City cools down with healthy, seasonal drinks

Mango madness, a signature summer drink with mango pulp and sesame seeds. Pic: Anindya Saha
From refreshing, low-sugar concoctions to the undisputed reign of the magnificent mango, Kolkata's cafes and restaurants are stirring up delightful beverages to beat the heat while keeping health and taste in perfect harmony.
Think house-made coolers, fruity elixirs and seasonal blends – there's something for every palate. CT speaks to them to find out what Kolkata is drinking to beat the heat.
Guilt-free sips
Kolkata summers are pushing people towards purpose-driven drinks. 'Gen Z and Millennials want drinks that hydrate and energise,' says Vikram Khinwasara, co-founder, The Yellow Straw. Sougata Halder, executive chef, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge echoes: 'There is a growing demand for low-sugar options.'
'Our fresh juices are mostly without added sugar,' adds Aayushi Bajaj, founder, Pinkk Sugars. 'They're a refreshing and wholesome choice.
' 'Organic and fresh ingredients are in high demand this season,' says Suman Burman.
Mango madness, a signature summer drink with mango pulp and sesame seeds
40% surge in mango-based beverage sales is seen during peak summer months
Patrons are looking for refreshing robust aromatic drinks. We are using Kasundi in one of our drinks as a nostalgic ingredient. It is something that is used in almost every house in Kolkata
– Suman Burman, manager, SKAI
Rich in electrolytes and natural salts, aam panna helps prevent dehydration and heatstroke
Regional mangoes, modern twists
Vikram reveals that his team sources regional mango varieties like Langda and Himsagar, to bring authenticity to the beverage. He says, 'Our mango shake is a tribute to a traditional Marwari recipe: Aam Ras. We use real mango pulp to keep the essence intact.' The mango obsession doesn't stop there. 'We have our summer faves such as the mango chilli drink,' said Prateek Kayan, co-founder, Motherland. 'We also do a fancy version of Bel Sherbet at the café,' he added.
There's nothing quite like a seasonal shake to beat the summer heat. When the temperatures rise, I find myself constantly craving something that's not just cooling, but also flavourful and a little sweet– Dolly Singh, model
Customers are leaning towards light, refreshing flavours –think citrus, mint, watermelon, and subtle spice. Ingredients like gondhoraj lebu, fresh berries, and herbal infusions are especially popular– Chef Sougata Halder
Five flavours Kolkata cannot get enough of
Gondhoraj Ghol
Mango shake and Lassi
Mint lemonade
Aam Panna
Watemelon juices and mixes
Model: Dolly Singh
Pics: Anindya Saha
Location: SKAI

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