An International Bar Exchange: Ropewalk Welcomes AMPM Kolkata to Sri Lanka.

By Rishini Weeraratne

In a spirited celebration of mixology and cultural exchange, Sri Lanka’s premier arrack-specialty bar, Ropewalk, is joining forces with India’s dynamic cocktail bar, AMPM Kolkata, for an exclusive international bar exchange this November. This unique collaboration will see AMPM Kolkata bringing its signature cocktail innovations to Ropewalk on November 9th. In return, Ropewalk will take its renowned Sri Lankan arrack creations to AMPM Kolkata on November 16th, bridging two nations through the art of bartending. 

Founded in 2023, AMPM Kolkata has quickly earned a reputation as a sophisticated destination on Kolkata’s iconic Park Street. A coffee bar by day and cocktail haven by night, AMPM combines Calcutta’s social club heritage with a modern twist. “This exchange is a new format of takeovers and guest shifts that we’re excited to explore,” says Rajan Sethi, Founder & MD, and Dheeraj Maniyar, Partner at AMPM. “It’s about fostering connections, sharing cultures, and creating unforgettable experiences through every pour.” 

For its Ropewalk debut, AMPM will showcase a curated menu of cocktails that blend heritage and modern mixology. Highlights include the Trophy Bar Punch, featuring butter and coconut-washed gin, curry leaf triple sec, and Sambuca, and the Manhattan Park Style, a refined take on the classic Manhattan with maraschino cherry-aged rum and Darjeeling black tea. 

Amrit Rajaratnam, founder of Ropewalk, expressed equal enthusiasm: “Welcoming AMPM to Ropewalk allows us to merge Sri Lanka’s vibrant arrack traditions with Kolkata’s innovative cocktail craft. Taking our own creations to AMPM is a bold step in creating shared experiences that resonate deeply with both our cultures.” 

This collaboration not only celebrates the artistry of cocktails but also highlights the shared heritage between Sri Lanka and India. Guests at Ropewalk can look forward to experiencing Kolkata’s vibrant cocktail culture, while AMPM patrons in Kolkata will get a taste of Sri Lanka’s rich arrack heritage. 

Ropewalk

Located within the historic Galle Fort Hotel, Ropewalk is Sri Lanka’s first upscale arrack-specialty bar. Its ambience, a blend of Sri Lankan and Dutch colonial aesthetics, pays homage to the country’s rich history. The name "Ropewalk" reflects the traditional toddy collection process, essential in crafting the finest arrack. 

AMPM Kolkata

AMPM Kolkata, an elegant coffee and cocktail bar, brings to life the charm of old Calcutta’s social clubs with modern flair. By day, it serves artisanal single-origin coffee; by night, it transforms into a lively cocktail bar. The space exudes old-world charm with vintage artefacts, an extensive library, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for both coffee connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts. 

This cross-border bar exchange is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of two rich cultural traditions coming together in the spirit of innovation and collaboration. Be sure to mark your calendars for these exciting dates and experience the best of Sri Lankan and Indian mixology.