During the Prohibition era (1920-1933), Americans found a clever way to lift their spirits without risking jail time. Ingenious shop owners created secret rooms within their establishments, accessible only through secret codes and messages. While speakeasies started of necessity, they've maintained their popularity due to their sheer cool factor. After all, who doesn't want to feel like a secret spy, sipping a Martini shaken, not stirred? In that spirit, we've rounded up seven of the most well-known speakeasies in India.
10 Speakeasy, Bangalore
10 Speakeasy hides behind a paan shop and requires a secret passcode for entry. Once inside, you’re transported to the Gatsby era, thanks to architect Anshul Chodha's design featuring a 40-foot bar, golden lights, and jazz tunes. Crafted by mixologist Yangdup Lama, the cocktails—like the Vanilla Daiquiri and Walnut-infused Old Fashioned—are a highlight. Pair them with Asian-inspired dishes like Vegetarian California Roll and Grilled Harissa Prawns.
Slink & Bardot, Mumbai
Tucked away in Mumbai, Slink & Bardot has earned global recognition since 2017. Initially an electronic music venue, it now offers French cuisine and a unique bar experience. The space, originally designed by Pavitra Rajaram, features four distinct rooms, each with a different vibe. The menu, crafted by chef Alexis Gielbaum and manager Nick Harrison, offers French dishes with a twist, using local ingredients.
After a brief pandemic hiatus, Slink & Bardot reopened in 2022 with a fresh look and new dishes like Quail Egg With Tamagoyaki Foam. Mixologist Santosh Kukreti’s innovative drinks, like a jackfruit cocktail and the Meloma, add to the experience.
Pass Code Only (PCO), Delhi and Mumbai
India’s first speakeasy, PCO, opened in Delhi in 2012. Founded by mixologist Yangdup Lama and the Dhariwal siblings, it requires a secret passcode for entry. The 1900s-themed bar offers rotating cocktails like the Clovers Club and Bees Knees, which you enjoy with the rustic vibe the bar provides. PCO expanded to Mumbai in 2021, offering an 80-seater bar with Art Deco aesthetics. The menu, overseen by chef Hanoze Shroff, blends playful cocktails and delectable bites. Stay connected through their Instagram for the latest passcodes.
Gin Joint, Goa
Hidden in the Goan hills, Gin Joint offers a rustic ambience focusing on Indian small-batch gins. Their unique cocktails, made with floral syrups and local ingredients, are perfect for a pre-dinner tipple or a birthday celebration. Just make sure you don’t get lost on the way there!
ZLB 23, Bangalore
Located in Leela Palace Bengaluru, ZLB 23 boasts Sabyasachi-designed upholstery, crystal chandeliers, and a grand piano. The menu celebrates the Prohibition era with cocktails like The Pale Man and Monkey Gland. Access is granted through Instagram messages to the gatekeeper, Zia.
Koi Bar, The St. Regis Mumbai
Perched on the 37th floor of The St. Regis Mumbai, Koi Bar offers a sophisticated drinking experience with panoramic city views. Known for its precision and refinement, Koi is where connoisseurs can savour meticulously crafted cocktails.
Cocktails and Dreams, Gurgaon
Ranked among the country's 30 Best Bars, Cocktails and Dreams is run by renowned bartender Yangdup Lama. This ‘bartenders’ bar’ offers a unique experience with no set drinks menu; instead, bartenders create custom cocktails based on your preferences. The food menu is extensive, featuring delicious options like pork and chicken momos, chicken wings, paprika fries, sliders, fish dishes, and pasta. Tibetan specialities are a highlight, and portion sizes are large, so consult with the servers before ordering. The bar’s atmosphere is a blend of lively and laid-back, with jazz tunes enhancing the vibe.
