Raising the Bar: Sago House x KOKO Takeover – A Night of Cocktail Craftsmanship and Culinary Excellence

Some nights stand out as exceptional in a city like Mumbai, where food and beverage experiences are as diverse as its people. The recent Sago House x KOKO takeover was one such evening—an intoxicating blend of bold flavors, imaginative cocktails, and Asian culinary finesse that left us buzzing with delight.

A Rising Star: Sago House
Sago House, based in Singapore, has rapidly gained international acclaim, securing its spot as Asia’s 15th-ranked bar on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 and winning the prestigious Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award. Co-founded by the dynamic Desiree Jane Silva, Sago House is celebrated for its creative approach to mixology, showcasing cocktails that are both boundary-pushing and deeply rooted in local influences. Known for sourcing ingredients locally and maintaining a rotating menu of inventive drinks, Sago House has cemented its reputation as a space where craftsmanship and storytelling come alive in every glass.

Their collaboration with KOKO, a franchise known for elevating Asian fine dining in India, felt like a natural fit. Together, they curated an evening that married Singapore’s vibrant bar culture with KOKO’s Cantonese and Japanese culinary expertise.

KOKO: A Quintessential Asian Dining Experience
Founded by the visionary Tham brothers, KOKO has become synonymous with refined Asian dining in India. With outlets in Mumbai and Bengaluru, KOKO blends traditional Cantonese and Japanese flavors with contemporary flair. The ambiance is plush yet inviting, with distinct zones for lounging and dining, separated by an eye-catching burgundy wire mesh curtain. At the heart of the space lies a sprawling 100-foot island bar, where mixologists work their magic.

The Event: A Takeover Like No Other
The Sago House x KOKO collaboration brought together the best of both worlds, offering an exclusive menu of innovative cocktails and KOKO’s signature Asian dishes. Held on December 14th at KOKO Mumbai, the event transformed the restaurant into a playground of sensory indulgence.

From the moment I entered, I was captivated by the energy of the space. The warm ambiance lighting, sleek design, and upbeat electro-hip-hop music set the stage for an unforgettable evening. At the center of it all was Desiree Jane Silva herself, a celebrated mixologist who led her enthusiastic team as they crafted cocktails that felt like art in a glass.

The Cocktails: Five Works of Liquid Art
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the five signature cocktails created by the Sago House team. Each drink told its own story, combining unexpected flavors with a dash of whimsy:

• High Tea: This light and floral concoction of Bombay Sapphire Gin, Genmaicha (a Japanese green tea), and soda was the perfect way to start the evening. The drink offered a sophisticated yet approachable twist on the classic tea break, setting a refreshing tone.
• Sundance Kid: A spicy margarita-style cocktail with Patrón Blanco Tequila, hibiscus, mango, chili locally sourced from Türkiye, honey, and lime. The Sundance Kid was a vibrant burst of tropical and fiery flavors that lingered beautifully on the palate.
• Charge Card: For those seeking something exotic, the Charge Card is delivered with Grey Goose Vodka, coconut, coffee, and black cardamom. Each sip transported me to a tropical getaway—a Caribbean vacation distilled into a glass.
• Pick of the Bunch: Dessert in a glass, this indulgent mix of Dewar’s 12-year whisky, cream sherry, banana, and cacao was rich, creamy, and utterly decadent. A crowd favorite for those with a sweet tooth.
• Beachcomber: Made with Bacardi Ocho Rum, cinnamon, grapefruit, and bitters, this bittersweet cocktail was the perfect way to end the lineup, offering warmth and complexity with every sip.

The Food: Asian Excellence on a Plate
True to its roots, KOKO curated a versatile and delectable menu that perfectly complemented the innovative cocktails, creating a harmonious interplay of flavors.

• Sushi Highlights:
  The KOKO Signature Roll and Salmon Harasu Maki stole the spotlight with their fresh vibrant presentation, seamlessly balancing tradition and culinary innovation.
• Dim Sum Delights:
  A selection of dim sum offered exquisite bursts of flavor and buttery textures. The Truffle Water Chestnut Sweet Pea Dumpling, Turnip and Chive Chili Oil Dumpling, and Chicken Longhai Dumpling were crafted with precision, delivering finesse in every bite.
• Small Plates:
  The small plates were a testament to KOKO's expertise in blending bold spices with delicate preparations. The Broccoli Creamy Planta Bird Eye Chili, Guilin Baby Potatoes, and Lantern Chicken presented a transition of textures and tastes, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

This carefully curated menu showcased KOKO’s dedication to elevating Asian cuisine with a modern twist.

Ambiance and Service
What truly elevated the evening was the hospitality. Desiree Jane Silva greeted guests, infusing the event with warmth and authenticity. The KOKO staff were equally attentive, ensuring every aspect of the experience—from food to drinks to ambiance—was flawless.

The thoughtfully designed space with Japanese-inspired interiors and contemporary accents provided a perfect backdrop. The cozy lounge area and plush dining space created an inviting environment that encouraged conversation and connection.

My Takeaway: An Eksklusif (Malay) Experience
The Sago House x KOKO takeover was far more than just an event—it was a masterclass in storytelling through food and drinks. The artistry of the cocktails, paired with the impeccable flavors of KOKO’s cuisine, crafted an immersive and transformative experience.

As I savored the Charge Card and Beachcomber, I felt transported—not just to the vibrant world of Sago House in Singapore, but to a realm where craftsmanship, passion, and innovation took center stage. While every cocktail was exceptional, my personal favorites were the Sundance Kid and Charge Card, each offering bold and unforgettable flavors.