When we refer to Delhi, we usually do so with the assumption of a unified cityscape in mind. But Delhi is far from being that. The Delhi of Shah Jahan and the New Delhi of British India are antipodal entities, though they occupy the same geographic expanse. Sir Edwin Lutyen’s was known to adapt traditional architectural styles to suit the aesthetics of his era. He architected what we know now as New Delhi, or the capital’s diplomatic enclave, more often referred to as Lutyen’s Delhi after him.

The Taj Palace Hotel is as much a landmark for people in the diplomatic enclave, as it is a symbol of the early Indian modernity, ushered in right after the Nehruvian era. A plush, expansive property, the Taj Palace houses some of the finest bars and restaurants in the city. The Blue Bar represents luxury, sporting an edgy demeanour with its dramatic red-on-black colour scheme. Located along the perimeter of the hotel, the Blue Bar offers you two resplendent views – that of the verdant central garden, or the sparkling poolside.

The cocktail programme at the Blue Bar is equally wacky and innovative. They mature their own Woodford Reserve bourbon infused with a Montecristo No. 2, a shot of which warms up things quite neatly. For some barside adult treats, pop a few Tequila Infused Marshmallows and Absinthe Gummy Bears! An array of Asian-inspired signature cocktails are a Blue Bar speciality – the Asian Whisky Sour uses a Japanese whisky infused with lemongrass. Great drinks are also accompanied by some great bar grub – pick from an assortment of oysters, mussels, bratwurst, sole, cheeses.

So the next time you find yourself in Delhi, go soak in some Ra Days charm and sip on what is the capital’s finest Manhattan at the Blue Bar.

AVERAGE COST FOR TWO: Rs 3,300 plus taxes

Blue Bar Taj Diplomatic Enclave, 2, Sardar Patel Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

HOURS: 17:00-00:45