Shaken, Stirred, and Googled: Indian Experts Reveal the Beverage Trends Set to Follow the Pornstar Martini Phenomenon in 2025

The Pornstar Martini has become a sensation in India, topping Google searches in the food and drink category last year. This vibrant cocktail—a mix of passion fruit, vanilla vodka, and a shot of sparkling wine—is more than just a drink it’s a trendsetter. Once popular in high-end global bars, it’s now a favorite in India’s nightlife, reflecting the younger generation’s love for experimenting with flavors and enjoying visually stunning cocktails.

Its popularity shows how much drinking habits in India are changing. People now look for drinks that taste great and look amazing and are perfect for sharing on social media. The rise of the Pornstar Martini marks a shift toward fun, stylish, and indulgent experiences in bars.

We spoke with some of India's leading mixologists and trendsetters to explore the future of bar culture and beverages in 2025.

Yangdup Lama, co-owner of Sidecar, Delhi—ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars—brings a deep understanding of classic cocktails and innovative twists that appeal to modern tastes.

Rakshay Dhariwal, the mastermind behind PCO, Mumbai, and other cutting-edge bar concepts, has been instrumental in redefining India’s cocktail scene with his focus on craft and storytelling.

Santanu Chanda, head mixologist at Home, Delhi, is known for his experimental approach. He creates cocktails that blur the lines between art and science, offering guests a truly immersive drinking experience.

They shared how Instagram-worthy cocktails, exciting new experiences, and creative storytelling are transforming the way we enjoy drinks. So, keep reading and find out what’s coming our way this year!

Edited Excerpts. 

What are the top beverage trends you predict for 2025?
Yangdup- I see 2025 as the year of premium tequila and mezcal. There’s a shift toward 100% agave tequila, enjoyed on the rocks or as a highball, moving beyond the usual tequila shots. Globally, tequila is becoming a favorite, not just for its versatility but also for its quality. I predict picante-style cocktails will dominate, with their bold, spicy profiles appealing to adventurous drinkers. This trend reflects a growing appreciation for spirits that deliver both flavor and sophistication, making tequila the spirit to watch in the coming year.

Santanu- The no- and low-alcohol category continues to dominate, offering inclusive drinking options for diverse audiences. Agave-based cocktails are rising in popularity, showcasing the versatility and complexity of agave spirits. Locally inspired cocktails are also gaining traction, with bartenders embracing regional ingredients and flavors to craft unique, culturally resonant drinks.

Rakshay- Agave spirits will dominate globally, expanding beyond Tequila to artisanal Mezcal, Sotol, and Raicilla. Additive-free options like Pistola are gaining traction as consumers value terroir-driven authenticity. Sipping aged agaves neat is growing, reflecting a focus on intricate flavors. Cocktail innovation is thriving, with advanced techniques enhancing flavors and creating visually stunning, textured drinks. Spirit-forward, savory cocktails are also trending, emphasizing craftsmanship. Premiumization remains strong, with drinkers gravitating toward small-batch, artisanal spirits crafted with uncompromising quality and authenticity, making 2025 an exciting year for the beverage industry.

How are bars and mixologists adapting to the demand for Instagrammable and experiential cocktails?
Yangdup- I think all bartenders and mixologists have embraced the need for Instagrammable cocktails, understanding that visual appeal is now integral to a cocktail's success. A drink must not only taste great but also captivate the eye, prompting guests to share it on social media. This has redefined the concept of a "good cocktail," merging balance, flavor, and aesthetics. Bartenders now prioritize presentation, using creative garnishes, unique glassware, and vibrant colors. However, the experience doesn’t stop at visuals—the drink must still deliver exceptional taste. This blend of artistry and craftsmanship ensures cocktails are both share-worthy and satisfying, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Santanu- While visually stunning cocktails grab attention, they must align with the bar's concept and elevate the guest experience. The focus is on creating drinks that tell a story, spark curiosity, and deliver exceptional flavors. Beyond aesthetics, our goal is to craft memorable experiences that resonate beyond the Instagram moment.

