Group A
Russia
The drink: Vodka
Vodka is everything to Russia. The spirit supposedly made its first appearance in Russia during the 14th century, but only really gained momentum in the 1980s. Buntanes “Pop” Direkrittikul, a Thai bartender who has had a lot of guest appearances in St.Petersburg says, “Russians love to infuse their vodka with everything, and just simply take a shot.” (Fun fact: There are a few classic cocktails with names related to Russia such as Moscow Mule and Black Russian, but none of them actually originated in the Slavic country.)
Where to try it: Since we don’t have an authentic vodka bar in Bangkok, you can try Pop’s vodka chocolate shot at Eat Me (0 2238 0931)—but not before ordering one of his Thai-inspired cocktails.
Saudi Arabia
The drink: Arabic coffee
Apart from fresh fruit juice, Arabic coffee is considered the national drink in this desert country. The term refers to the process of serving brewed Arabica coffee beans in the region’s signature style: hot in a small cup with a bit of cardamom and with no sugar added.
Where to try it: The Espresso Martini at A Stimulant by Sarnies (09 9432 6433) is a booze-fueled version of your favorite energy booster, mixing vodka with an espresso shot, coffee liqueur and sugar syrup. Ask for an extra sprinkling of cardamom to give the drink an Arabic twist.
Egypt
The drink: Fresh sugarcane juice
You’ll find stalls selling freshly squeezed sugarcane juice at every street corner in Cairo or anywhere else in Egypt. Egyptians usually line up for this refreshing drink after evening prayers.
Where to try it: Try the Ruen Rudee at one Michelin-starred Saneh Jaan (0 2650 9880). Inspired by the Thai dessert of the same name, the cocktail mixes Frangelico with sweet and refreshing sugarcane juice, white champaka syrup and Mekhong spirit.
Uruguay
The drink: Mate
Mate is a caffeine-rich, energy boosting South American drink that is prepared by steeping the yerba mate plant in hot water. Traditionally, they are drank from a cup made of cured calabash gourd.
Where to try it: Mate is hard to find in Bangkok, but if you’re in Germany, you can try Club Mate, a carbonated beverage with