Discover India’s best restaurants with exceptional bar programmes

Gone are the days when bars were simply places to grab a drink. Today, they’re vibrant spaces where stories unfold and every sip is an experience. Across India, some bars have elevated the art of mixology with hidden entrances, vinyl vibes, beachside charm, and cocktails that leave you in awe of their brilliance. These are not your typical watering holes. From toddy-inspired concoctions to gin cocktails that evoke the essence of a garden party, these bars are redefining the nightlife experience.

Mercii, Mumbai

Mercii brings understated elegance to Mumbai’s drinking scene. With soft lighting, tasteful decor, and a warm, intimate vibe, it’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The drinks here are subtle yet complex. The Elderflower Spritz, offering a delicate balance of floral and citrus flavours, is a must-try. For a stronger kick, go for the Espresso Martini—smooth, bold, and just the right amount of indulgent. Pair your cocktails with their curated cheese platters or bruschetta, and you’ve got yourself a great evening.

Lair, Delhi

Designed with a speakeasy vibe, this bar sets offers a cocktail menu featuring reimagined classics with local ingredients. Standout drinks include the Mezcal Negroni, a smoky twist on the classic and the Black Rose Martini, blending vodka with activated charcoal and delicate floral notes. Pair these with small bites from their globally-inspired menu for the full experience. Lair’s understated charm and inventive drinks make it a must-visit for cocktail lovers.

Cobbler & Crew, Pune

With a warm, buzzing bar at its center, Cobbler & Crew is the kind of spot where bartenders remember your drink and maybe even add a twist just for you. The cocktail menu is playful and inventive. Their Oh Temptation, a mix of Aperol, tequila, strawberry wine and Puneri Bhakarwadi is a local favourite that combines bold flavours with a hint of spice. The vibe here is casual yet refined, making it a great spot for after-work drinks or weekend hangouts.

Living Room, Masque, Mumbai

The Living Room at Masque is a hidden gem for cocktail connoisseurs. They use seasonal and sustainable ingredients to craft cocktails that seem nothing less than a work of art. Their Wildflower Sour, a mix of gin, elderflower, and citrus, is a crowd favourite for its refreshing yet complex flavour. For something bold, try their Charred Citrus Old Fashioned, which brings smoky depth to a beloved classic. You will go for the cocktails but surely stay for the vibe.

The Bombay Canteen, Mumbai

The Bombay Canteen is an ode to Indian flavours and their bar programme follows the same ethos. The space bursts with vintage Bombay charm—vibrant tiles, retro posters, and a buzzing bar at the heart of it all. The bar menu takes inspiration from Indian ingredients, resulting in some truly unique cocktails. Their cocktail Phool draws inspiration from Dadar's iconic flower market. It's a floral London dry gin spritzer with a tart Umeshu twist, topped with house-made Marigold soda. You can also try their Waiting List—a highball of coconut fat-washed tequila, house-made curry leaf soda, and a curry leaf salt rim for a nutty, savory twist. Pair your cocktails with their Roasted Turnip Kulcha or Smoked Pumpkin Launji and you’re set for a great evening.

PCO, Delhi

Short for Pass Code Only, PCO is one of Delhi’s OG speakeasy bar, hidden behind an unmarked door and accessible only through a secret code. Stepping inside feels like time-travelling to the 1920s—think vintage decor, jazz music, and an air of exclusivity. The Negroni here is flawless as is their Signature Martini, both mixed to perfection and served with finesse. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet, sophisticated evening.

Slink & Bardot, Mumbai

Slink & Bardot in Mumbai exudes a moody, intimate vibe with plush seating and whimsical décor. Their cocktail menu is as chic as their interiors. The French 75 is a crowd favourite—crisp and bubbly with a citrusy edge. For something more experimental, try their Bardot’s Kiss, a heady mix of gin, pomegranate, and elderflower. The small plates menu is equally impressive. Dishes like Truffle Mac & Cheese and Escargot Butter Mushrooms make for the perfect bar snacks. 

Slow Tide, Goa

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back beach vibe, Slow Tide in Goa is exactly what you need. Located near Anjuna beach, this spot has everything a great beach bar should: rustic furniture, fairy lights strung across the trees, a soundtrack perfect for sunset cocktails, and refreshingly tropical drinks. The Coconut Mojito, a twist on the classic with fresh coconut water is a must-try. Another hit is the Passionfruit Daiquiri, which strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Slow Tide is all about savouring each moment with good company, great drinks, and the sound of the ocean in the background.

For the Record – Vinyl Bar, Bangalore

For the Record in Bangalore is a music lover’s dream, with walls lined with vinyl records, a vintage vibe, cocktails named after iconic albums and artists. You can sip on Purple Rain while grooving to the classics. The Whiskey Sour with a Twist is a crowd favourite, smooth, balanced, and always hits the right note. If you’re a gin lover, the Gin Garden cocktail with fresh herbs and cucumber is a refreshing choice. The highlight? You can request your favourite records to play while you sip away.

Bombay Daak, Mumbai

Bombay Daak is a beautiful homage to India’s past, with vintage decor and a menu inspired by regional flavours. The cosy space feels warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening of stories and sips. The cocktails reflect the theme perfectly. The Toddy Twist is a crowd favourite, combining rum with warm spices in a nod to traditional toddy. Another must-try is the Mumbai Mule, a local spin on the classic mule with hints of kokum and ginger.

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