Asia’s top bar STIR Saigon brings smoky sips and Saigon soul to Delhi’s iconic Rick’s bar at the Taj.
The Legacy of Rick’s: From Casablanca to Delhi
The timeless line from the 1942 film Casablanca —
“Of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world, she walks into mine…”
— still carries a haunting romanticism. And at Rick’s, the iconic bar at Taj Mahal, New Delhi, that very mood was reborn during ‘A Saigon Soirée’, a special takeover event on July 23.
Bringing STIR Saigon — ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Bars — to India’s capital, the evening was a tribute to the golden age of Hollywood blended seamlessly with Vietnamese cocktail craftsmanship.
Not Casablanca’s War-torn Past, But Its Elegance
The ambience at Rick’s isn’t about war or heartbreak — instead, it resonates with modern jazz, low amber lights, and the soulful voice of Adele. It’s where nostalgia meets now, with plush velvet seating and carefully curated bar aesthetics transporting you into a cinematic world.
Casablanca Meets Indochine: A Cross-Cultural Menu
The menu — just like the city of Casablanca — was a mix of French-Moroccan tones and Indochine flavours.
Master mixologists Quoc Huy and Le Thinh brought the soul of Saigon to Delhi, introducing Vietnamese ingredients and techniques that were adapted for Indian palates. Think familiar, but new.
Standout Cocktails of the Evening:
- Smoky Berries – A whisky-based mystery with perfect balance
- Truffle Martini – A rich indulgence with an umami twist
- Tropical Negroni – A South Asian take on the bitter classic
- Pinehattan – The crowd favourite, bold yet refreshing
East Meets East: Delhi & Saigon Behind the Bar
Despite different drinking cultures, Vietnam’s vibrant bar spirit found a comfortable home at Rick’s. With their effortless charm and expertise, Huy and Thinh merged two distinct beverage philosophies — all while honoring the space they were in.
Rick’s Reimagined: Classic Meets Contemporary
Unveiled in 2023, the refreshed identity of Rick’s pays homage to the cinematic legend while embracing the art of modern mixology.
Signature elements at Rick’s:
- Ingredients: Japanese miso, homemade bitters, pickled infusions
- Techniques: Milk washing, sous vide, clarification
- Drinks: ‘Ilsa’s Last Song’, ‘Umami Ugarte’ and more
It’s not just a bar — it’s a moodboard of nostalgia, innovation, and global craftsmanship.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember, A Legacy Reinforced
‘A Saigon Soirée’ wasn’t just a bar takeover; it was an event that celebrated cultural crossover, artistic bartending, and timeless storytelling. Just like Rick Blaine’s bar in Casablanca, this Rick’s remains a haven — where the world meets over a drink, and stories unfold.
Also Read : Delhi’s Late-Night Food Scene to Get a Boost with Planned Night Market
