Tanmoy Roy

If cocktails could talk, they’d tell tales of Tanmoy.

Life often throws choices at us like a buffet spread. Some pick the safe options, some take risks, and then there are the rare few like Tanmoy, who turn the entire spread into a masterpiece. If not for hospitality, he might have been crafting creative campaigns or running a business empire. But fate had already reserved his table in the world of food, drinks, and unforgettable experiences.

The year was 2000. Y2K didn’t end the world, but it did mark the beginning of Tanmoy’s love affair with hospitality. He started as a humble steward at Cidade de Goa, learning the sacred art of service—ensuring plates were spotless, glasses sparkled, and guests left with a satisfied smile (and hopefully, a generous tip). Little did he know, this was just the appetizer; the main course of his career was yet to be served. However, Kolkata called him back, and he found himself behind the bar at the legendary London Pub.

His big break came with ITC Sonar Kolkata, where he spent eight years refining his skills, eventually rising to Senior Executive Banquet. With an eye for large-scale operations, he then joined Ambuja Neotia, overseeing iconic brands like Afraa Lounge & Restaurant, Afraa Deli, Afraa Creperie, The Orient, and Jhaal Farezi, ultimately taking on the role of Corporate F&B Manager. In 2015, he embarked on a new chapter as the Corporate Head – F&B Division at Karnani F&B Specialities. Here, he played a pivotal role in launching some of Kolkata’s most celebrated establishments—The GRID Microbrewery, Caldera Craft Beer, and The Almond Banquet—each a testament to his expertise and vision. Every milestone in Tanmoy’s career has shaped his approach to leadership. ITC Sonar instilled in him the importance of discipline and precision. Managing multiple brands at Ambuja Neotia taught him the nuances of brand development and large-scale operations. And building The GRID from scratch gave him hands-on experience in crafting a brand’s identity from the ground up.

A fast-paced industry like hospitality demands strategic planning and adaptability. Tanmoy excels in prioritizing tasks based on impact, leveraging delegation, and ensuring seamless communication within his team. For him, the cornerstone of excellent customer service lies in training, consistency, and a personal touch. Empowering his team and fostering a culture of continuous improvement ensures that guests receive unparalleled experiences. In an industry driven by evolving consumer preferences, staying relevant is key. Tanmoy actively networks, attends industry events, and follows global trends to keep himself informed. Whether it’s integrating sustainable practices or curating experiential dining, he ensures his brands resonate with modern audiences. He believes that success in hospitality hinges on passion, adaptability, teamwork, and an insatiable thirst for learning. His advice to aspiring professionals? Be patient, work hard, and prioritize guest satisfaction—because, in this industry, dedication always pays off.

Tanmoy with Dada Bartender — where cocktails meet conversations that are stronger than a double shot!

As Kolkata’s F&B landscape undergoes a transformation, Tanmoy envisions an era where experiential and theme-based dining take center stage. His goal is to continue pushing boundaries, launching new concepts, and mentoring the next generation of hospitality leaders. He recognizes the growing demand for sustainability, health-conscious options, and visually stunning presentations—especially among younger patrons. By continually adapting to these preferences while maintaining brand identity, he ensures that his establishments remain at the forefront of the industry.

Despite his professional expertise, Tanmoy remains a true Bengali at heart, with a deep love for classic Bengali cuisine and an unwavering affection for a well-made biryani. When it comes to cocktails, an Old Fashioned or a perfectly balanced Negroni never fails to impress him. If given the power to change one thing, he would work to shift the perception that hospitality is merely about service highlighting instead that it is an intricate blend of art, science, and business acumen.

His leadership philosophy is rooted in a simple yet profound piece of advice: "Take care of your team, and they will take care of your customers." This guiding principle has shaped his approach, ensuring that every establishment under his wing is not just a business but a legacy of warmth, excellence, and impeccable service.

From a young steward with a dream to a visionary shaping Kolkata’s hospitality scene, his story is one of relentless dedication and boundless creativity. As he continues to innovate and inspire, one thing remains certain—his impact on the industry will be felt for generations to come. His charisma and expertise have caught the eye of leading publications like t2. Check out what they had to say about Tanmoy and his incredible journey! For Tanmoy, hospitality was never just a career; it was a calling. His love for food, beverages, and the art of curating unforgettable experiences drew him into the industry. The dynamic nature of the field, combined with the opportunity to create joy through service, inspired him to pursue hotel management and carve a niche for himself.

Behind every great cocktail is a master who knows the art, the science, and the soul of mixology. Tanmoy is the architect of unforgettable nights, the alchemist of spirits, and redefining Kolkata’s hospitality scene with every shake and stir.

narrated by Tanmoy Roy

penned by Sanjay Ghosh (Dada Bartender) and Jitendra Khater

Some cocktails have a secret ingredient. Some photos do too!