the mixer
The tantric life is not one you might normally associate with alcohol, but Tantra, a cosy bar tucked away in the lane that runs parallel to Staunton Street, is hoping to appeal to yoga-bunnies with a wild side.
Director Bidya Rai is looking to free the spirit and yoga fanatics may well reach a state of visualisation if they drink too many of her powerful but uplifting signature cocktails.
'It's about positive energy. Tantra is a chill-out lounge in the week, but at weekends it's a place for parties and dancing,' says Rai, who devised her cocktail list before opening the comfortable, earth-toned bar in June. 'Tantra is a little bit sexual too, which is why I made the Tantra Kama Sutra. I place a lot of emphasis on the presentation of the drinks.'
The turquoise Tantra Kama Sutra is a visual delight, the colour of the Maldivian seas and as irresistible to dive into. The Tantra Healing, with a hint of mint, is the bar's most popular mix.
Other signature drinks include the Tantra Kiss, Tantra Guru and Karmic Cosmo.
Try the Tantric range (HK$75) at Tantra, basement, 25 Staunton Street, tel: 3743 0235.
Tantra Healing (below)
11/2 shots Bacardi rum
1/2 shot Martini Rosso
Dash of lime cordial (or juice)
1 shot fresh orange juice
1 large sprig of mint
Shake all of the ingredients, except the mint, over ice and pour into a chilled, medium-sized stemmed glass. Add the mint so the drinker can stir it in to taste, and place an orange wedge on the rim of the glass.
Tantra Kama Sutra (above)
11/2 shots vodka
1/2 shot peach Schnapps
1/2 shot Triple Sec
11/2 shots pineapple juice
Dash of Blue Curacao
Shake all ingredients over ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a large triangular slice of pineapple.
