Flying Elephant: Unique Speakeasy Opens in Dubai Al Barsha

Dubai, United Arab Emirates-: Flying Elephant, an alluring speakeasy hidden behind a discreet entrance on Novotel Dubai Al Barsha’s ground floor, has opened its doors welcoming guests into a world of intrigue and nostalgia. Inspired by the secretive ‘aunty bars’ of Bombay’s prohibition era, Flying Elephant features a bespoke menu of contemporary Indian dishes and innovative cocktails, crafted in collaboration with renowned mixologist Yangdup Lama.

The cocktail bar’s evocative ambiance captivates the senses by artfully blending theatrics and mysticism to create an unforgettable experience for those eager to uncover a bygone era of longing for this nostalgic time in India’s history.

Mirroring the enchanting ambiance of Bombay’s secret bars, Flying Elephant is specially designed to evoke the intimate and cosy atmosphere of ‘aunty bars,’ where guests feel as though they are welcomed right into the aunty’s living room. Infused with opulent floral and botanical motifs, the cocktail bar also incorporates atmospheric table lighting to create a space that is both familiar and thrillingly mysterious. Adding to this unique charm is lively entertainment, with a thrilling DJ lineup and live performances in collaboration with Vinyl Souk, ensuring that every evening is filled with vibrant music and energy, elevating the overall experience.

Flying Elephant’s cocktails and mocktails are a tribute to regions of India, each crafted to evoke the country’s rich historical tapestry, brimming with vibrant flavours, aromatic scents, and natural ingredients commonly found in India. Each drink tells a story. The Elephant Bath, for instance, draws inspiration from India’s lush jungles, where elephants roam freely. This playful cocktail blends pisco, spicy mango, pineapple shrub, red apple concentrate, and kaffir lime leaves, tied together with a splash of Pinot Grigio, embodying the refreshing vitality of the wild.

The Jau Jau honours the ancient legacy of barley in India, which has been used for centuries in traditional food and drink. This cocktail mixes single-malt whisky with roasted barley water, adding a nutty, earthy kick, sweetened by homemade vetiver and date syrup, and brightened with a hint of citrus. It’s a tribute to the deep connection between the land and its harvest, creating a drink with both history and heart.

The menu also offers a selection of non-alcoholic options, with the standout being the Gulab Jal – a refreshing blend of non-alcoholic gin, homemade gulab gulkand, concentrate, citric, rose essence, and sparkling water. Inspired by traditional Indian summer drinks, this mocktail captures the fragrant allure of rosewater that is all too nostalgic. In combination with classic cocktails with a twist – such as the Midnight Negroni, Tangy Margarita, and Bloodiest Mary – Flying Elephant’s beverage is truly magical, offering guests a masterclass in mystical Mixology.

Flying Elephant reimagines classic Indian dishes, showcasing the diverse flavours of India with an emphasis on freshness, quality, and creativity. From the fragrant streets of Old Delhi to the coastal whispers of Kerala, each dish captures the essence of unique Indian kitchens. The bar bites are expertly paired with cocktails; the Pindi Chole Hummus, a Punjabi-spiced hummus with garlic naan crisps, offers a delightful twist. Mains include the Truffle Mushroom Galouti, a wild mushroom kebab topped with San Miniato truffle shavings, and the Wagyu Bombay Toast, Wagyu strip cooked on a “tawa” and served on toasted brioche.

While signature dishes such as the Dhungaar Butter Chicken and Asamese Fish highlight regional flavours. Desserts fuse familiar tastes with Indian flair, such as the Halwa Cheesecake and Tres Leches with ras malai, mascarpone, and almonds, offering unforgettable indulgence.

Flying Elephant; where tradition meets adventure, stories, laughter, and a hint of mischief fill the air. Now officially open, Flying Elephant is excited to welcome guests to their new home.