Launch of Guest Series at Lotus Bistro.

On August 22, the new Lotus Bistro on Fontanka launches a series of bar guest nights. The first evening is dedicated to alcohol-free cocktails and features Evgeny Shashin. His name is well known in the industry: he holds the titles of Bar Icon by Where to Drink 2024, Mixologist of the Year Inshaker 2018, and wins at the WCC Russia championships in 2014 and 2015. For Lotus Bistro, he'll present the Notails project, in which alcohol is replaced with technology and precise work with natural ingredients.

Notails is based on methods of steam extraction and vacuum distillation. These processes gently draw out aromatic oils and preserve the ingredients' natural tones. The result is cocktails with a clean, rich flavor that holds up against classic recipes. Water, juices, and extracts are used as bases, and the project's idea is to let guests enjoy the flavor without consequences. These drinks will be the centerpiece of the evening at Lotus Bistro.

Specially for the event, Evgeny Shashin has developed four cocktails. The first, "Lotus Dawn," is light and refreshing, with white vermouth, yuzu, and peach, highlighting the kitchen's pan-Asian accent. The second, "Sakura in the Clouds," built on non-alcoholic sparkling wine and Notails orange aperitivo, will serve as an aperitif with a bright citrus accent. Every drink is designed to pair with the bistro's menu and continue the evening's theme.

The third cocktail, "Jasmine Silk," combines Notails gin with jasmine and shiso. It will pair especially harmoniously with dishes from Lotus Bistro's menu, making a match for an unhurried evening. The set closes with "Ginger Zen," made with Notails whisky, apple, green tea, and honeyed ginger. This digestif-style drink is offered as a calm way to close out the evening. Guests will get acquainted with a fresh take on bar culture, one where technology and attention to ingredients replace the usual proof.