India, Aug. 29 -- The ice rattles sharply as Yangdup Lama gives the shaker a final snap, then strains the amber liquid into a coupe. With a flourish, he places an edible motif of the Dhaka Topi-Nepal's iconic hat-on top. At first glance, the drink is just whisky, bay leaf, and lime. But I've known Yangdup long enough to know nothing he stirs up is ever that simple. Named after the handwoven Palpali Dhaka hat worn with quiet pride across Nepal, the Dhaka Topi is a drink about identity, belonging, and defiance. Bold, sharp, and layered-it wears its name well.

"Kathmandu has always felt like a second home to me," says Yangdup. "Ever since my first visit in 1993 as a hospitality school intern, I've felt a deep connection to the city. Its rhy...