At Flying Elephant Mystical Mixology, every cocktail is more than a drink—it’s a journey through India’s layered culture, crafted by one of the UAE’s finest talents behind the bar. Spearheading this unique cocktail narrative is Rishwathan Kumaravel, Flying Elephant’s Bar Manager and Head Mixologist, whose decade of experience has shaped a beverage program that bridges nostalgia, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Known for transforming ordinary spirits into storytelling masterpieces, Rishwathan has drawn inspiration from India’s rich tapestry—from the bustling streets of Kolkata’s Tangra to the serene backwaters of Kerala—to create a lineup of cocktails that evoke memory, place, and emotion.
Take for instance the “Fruit Seller”—a honeyed, zesty concoction with roasted pineapple and palm candy that pays tribute to India’s vibrant street fruit vendors, whose cheerful calls and colorful carts mark daily life in local markets. Then there’s the “Orange County Coffee”, a tribute to Chikmagalur’s legacy of coffee cultivation, blending orange-infused Indian whisky with caramel and tonic to offer a warm yet refreshing sip of heritage.
“Each cocktail is a page from our cultural diary,” says Rishwathan. “I wanted to go beyond the typical; I wanted every element—the aroma, the garnish, the first sip—to trigger a memory or a story.”
The “Mausambi Hi Ball”, crisp and citrusy with a subtle chili twist, is a nod to Mughal-era sharbat traditions, while “Gulab Jal”, made with gulkand and rose essence, captures the cooling summer drinks passed down through generations. For those craving something bolder, the “Fire Jaan”—coconut-washed bourbon with cardamom bitters—is served with a flame and inspired by the fiery theatrics of Indian street-side celebrations.
And the story doesn’t end with the menu. Flying Elephant’s atmosphere evolves with each day of the week, offering guests immersive experiences that pair perfectly with the cocktail selection:
- Monday: Bollywood Lounge Nights with a live Indian band set the tone for a nostalgic start to the week.
- Tuesday: Forbidden Tuesdays—a Ladies Night featuring DJ Bling and exclusive offers.
- Wednesday: Bombay Velvet Gents Night with live band performance for a masculine twist on vintage glamour.
- Thursday: The Elephant’s Club – Hotelier, Crew & Media Networking Nights curated for industry professionals.
- Friday: Jazz Night comes alive with De Cruz Entertainment and their soulful, sultry sets.
- Saturday: The Elephant in the Room- Mystical Brunch with live band followed by an After Party with DJ Bling, transforms the venue into a mystical whimsical world of music, food, and mixology.
And throughout the week (Monday to Friday), Business Lunches and Mystic Happy Hours ensure that daytime guests can enjoy just as much flavor and flair as the night crowd.
Whether you’re here for a celebratory drink, a soulful night out, or a taste of India’s hidden histories, Flying Elephant Mystical Mixology is where tradition gets a twist—and every cocktail has a story worth telling.
Flying Elephant Mystical Mixology is located at Novotel Dubai Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. For further information, please call +971 54 996 3324or follow @flyingelephant.ae on Instagram. Online bookings can be made here.
