A recommendation that came from the peeps at Bombay Canteen was Native. Situated in the heart of Pink City on Ajmer Rd, this makes a nice spot to end your evening.
Located along Ajmer Road, Native doesn’t immediately reveal itself as one of Jaipur’s most exciting cocktail destinations.
The entrance begins inside a heritage-style bungalow that is a hotel. Taking the lift to the second floor, you’re greeted by an understated mirrored door simply bearing the word NATIVE.
I visited on a Sunday evening, when the atmosphere was relaxed yet lively. I was shown to a cosy three-seater table, and almost immediately the staff began introducing me to the concept behind their cocktail menu. The earthy textures and interiors inspired by traditional Rajasthani architecture felt elegant yet rustic.
Their hospitality reminded me of one of the things I’d come to appreciate throughout my India trip—bartenders who genuinely enjoy sharing the stories behind their drinks.
A Cocktail Menu Inspired by Icons
Their new cocktail menu – Native 3.0 takes a more imaginative approach. Each cocktail is named after a well-known personality—from cultural icons to global legends—with every drink designed to reflect the individual’s personality or legacy.
Colaba Street
To begin the evening, I ordered Colaba Street, a cocktail created as a tribute to the late Ratan Tata, one of India’s most respected business leaders.
It was a clarified milk drink opened with rich coffee notes that immediately caught my attention. Smooth, balanced and approachable, it carried a comforting warmth while remaining refined enough to sip slowly.
Rather than relying on bold theatrics, the cocktail focused on subtle complexity, allowing each flavour to unfold gradually with every sip.
It was an elegant introduction to Native’s philosophy—cocktails that tell stories rather than simply showcase technique.
Drunken Noodles
After Colaba Street, the bartender recommended Drunken Noodles as my second cocktail, suggesting something lighter and more refreshing to balance the rich flavours from dinner. I was hesitant based on its description and portrait that it might taste like a watermelon juice.
However, it turned out to be an excellent recommendation. Compared to Colaba Street, Drunken Noodles was brighter, easy to drink. Its refreshing, making it a perfect palate cleanser after a hearty meal.
The contrast between the two drinks also showcased the bar’s versatility—one bold and contemplative, the other vibrant and effortlessly drinkable.
Final Thoughts
Native isn’t the kind of bar you’ll visit for familiar classics. Instead, it’s a place that encourages curiosity, with cocktails that are deeply rooted in storytelling and inspired by personalities, culture and creativity.
While I appreciated the craftsmanship behind each drink, I found the combinations too imaginative for my personal palate. I naturally gravitate towards more classic, spirit-led cocktails, so not every creation resonated with me. That said, the originality of the menu is exactly what makes Native stand out in Jaipur’s growing cocktail scene.
If you’re visiting Jaipur and looking for a cocktail bar that offers more than just great drinks, Native is well worth adding to your itinerary. Come with an open mind, trust the bartenders, and you may discover a flavour combination you never knew you’d enjoy. If you have time, visit Room No. 102 which is a few hundred metres away from Native!