy over alcohol to cope with stress. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z is open about anxiety and depression, reducing the likelihood of using alcohol as self-medication. However, some turn to other substances like vapes or designer drugs instead,' she said. Of course, not drinking still comes with its fair share of 'Arrey yaar, ek drink le lo (Come on, have one drink)' moments. For Priyanshu, peer pressure was real at first: 'I felt awkward when my friends said, 'Come on, just one drink!' Some even distanced themselves because I didn't drink.' Mahima dealt with the classic 'Ek drink se kuch nahi hota (Nothing happens because of just one drink)' arguments. But over time, people accepted her choice. Ayushi put it bluntly: 'People who pressure you to drink aren't really your friends. I just excuse myself until they get the point.' According to Pranay Aggarwal, sociologist and director at IAS Gurukul, Gen Z's rejection of alcohol is a noticeable trend in India. He attributes it to: 'Unlike Millennials, who embraced party culture, Gen Z is more interested in self-care and alternative socialising options like gaming parlours, cafés, and outdoor activities,' said Aggarwal. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok promote wellness, mindfulness, and sober curiosity, according to Aggarwal. But, he also noted that online trends can reinforce drinking culture, keeping peer pressure alive in different ways. Drinking is, somehow, deeply ingrained in corporate culture. Team outings, client meetings, weekend parties—alcohol is everywhere. For Namitha, resistance came mostly from colleagues over 40. 'They say things like 'This is the age to drink and enjoy life!' Some even joke, 'Yeh kaise logon ko hire kiya hai (What kind of people have they hired)?'' Ayushi agreed that corporate culture encourages drinking, but she never felt the need to fit in. Tanveer avoids drinking at corporate events altogether. Lujain dodges the pressure with excuses that range from,'I have an allergy' to 'Dharma bhrasht ho jaayega (My faith will be corrupted).' Gen Z has effectively dismantled the 'drinking = fun' equation, embracing sober socialising. Unlike Millennials, who normalised partying and social drinking, Gen Z prioritises personal well-being. Whether it's for health, money, personal values, or just pure disinterest, this generation is stepping away from drinking culture—and they don't care if you have a problem with it. According to Aggarwal, previous generations saw wellness as an afterthought—Gen Z has made it mainstream. 'Their lifestyle choices are accelerating the normalisation of sobriety in a way society wasn't expecting,' he said. So, the next time someone raises an eyebrow when you say 'I don't drink,' just do what Mahima does: 'Smile, sip your soft drink, and have the time of your life—hangover-free.'
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
City cools down with healthy, seasonal drinks
Mango madness, a signature summer drink with mango pulp and sesame seeds. Pic: Anindya Saha From refreshing, low-sugar concoctions to the undisputed reign of the magnificent mango, Kolkata's cafes and restaurants are stirring up delightful beverages to beat the heat while keeping health and taste in perfect harmony. Think house-made coolers, fruity elixirs and seasonal blends – there's something for every palate. CT speaks to them to find out what Kolkata is drinking to beat the heat. Guilt-free sips Kolkata summers are pushing people towards purpose-driven drinks. 'Gen Z and Millennials want drinks that hydrate and energise,' says Vikram Khinwasara, co-founder, The Yellow Straw. Sougata Halder, executive chef, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge echoes: 'There is a growing demand for low-sugar options.' 'Our fresh juices are mostly without added sugar,' adds Aayushi Bajaj, founder, Pinkk Sugars. 'They're a refreshing and wholesome choice. ' 'Organic and fresh ingredients are in high demand this season,' says Suman Burman. Mango madness, a signature summer drink with mango pulp and sesame seeds 40% surge in mango-based beverage sales is seen during peak summer months Patrons are looking for refreshing robust aromatic drinks. We are using Kasundi in one of our drinks as a nostalgic ingredient. It is something that is used in almost every house in Kolkata – Suman Burman, manager, SKAI Rich in electrolytes and natural salts, aam panna helps prevent dehydration and heatstroke Regional mangoes, modern twists Vikram reveals that his team sources regional mango varieties like Langda and Himsagar, to bring authenticity to the beverage. He says, 'Our mango shake is a tribute to a traditional Marwari recipe: Aam Ras. We use real mango pulp to keep the essence intact.' The mango obsession doesn't stop there. 