Millennials And Gen Z Are Redefining Dining With A Demand For Authenticity: Yaar Bar Co-Founder

Yaar Bar, Co-Founded by mixologist Chetan Gangan and entrepreneur Vijay K Patel, brings the essence of Goa to life through its innovative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere in Morjim. Known for blending local ingredients with a storytelling approach, Yaar offers a unique bar experience aimed at celebrating friendship and community.

"Yaar isn’t just a bar; it’s a celebration of friendship," says Gangan in an interview with Bizz Buzz, who draws from his journey working in Michelin-starred establishments to craft memorable experiences at Yaar. With interactive cocktail-making, live performances, and sustainable practices, Yaar is redefining hospitality for Millennials and Gen Z, offering an inclusive space where every detail, from the cocktails to the ambiance, is designed to create unforgettable moments worth sharing

Tell us about yourself and Yaar Bar.

I’m Chetan Gangan, a mixologist, bartender, and co-founder of Yaar Bar in Morjim, Goa. I’ve worked at a Michelin-star restaurant in Chicago, and my journey in the hospitality industry has been quite an adventure - from starting as a bartender in Mumbai to crafting unique cocktail experiences at Yaar.

Yaar is more than just a bar; it’s a celebration of friendship. We blend exceptional food, inventive cocktails, and unforgettable experiences, creating an atmosphere where connections can be made and rekindled. We’ve designed the space to reflect the different stages of relationships, mirroring how friendships evolve over time. It’s about creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home, and each visit becomes a cherished memory.

What is the evolution of experiential dining, and how are Millennials and Gen Z shaping restaurant culture?

The evolution of experiential dining has been fascinating to witness. Today, it’s all about creating memorable experiences rather than just serving food and drinks. Millennials and Gen Z have a significant influence on this shift. They seek authenticity, unique experiences, and connection with the brands they engage with.

At Yaar, we embrace this by offering an open and inclusive atmosphere where guests can enjoy interactive elements like making their own cocktails, live performances, and themed events. We want to ensure that every aspect of their visit is enjoyable and meaningful. These generations are also more adventurous and open-minded, which inspires us to push the boundaries of creativity in our food and drink offerings. It’s about creating a space where everyone can celebrate the joy of togetherness.

How is mixology reinvented, and what is the Gen Z and Millennial influence on cocktail culture?

Mixology has undergone a remarkable transformation, especially with the influence of Millennials and Gen Z. These generations are not just looking for a good drink; they want a story behind it, a connection to the ingredients, and a unique experience.

At Yaar, we’re all about pushing the boundaries of mixology. We incorporate local ingredients, experiment with fermentation, and create cocktails that tell a story - like our Karaganda cocktail made with jackfruit and mango. The emphasis on sustainability and seasonal produce resonates with younger consumers, and we’re proud to reflect that in our menu. Moreover, the demand for visually appealing drinks has surged, and we focus on presentation as much as flavour. The experience of enjoying a cocktail has become just as important as the taste itself. We see our guests sharing their experiences on social media, and that’s a testament to how cocktail culture is evolving. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about creating moments worth sharing.

Describe sustainability in hospitality and how it is a necessity for the modern consumer?

Sustainability in hospitality is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity. Today’s consumers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are more conscious of their choices and the impact they have on the environment. They demand transparency and sustainability from the brands they support.

At Yaar, we’ve integrated sustainable practices into our operations. We source local ingredients to reduce our carbon footprint, minimise waste by using every part of the produce, and even incorporate fermentation techniques in-house. Our goal is to create cocktails that are not only delicious, but also environmentally friendly.

Moreover, sustainability isn’t just about ingredients; it extends to our overall approach to hospitality. Creating a welcoming space that fosters community and connection is crucial. We want our guests to feel that by choosing Yaar, they’re supporting a bar that values the planet and local culture. As we move forward, sustainability will remain at the core of our mission, shaping how we serve our guests and the planet we share.

How is social media reshaping dining trends?

Social media has fundamentally transformed how we experience dining. It’s no longer just about the food; it’s about the entire experience. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are powerful tools for restaurants and bars, allowing us to showcase our unique offerings and engage with our audience in real-time.

