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Shaking Up the Scene: Navjot Singh’s Passionate Pursuit of Beverage Art

  • Name: Navjot Singh
  • Instagram: @the_baldbartender
  • Favorite Cocktail: Daiquiri
  • Favorite Non-alcoholic Drink: Thums Up

In Delhi’s vibrant cocktail scene, Navjot Singh shines as the Director of Beverages at Lair Cocktail Bar.

His journey into the beverage industry is as unique as it is inspiring, shaped by a background rooted in the army and farming. Coming from a family involved in both defense and agriculture, Navjot grew up immersed in discipline and hard work.

Navjot initially dreamed of becoming a cricketer, but fate took him in a different direction.

It was rum that ignited his passion for beverages, a curiosity sparked by the variety of rums his father and grandfather brought home from the army canteen. This fascination led him to enroll at IHM Gurdaspur, where he was immediately drawn to beverages. His path was clear: bartending was his calling.

At just 22, Navjot took on his first major challenge as a bar supervisor at Clock Tower in Gurgaon, where he learned through hands-on experience and occasional mistakes. “I did everything on my own, and my zeal was unmatched,” he recalls, crediting this period with teaching him the importance of resilience and continuous learning.

A turning point in his career came under the mentorship of Luca Cinalli, a renowned name in cocktail innovation. Navjot transitioned from knowing only the basics to mastering modern classics, which became his specialty. His growth during this time opened new doors in the bartending world, particularly between 2019-20.

His experience abroad, particularly in Vancouver, added a new dimension to his skills. “Managing people and resources was different there,” he notes, contrasting the structured international operations with the warm, collaborative spirit of India’s beverage industry, which he deeply appreciates.

When it comes to crafting drinks, Navjot emphasizes attention to detail. He ensures that every garnish and glass is relevant, working closely with his team—whom he calls “think tanks”—to perfect the finer details. One standout creation is his coconut fat-washed Negroni, blending sweet coconut candy with bitter chocolate. “It’s about contrasting flavors and colors,” he says, highlighting the balance of taste and visual appeal.

While aesthetics are important, Navjot believes in drinks that deliver on both presentation and taste. He manages his responsibilities through careful planning, making daily task lists and taking breaks to stay creative.

Navjot’s leadership focuses on punctuality, openness, and leading by example. “Listening to your team is key,” he emphasizes, fostering a culture of collaboration and credit-sharing.

For aspiring bartenders, Navjot advises mastering the basics rather than being swayed by social media glamor. “What you see on Instagram is just the tip of the iceberg,” he warns, stressing that personality and conversation often elevate a drink.

For Navjot, bartending is a creative canvas, a platform for storytelling, and a space for human connection. His passion continues to shape the industry in meaningful ways, ensuring a bright future for both himself and his drinks.