Restaurant launches crowdfunding campaign for ‘world-first’ gin and tea bar

East India Cafe, a Cheltenham-based Anglo-Indian restaurant, has launched a crowdfunding campaign for the opening of a new gin and tea bar.

The restaurant owners claim the Memsahib Gin and Tea Bar is a ‘world-first’ and it is inspired by the British Raj period, in which many Anglo-Indian women settled in Cheltenham.

The Kickstarter campaign was launched following the popularity of the gin and tea offering at the East India Cafe. The new bar will serve 55 seasonally selected gins including its own Masala Chai Gin, Chai tea as well as small plates and canapes.

Its interior will be based on the British Raj period in the 19th Century and the new bar will open at the Promenade, down the road from the restaurant.

In exchange for monetary support on the company’s Kickstarter page, the team will be offering exclusive gifts depending on how much someone pledges to donate. This includes meals for two, tasting menu evenings, gin distilling masterclasses and exclusive hire of the unique new bar for up to 80 guests.

Co-owner of East India Cafe and the new Memsahib Gin and Tea Bar, Litu Mohiuddin said: “Our customers at East India Cafe love our idea of mixing gin and tea together, so it’s a dream come true that we are taking the next step and opening our very own gin and tea bar, which to our knowledge will be the first ever in the world.

“We are so grateful of all the pledges we have received so far – we’re edging closer to making our dreams become a reality. It’s an all or nothing project but we are hopeful of reaching our target. We are offering brilliant prizes in return and appreciate all the help that will aid us on our journey.”