A few bars across the country include retro leather couches, carefree music, and expertly mixed drinks—all in a setting so private that passcodes and hidden doors are required. These locations, which are reminiscent of the American Prohibition era, provide a very different experience from the widely available breweries and cocktail bars in the drinking community.
In England and Ireland, illegal bars have long been used as cloak-and-dagger locations. But they really took off in the 1920s when the United States Constitution's Eighteenth Amendment outlawed alcohol use. Known as speakeasy bars, these locations started popping up all over America in peaceful corners of residential colonies, deep nooks of opulent nightclubs, and basements. A powerful attraction! They provided protection from the law and the daily struggle of life. After a few years, alcohol was no longer prohibited. But the allure of quiet nooks, mysterious atmosphere, strong drinks, and exclusivity stayed around.
India's bar culture is booming, with elegant speakeasies, iconic mainstays, and the newest additions. However, with so many options, it might be difficult to decide where to make a reservation. The most notable speakeasy bars in India are listed below, carefully chosen. They are all known for their mind-blowing cocktails and unforgettable ambiance that will last longer than you could have imagined.
1. Harp By Maruchi, New Delhi
This dramatic speakeasy bar aims to add an aura of mystery and sophistication to the vibrant nightlife of the capital city while providing the most magnificent experiences. The cozy atmosphere is enhanced with dark wood decorations and opulent leather and velvet furniture that is only accessible with a secret code. Complete with a 20-seat outside area and a cigar lounge. With eight signature Prohibition-era drinks named after famous songs and created according to the musical scale, the menu pays tribute to the 1920s. These go really well with their varied bar bites, which include Mezze platters, Portobello kebabs, and more. Best part? The venue presents stand-up comedy shows, live music events, and more every Wednesday through Friday. We don't know what could be more fascinating than that.
Timings- 12:30 pm - 1 am
Address: First Floor, Sri Aurobindo Marg, Qutab Golf Course, Lado Sarai
Video Credit: Youtube/Tipsy Bartender
2. Cocktails And Dreams, Gurgaon
India's one of the finest mixologists, Yangdup Lama, is in charge of this establishment, which is one of the 30 Best Bars in the nation. Considered a "bartenders' bar," it lacks a set cocktail menu; instead, customers must converse with the staff behind the bar to have them create something new every time. But there's a lot of food to choose from, including a variety of momos (pork and chicken are especially suggested), chicken wings, paprika fries, sliders, fish dishes, and spaghetti. You will love their Tibetan delicacies because the portions are large, make sure to consult the staff before placing your order. Jazz music is dominant in the music option, and the energetic yet relaxed atmosphere raises the ante on everything. Avoid missing out!
Timings- 5 pm - 2 am
Address: SCO 23, Sector 15, Gurgaon
3. Izumi, Assgao, Goa
Izumi, located in the ultra-sophisticated boutique guesthouse Botanique, is a nice place to hang out in beautiful surroundings with some seriously good sushi and cocktails. The creative, well-balanced, and uniquely flavorful drinks, made with Japanese ingredients, are sure to impress. If you love gin, the shiso negroni will never let you down. Dangerously addicting is Yuzu-kazi, another gin-based beverage enhanced with Japanese lime and fermented chili paste.
Timings- 12:30 - 4 pm, 7 - 11:30 pm
Address: Botanique, 45/1, Mapusa-Assagao-Anjuna Road, Assagao, Bardez, Goa.
Also Read: 9 Great Bars In Mumbai You Need to Visit
4. ZLB 23, The Leela Palace, Bengaluru
With its secret entrance, thick velvet drapes, and crystal chandeliers, this speakeasy created by MAIA Designs' Shruti Jaipuria will take you straight to the Prohibition Era. Lux fabrics from Nilaya x Sabyasachi Mukherjee by Asian Paints enhance the dark atmosphere. You can ask the bartender for advice, but the only thing that truly matters is a traditional Sazerac made with Templeton rye, absinthe, and Peychaud bitters. Before serving they will smoke the Old Fashion with homemade fennel syrup, angostura, and Tenjaku Japanese whisky on the table. Connoisseurs will adore the superb assortment of whisky, gin, and tequila.
Timings- 6:30 pm - 1 am
Address: The Leela Palace Bengaluru, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru
6. 10 Speakeasy, Bangalore
This newcomer to the bar scene in Bengaluru is a sultry and attractive speakeasy. The entrance needs a secret passcode to be accessed and is hidden behind a paan shop in Ashok Nagar. With a long, opulent 40-foot bar, Bengaluru-based architect and designer Anshul Chodha gave the place a Great Gatsby feel. On the menu you will get dishes from Peru, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and pan-Asia; pulled pork tacos, tacos with avocado and prawn salsa, and mango and palm heart ceviche are all very well-liked. The main draw is the menu of carefully crafted cocktails that explore a variety of spirits, which is overseen by the owner of Cocktails and Dreams Yangdup Lama, a renowned bartender. But the whiskey mixtures are definitely worth trying, and they include a nutty Old Fashioned with walnut-infused whiskey and a silky vanilla daiquiri.
Timings- 6 pm - 1 am
Address: No. 76-63, No.10, BBMP PID, 10, Wood St, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025
7. Saz, BKC, Mumbai
This American Brasserie, named after the iconic Sazerac drink from New Orleans, has a long, serpentine bar that draws your attention before you notice the other details, such as the Italian marble, brass façade, amusing artwork, and enormous mural of a lady. You want to settle down and spend a while because of the sensual lounge atmosphere. There's no lack of enjoyable beverages either. Consider Saz's unique take on tequila Collins, the Coa & Co. The Truffle Sazerac, made with Templeton Rye infused with truffle, is perfect for those seeking depth in their cocktail. Paloma Di Maya, a delicious and delightful take on the traditional with kaffir syrup and a togarashi salt rim, is the most popular from the menu.
Timings- Sunday to Thursday- 12 - 11:30 pm
Friday & Saturday- 12 pm - 1 am
Address: Ground Floor, Jio World Drive Mall, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East.