At Yaar, we recognise the impact of visually stunning dishes and cocktails. Guests often come in excited to capture and share their experiences online, which encourages us to push the boundaries of creativity in both our food presentation and our drink recipes. It’s about creating shareable moments that resonate with our audience. Social media has also helped us foster a community where our guests feel connected not only to us, but also to each other, enhancing the overall dining experience.

What is the digital age’s influence on hospitality?

The digital age has revolutionised hospitality in countless ways. With technology at our fingertips, consumers have access to an overwhelming amount of information about dining options, reviews, and trends. This has made transparency crucial; guests expect to know where their food and drinks come from, how they’re made, and the stories behind them.

At Yaar, we embrace this digital influence by engaging with our guests on social media, promoting our values, and sharing behind-the-scenes content. We also utilise online reservation systems and digital menus to enhance convenience for our guests. In this fast-paced digital world, adapting to new technologies and understanding consumer behaviour is vital for staying relevant and creating memorable experiences.

What is authenticity in modern hospitality, and what is the importance of understanding what Gen Z and Millennials value most?

Authenticity in modern hospitality means being true to your brand, values, and community. It’s about creating genuine connections with guests and offering experiences that reflect real stories and local culture. For Millennials and Gen Z, authenticity is crucial - they seek brands that resonate with their values and provide a sense of belonging.

At Yaar, we prioritise local ingredients and traditional flavours, crafting cocktails and dishes that honour our heritage while also being innovative. Understanding what these generations value - sustainability, inclusivity, and transparency - allows us to create a space that feels welcoming and relatable. We want our guests to know that every cocktail tells a story, and every dish is made with care and intention.

What are the top five trends redefining dining for Millennials and Gen Z?

Sustainability: Today’s diners prioritise sustainability and expect restaurants to adopt eco-friendly practices. At Yaar, we focus on sourcing local ingredients and reducing waste to align with this value.

Experiential Dining: It’s all about creating memorable experiences. From interactive cocktail-making to themed events, we aim to engage our guests in a way that goes beyond just eating and drinking.

Health-Conscious Choices: Millennials and Gen Z are more health-conscious than ever, looking for options that are nutritious and cater to various dietary preferences. Our menu includes fresh, seasonal produce and healthy alternatives to traditional dishes.

Social Media Engagement: As I mentioned earlier, the visual appeal of food and drinks is crucial. We create Instagram-worthy cocktails and dishes that encourage guests to share their experiences online.

Inclusivity: This generation values spaces that are open and welcoming to everyone. At Yaar, we strive to create an inclusive environment where all guests feel comfortable, regardless of their background or preferences. By staying attuned to these trends, we can continue to evolve and create a dining experience that resonates with the values of our guests.

What are the ways social media is transforming the bar and restaurant experience?

Social media is a game-changer for the bar and restaurant experience in several ways:

Visual Marketing: Platforms like Instagram and Snapchat allow us to showcase our unique cocktails and dishes visually. A beautiful presentation can attract new customers and entice them to visit.

Real-Time Engagement: Social media enables direct communication with guests. We can respond to comments, share updates, and engage with our audience in real-time, fostering a sense of community.

User-Generated Content: When guests share their experiences online, it serves as authentic marketing for us. Their photos and reviews can influence potential diners and create a buzz around our offerings.

Promotions and Events: We can promote special events, happy hours, or new menu items instantly. Social media allows us to reach a wide audience quickly, making it easier to drive attendance.

Feedback and Improvement: Social media provides valuable feedback from customers. We can gauge what resonates with our audience and adapt our offerings accordingly, ensuring we meet their expectations.

Give five sustainable practices revolutionising hospitality.

Locally Sourced Ingredients: We prioritise working with local farmers and suppliers to reduce our carbon footprint and support the community. This not only ensures freshness, but also strengthens our connection to the local economy.

Waste Reduction: Implementing strategies to minimise food waste is crucial. At Yaar, we repurpose ingredients creatively and donate excess food to local charities, helping those in need while reducing waste.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: For takeout and delivery, we use sustainable packaging materials that are biodegradable or recyclable. This reflects our commitment to sustainability and resonates with environmentally conscious diners.

Energy Efficiency: Adopting energy-efficient appliances and practices helps reduce our overall energy consumption. Simple changes, like using LED lighting and energy-efficient refrigeration, make a significant impact.

Water Conservation: We implement water-saving practices in our operations, such as using low-flow fixtures and recycling water when possible. This commitment to conserving water aligns with our sustainability goals.