Скачать или смотреть History of Bar Snacks & Origins of Indian Chakhna Ft. Smitha Menon | The Dram Club

For us Indians, chakhna is a non-negotiable part of our drinking culture. From crispy masala peanuts at house parties to inventive bar bites like churiz pao in Goa and poha-crusted prawns in Maharashtra, there’s no denying that these snacks are as beloved as the drinks themselves. But have you ever wondered where it all began?

In this episode of Sip by Sip, we sit down with Smita Menon, a freelance journalist who has spent over a decade exploring and writing about the world of food, drinks, and hospitality. With stints at Conde Nast and an impressive repertoire of stories from across India and Southeast Asia, Smita knows her way around the best bars and snacks.

Together, we trace the fascinating history of bar snacks—from mythological references in Indian texts to the introduction of fish and chips in the UK’s pubs. Smita also shares her favourite finds, like Kerala’s toddy shop touchings (think crispy mackerel and fried mussels), Singapore’s pandan peanuts, and nostalgic innovations like Bombay’s Monaco biscuits with a gourmet twist.

But that’s not all. Smita dives into how bar snacks have evolved alongside drinking habits—think healthier, plant-based options and snack menus inspired by regional flavours. Plus, she’s got tips for anyone dreaming of opening their own bar and curating the perfect menu.

So, what’s your go-to chakhna? Listen to the episode now (link in bio), and let us know your favourites in the comments below!

#BarSnacks #Chakhna #MasalaPapad #BarBites

Navigation Bar:-
0:00 - 4:55 - Introduction
4:55 - 7:47 - History of Chakhna in India
7:47 - 8:48 - The clever bar trick behind your favourite chakhna
8:48 - 11:25 - Regional Bar Snacks
11:25 - 12:32 - Smitha’s Favourite Pairings
12:32 - 15:45 - How different are global bar snacks?
15:45 - 18:20 - Evolution of Bar Snacks
18:20 - 20:08 - Cocktail Bars with The Best Chakhna
20:08 - 26:45 - Prohibition & the ‘Aunty Bars’ of Bombay
26:45 - 29:00 - Do snacks bring in money for bars?
29:00 - 30:52 - How long does it take to curate a cocktail and bar menu?
30:53 - 33:33 - Bar owners adapting to changing consumer space
33:33 - 34:47 - Healthy Drinking? Myth or not?
34:48 - 37:00 - Growing trend of vegan bar snacks
37:00 - 38:13 - Where did the word ‘Chakhna’ come from?
38:13 - 40:35 - House Party Nibbles
40:35 - 43:20 - 3 Snacks You’ll Find at Smitha’s House Party
43:20 - 46:16 - Tips for Budding Bar Owners/Entrepreneurs
46:16 - 47:02 - Signing off