Moonshine, DIFC’s premier speakeasy, unveils a remarkable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in an unparalleled fusion of mixology and mastery amidst the ambiance and allure of the lunar escape.
Curated by the masterful hands of fermentation revivalist and koji grower Denis Pashkov, Bar Consultant and Mixologist, Moonshine’s beverage offerings come to life in the exquisite fermentation-driven cocktail menu, featuring a plethora of koji applications. Having also consulted in cocktail bars and venues across Dubai and Lucerne in Switzerland, Pashkov and Liquid Design Agency bring an eclectic mix of experience to his new role, having creatively curated each drink with precision and flair, offering a contemporary twist on disco-era classics.
Moonshine stands as a trailblazer, being the first and only bar in the Middle East to have pioneered and integrated the widespread use of Koji applications across their menu. Committed to sustainability, the team prioritises fermentation, with one of the benefits being prolonged shelf life for products and ingredients. Through detailed analysis, experimentation, and applied microbiology, the expert bartenders are devoted to finding ways to eliminate food waste, which amplify existing flavours, expand the depth of flavour, and create new ones with the help of fermentation and modern mixology techniques.
With a dedication to crafting their own ingredients in-house, the team elevates their offerings with artisanal touches like homemade miso paste derived from black-eyed peas using Koji, and Amazake, a fermented beverage also made from Koji, Palo Santo, and Pear. Bold and unique flavours such as shiro miso, miso butter caramel, sea buckthorn tepache, blackcurrant kvass, and yuzu champagne take centre stage, ensuring a sensory journey with every sip.
One of Moonshine’s signature creations, The Bold Russian, seamlessly blends the essence of an Espresso Martini with the richness of a White Russian. Combining cold brew coffee, miso butter caramel, banana liqueur, rum, and a delicate espuma made from Pepsi & tiramisu, this beloved concoction embodies the innovative spirit of Moonshine’s mixology.
Guests can further discover sweet mélanges like the Lychee Martini, a seamless fusion of vodka, lychee, myrrh balanced with a hint of sesame oil; the Blue Hawaii, a rum based concoction harmoniously blended with London Essence Blood Orange & Elderflower soda, frankincense, and pineapple espuma or the Nitro Star Martini with Tito’s, passionfruit, tonka beans and yuzu champagne. While those in the mood for grapes can delight in an extensive grape list curated by the team featuring, French whites, Spanish reds and Champagnes, to name just a few.
Head to the mysterious venue hidden behind the green door somewhere in DIFC and indulge in a world of enchantment where mesmerising interiors and exceptional mixology converge to create an experience like no other.