'We have our summer faves such as the mango chilli drink,' said Prateek Kayan, co-founder, Motherland. 'We also do a fancy version of Bel Sherbet at the café,' he added. There's nothing quite like a seasonal shake to beat the summer heat. When the temperatures rise, I find myself constantly craving something that's not just cooling, but also flavourful and a little sweet– Dolly Singh, model Customers are leaning towards light, refreshing flavours –think citrus, mint, watermelon, and subtle spice. Ingredients like gondhoraj lebu, fresh berries, and herbal infusions are especially popular– Chef Sougata Halder Five flavours Kolkata cannot get enough of Gondhoraj Ghol Mango shake and Lassi Mint lemonade Aam Panna Watemelon juices and mixes Model: Dolly Singh Pics: Anindya Saha Location: SKAI
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Loewe's Tomato Clutch is the most absurd bag of the season; here's why
(Image Credits: Loewe website) Luxury label Loewe has always thrived on a mix of aptitude, irreverence, and pure whimsy. It's a brand that doesn't just follow the zeitgeist, it bends it. Known for pushing boundaries with a wink, Loewe's latest viral moment is a perfect case in point: the Tomato Clutch. Once dismissed as 'absurd,' it's now basking in the fashion limelight, and yes, owning it. A part of the Paula's Ibiza 2025 collection, this summer fruit-inspired accessory is less of a bag and more of a cultural reset. With its glossy, plump shape and high-fashion absurdity, it feels like the spiritual cousin of the viral Labubu Doll, tailored for a Gen Z audience fluent in memes, irony, and designer drops. Like most great internet stories, this one began with a tweet. Back in June 2024, an X (formerly Twitter) user shared a photo of a shiny red heirloom tomato. Another user replied, 'This tomato is so Loewe I can't explain it.' And just like that, a meme was born. The resemblance between the oddly perfect tomato and Loewe's offbeat design aesthetic was too good to ignore and clearly, Jonathan Anderson agreed. From meme to reality Within weeks, Loewe's creative director Jonathan Anderson responded with a short video unveiling the Tomato Clutch. The caption? 'Loewe meme to reality.' And honestly, no notes. Made from a moulded metal frame covered in nappa lambskin, the bag captures the exact ribbed texture and curves of a real tomato, blurring the line between surrealism and craftsmanship. There's a golden leafy crown on top, which functions as both a lock and a handle, plus a long chain that transforms it into a chic sling. The whole piece is unapologetically weird and incredibly beautiful. It's design with a sense of humour, without compromising on luxury. The Tomato Clutch is more than a novelty item. It's a commentary on the way fashion and internet culture now feed off each other in real time. It shows how brands like Loewe aren't just passively observing social trends - they're jumping in, laughing along, and then translating the punchline into a five-star runway moment. Anderson's move from meme to market wasn't just fast, it was intentional. In an era where virality is currency and irony is style, he managed to turn a fruit joke into one of the most talked-about accessories of the year. (Image Credits: Loewe website) Sure, it's shaped like a tomato. But the Tomato Clutch is also surprisingly wearable, thanks to its compact size and luxe detailing. Whether paired with linen for a breezy vacation look or tucked under your arm at a gallery opening, it gives any outfit a bit of eccentric elegance. Plus, in a world where most It bags end up looking the same, this one's got actual personality. And that's something fashion has been craving for a while. The Tomato Clutch feels like a moment - a cheeky, clever reminder that fashion doesn't have to take itself too seriously to be spectacular. It's playful, poetic, and proof that inspiration really can come from anywhere, even a grocery aisle. 'White Lotus' Season 3 Leaves Fans Screaming, Disturbed And Confused | Here's Why So what's next? A Loewe baguette (yes, the bread)? A kale leaf tote? At this point, the brand has proven it can take anything, anything and turn it into an object of covetable cool. Got a weird idea that feels so Loewe you can't explain it? Don't be surprised if you see it on the runway next season. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
