Delhi’s INJA Crowned Champions of Greater Than’s Bartender Competition

The anticipation surrounding Bar Wars culminated in an electrifying grand finale on September 15 in Goa. After a series of high-stakes contests across eight major cities, INJA from Delhi claimed the coveted title of 2024 Bar Wars Champions. What began with over 400 teams submitting Instagram reel entries ended with INJA standing victorious, securing a cash prize of INR 2 lakhs and a prestigious international bar takeover with Greater Than Gin.

Bar Wars, presented by Greater Than Gin and India’s only bartender-server competition, set itself apart by spotlighting the often-overlooked servers alongside the bartenders, celebrating the teamwork that defines India’s top bars. The competition also embraced a unique consumer-driven judging system, with over 100 patrons at each regional event evaluating cocktails, pitches, and service before casting their votes. This democratic process allowed consumers to decide which teams delivered the most exceptional bar experience.

The final showdown in Goa brought together India’s top bar teams, including Jamming Goat from Hyderabad, Papa’s from Mumbai, Whisky Samba from Gurgaon, Muro from Bangalore, Room One from Goa, Mehico from Kolkata, Steakhouse Bar and Grill from Pune, and the eventual champions, INJA from Delhi. Each team dazzled with inventive cocktails and innovative pitches, but it was INJA’s flawless execution, creativity, and chemistry that captured the crowd and secured their victory.

Anand Virmani, Co-Founder of NAO Spirits, reflected on the success of this year’s competition: “Bar Wars has become our favourite event of the year, and 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s not just about the cocktails but also about shining a light on the servers, who are often the unsung heroes of the bar scene. The consumer-driven judging process has brought a new level of transparency and excitement to the competition, something we’re incredibly proud of.”

INJA’s win in Bar Wars adds another milestone to its already remarkable journey. As a debut venture in India for Dubai-based Atelier House Hospitality, INJA merges Indian and Japanese culinary traditions, a bold and innovative concept conceived by Chef Partner Adwait Anantwar and President Panchali Mahendra. The delicate balance of Japan’s clean, subtle flavours with India’s complex, ingredient-rich profile reflects INJA’s commitment to creativity and excellence. The restaurant’s seamless integration of these two cuisines mirrors the teamwork displayed in the competition. On their Bar Wars win, INJA remarked, “The competition was fierce, and all three rounds pushed us to think creatively and work even harder. We’re proud to take home the title of Bar Wars 2024 Champions and can’t wait to bring India’s bar culture to the international stage.”

Bar Wars 2024 showcased the innovation, camaraderie, and passion that drive India’s vibrant bar scene, with Greater Than Gin continuing to lead the charge. As the bar community looks ahead to the next edition, this year’s competition will be remembered as one that truly celebrated the spirit and skill of bartenders and servers alike.