Behind the Botanicals: An Interview with Gaurav Bajaj

An interview with Gaurav Bajaj – Co Owner – The Drunken Botanist

In the vibrant world of mixology, Gaurav Bajaj, Co-Owner of The Drunken Botanist, stands out as a visionary. With a passion for crafting unique cocktails and a commitment to sustainability, Gaurav has transformed the bar scene, blending creativity with botanical ingredients.

In this interview, he shares insights into his journey, the philosophy behind The Drunken Botanist, and the innovative trends shaping the future of the cocktail industry.

Tell us a bit about your outlet and what it stands for

Gaurav: The Drunken Botanist isn’t just a bar or a restaurant—it’s an experience. Inspired by Amy Stewart’s book, the place is built around a playful idea: what if a botanist got a little too adventurous with mixing plants and potions?

That’s the vibe—lush, quirky, and immersive. We’ve created a space where everything from the drinks to the decor tells a story and sparks curiosity.

What makes your marketing strategy stand out?

Gaurav: We’re all about moments that people want to share. Think visually stunning interiors, unique cocktails with a twist, and events that surprise you.

Social media plays a huge role, of course, but so does word-of-mouth—we’ve built a community that loves to talk about us. Collaborations with local artists and theme nights help keep the energy fresh and the buzz alive.

Your personal favorite dish on the menu?

Gaurav: Hands down, the Choley Bhature Tacos. It’s our cheeky take on a classic—comfort food with global flair. It captures everything we love: flavor, fun, and a little unexpected twist.

With so many options out there, how do you make sure people choose you?

Gaurav: We focus on three things—experience, consistency, and creativity. Cyber Hub is packed with great places, but what makes us different is the attention to detail. It’s not just about good food and drinks, it’s the vibe, the service, the feeling you get when you walk in. People come for the food but stay for the story.

How do you keep your menu fresh and exciting?

Gaurav: We’re constantly experimenting. Our chefs take familiar dishes and add a twist—global ingredients, new formats, playful presentations.

Inspiration can come from anywhere, but it’s always filtered through the Drunken Botanist lens. And yes, we put a lot of thought into how things look too—presentation is half the fun!

Who are your typical customers?

Gaurav: Honestly, it’s a bit of everyone. We see young professionals, families, groups of friends, even corporates on a lunch break.

The beauty of our space is that it adapts—it’s got corners for quiet catch-ups and open areas for celebrations. It’s a vibe that fits different moods and moments.

What would you say are your USPs?

Gaurav:

• Our quirky, botanical-meets-lab theme—it’s something you won’t find anywhere else.
• Craft beers and herb-infused cocktails—our bar is a lab in itself.
• A menu that blends global flavors with Indian soul.
• A massive, comfortable space with over 220 seats and a 60-foot-long bar.
• And most importantly, consistency—we make sure every visit feels just as special.

Any new menu items coming up?

Gaurav: Definitely! We’re always adding to the mix. Right now, we’re working on more plant-based and healthier indulgent options.

Plus, a new zero-proof cocktail menu for those who want the vibe without the alcohol. Expect more seasonal, herb-forward infusions too—we like to keep things interesting.

What’s the plan when it comes to investment and expansion?

Gaurav: We’re opening up franchise opportunities in metro cities across India—we want to grow, but in a way that keeps the soul of the brand intact.

Beyond that, we’re branching out into fine dining and cloud kitchens. The goal is to reach different kinds of diners with the same commitment to creativity and quality.

And finally—what’s next?

Gaurav: While The Drunken Botanist is our heart, we’re working on some exciting new concepts behind the scenes.

From elevated dining to innovative delivery-only kitchens, we’re building a portfolio that reflects how people eat and connect today. Can’t say too much just yet—but yes, something’s always brewing!

As Gaurav Bajaj continues to push the boundaries of mixology, his dedication to quality and community shines through.

The Drunken Botanist not only serves exceptional drinks but also fosters a culture of creativity and sustainability.

With exciting plans on the horizon, Gaurav’s journey is a testament to the evolving landscape of the cocktail world, inspiring both patrons and aspiring mixologists alike.

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