Bar owner, entrepreneur, and author, Yangdup Lama, has had an illustrious career over the past 25 years. Yangdup is celebrated as one of India’s finest bar professional, setting the gold standard for spirits and cocktails.
His dedication has shaped the cocktail culture in India, donning roles as a trainer, ambassador, and mentor. Yangdup’s influence extends far, as he shares his expertise through captivating talks, immersive workshops, and visionary leadership.
Very early on in his career, Yangdup was conferred upon as the “Indian Bartender of the Year 1996” by Hotel & Food Service India and the Asia Pacific 30 Under 30 Award 1997 by Susan and Field Associates, Hong Kong. He was also crowned as the Industry Legend during the India’s 30 Best Bars Award in 2021
In 2022, Travel + Leisure Asia crowned him Indian Mixologist of the Year, a testament to his unmatched skills and innovation. Notably, Yangdup was the first Indian to grace the Bar World 100 list by Drinks International Magazine UK in 2020/21/23, a global recognition of his impact on the beverage industry.
In October 2023 Yangdup was inducted as the “Keeper of the Quaich” at Blair Castle Scotland for his continued contribution to the world of Scotch Whisky.
His bar, Sidecar, is amongst the World’s 50 Best Bars since 2021 and reigned as India’s best bar in Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards in 2020/21/22/23. While he’s a master mixologist, Yangdup prefers to be known as a “bartender” at heart, embracing the roots of his craft. He believes that the essence of his artistry is best expressed when he’s behind the bar
