Taj Mahal, New Delhi marks the first anniversary of the re-imagined Rick’s with new cocktail creations

New Delhi, 10th September, 2024: Taj Mahal, New Delhi proudly celebrates the first anniversary of the re-imagined Rick’s – the Capital’s favourite Casablanca-inspired bar for cocktail aficionados and nostalgia seekers. In honour of this milestone, Rick’s unveiled four new cocktails, each thoughtfully crafted to capture the ‘spirit’ of the bar’s distinctive concept. Here, each signature cocktail tells a compelling story, and each sip celebrates the art and science of mixology.

At the heart of Rick's lies a unique concept inspired by the classic film Casablanca while embracing the essence of modern mixology. The additions to the menu reflect its evolution, blending classic influences with contemporary techniques to create an experience that is as nostalgic as it is forward-thinking.

“Rick's has always been a sanctuary for guests seeking a confluence of the classic and contemporary, an immersive and innovative selection of beverages, and world-cuisine amid a retro-chic ambiance. Our journey over the past year has been about celebrating this spirit, and the legendary Casablanca while embracing the evolving tastes of our guests. With the newly launched signature cocktails, our approach was to re-imagine the storied Rick’s through a fresh lens, integrating modern mixology with a curated global spirits selection. We invite patrons to experience the past, the present and the future – at Rick’s.”

Chef Arun Sundararaj, Director of Culinary Operations – Taj Mahal, New Delhi

“When we reimagined the menu of Rick’s, we drew heavily from the nostalgia of Casablanca, channeling the essence of Rick Blaine. However, as we stepped into 2024, it became essential to give this classic concept a contemporary twist. We’ve also infused the menu with references to the film’s characters and scenes, creating a storybook that invites guests to explore the rich narrative behind each drink.”

Pankaj Balachandran, Co-Founder and CEO, Countertop India 

Among the latest offerings is the Legend of Laszlo, a bold rum-based cocktail that celebrates the courage and passion of Victor Laszlo, blending apricot dark rum with Gondhoraj bitters and Kafir lime tincture. The Rick & Renault cocktail invites guests to relive the iconic moment of an unlikely alliance between Rick Blaine and Captain Renault, with a transformative mix of fig vodka, homemade cherry liqueur, and a hint of grenadine. The Tale of Croupier, inspired by Emile, the deft croupier at Rick's Café Americain, offers a sophisticated balance of sweet, tart, nutty, and creamy notes. Lastly, the Captain’s Picante captures the unpredictable nature of Captain Renault with a bold tequila base, spiced with jalapeño, raw mango, and coriander. Each of these creations pays homage to the legendary characters of Casablanca while exemplifying Rick’s commitment to innovative mixology.

In its new avatar, Rick’s presents an immersive experience with a fine selection of handpicked spirits, eclectic entertainment featuring jazz evenings, a pianist, retro favourites by the DJ over the weekend, and delectable global flavours to delight the gourmands of yesterday, today and tomorrow.