Rakshay- While Instagrammable drinks create buzz, flavor and craftsmanship remain priorities. At PCO, we perfect balance and taste before focusing on presentation. Unique glassware, sourced globally, enhances the sensory experience, ensuring cocktails are delightful to drink and photograph. The first interaction with a cocktail lies in its glassware, shaping its appearance, feel, and overall impact. Our philosophy is to craft exceptional cocktails that captivate visually while delivering unforgettable taste, ensuring patrons return for both the experience and the quality.

How is the bar scene evolving to meet the expectations of younger, trend-conscious audiences?
Yangdup- The bar scene is evolving beautifully to keep up with younger, experimental audiences. These guests are well-traveled and eager to try new flavors, which inspires me to craft unique stories and character-driven concepts for cocktails. I would say that we are not ahead of the consumer; we are evolving alongside them, matching their curiosity with creativity. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry, as both bartenders and guests share a mutual excitement for innovation. Globally, this synergy is redefining the food and beverage space, making every night at the bar an opportunity for discovery.

Santanu- Many bars are prioritizing immersive atmospheres, interactive elements, and personalized touches to cater to younger, trend-savvy patrons. The focus is on delivering unique and exciting experiences that go beyond the glass, ensuring every visit feels memorable and worth sharing.

Rakshay- Younger audiences seek global trends, activation-led experiences, and thematic menus that tell stories. For instance, at SAZ Mumbai, a Cartoon Network-inspired menu resonated with nostalgic patrons. While trends matter, authentic cocktail-making and consumer education remain vital. Hosting international bar takeovers and pop-ups bridges global and local trends, offering patrons fresh perspectives and aligning India’s bar scene with global movements. These initiatives create engaging experiences while maintaining a commitment to quality and innovation.

How important is storytelling in the success of a cocktail, and how can bars use this to market drinks?
Yangdup- Storytelling is a game-changer for cocktails. I believe that it gives each drink a soul—whether it’s the inspiration behind it, the effort that went into crafting it, or the emotions it evokes. A great story engages all the senses: you see the drink, smell its aromas, taste its complexity, and hear the narrative that connects it all. When a story resonates, the cocktail becomes an experience, not just a drink. At Sidecar, storytelling is key to marketing because it creates a deeper connection with our guests, making every sip more meaningful and memorable.

Santanu- At Home, storytelling transforms a cocktail into an experience, creating emotional connections and sparking conversations. Authentic stories make drinks memorable, encouraging guests to share their experiences. By weaving narratives into their cocktails, bars can enhance marketing efforts and ensure every sip leaves a lasting impression.

Rakshay- Storytelling adds depth to the drinking experience. At PCO Delhi, the 'Forbidden' menu features 12 concept-driven cocktails with narratives around ‘forbidden’ ingredients, complemented by miniature-style artwork. Presented in a leather-encased scroll, it adds intrigue and gamification, immersing patrons in the story behind each drink. This approach creates memorable experiences and emotional connections, elevating both the cocktails and their marketing. By combining creativity with storytelling, bars can craft drinks that resonate deeply with guests, leaving lasting impressions.

What innovations in mixology or presentation can we expect to see with cocktails at your bar?
Yangdup- At Sidecar, we’re blending old-school techniques with modern approaches. Fermentation, distillation, and flavor preservation are at the core, but we’re using them in fresh, natural ways. Sustainability and mindfulness are priorities—we’re crafting drinks with care for the environment and our ingredients. Inspiration from chefs plays a big role, merging kitchen techniques with cocktail artistry. We’re also launching a new menu in January that reflects six years of experience while pushing boundaries. It’s futuristic yet rooted in our journey, with innovative ingredients and storytelling. I can’t wait for our guests to experience what we’ve created!

Santanu- In 2025, we’re pushing boundaries with a unique innovation that blends creativity, craftsmanship, and excitement. While staying true to our values of hospitality and memorable experiences, this concept will set a new benchmark in mixology and presentation. Stay tuned—it’s worth the anticipation!

Rakshay- Our 'Forbidden' menu showcases unconventional ingredients like MSG, coconuts, and Chyawanprash, creating signature, ingredient-forward cocktails. These drinks are crafted for their balance, taste, and ability to draw patrons back. As Pistola leads the Agave revolution, we’re innovating Agave-based cocktails, highlighting their unique profiles while educating consumers. With a focus on creativity and quality, these innovations are set to define the cocktail experience in 2025.