​Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025: 5 Indian bars shine on prestigious list​

The 2025 edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars was unveiled on Monday during a grand ceremony in Macau, and it marked a proud moment for India’s evolving bar scene. Five standout bars from India earned top spots, showcasing a blend of creativity, craft, and cultural storytelling.

In the vibrant heart of New Delhi lies Lair, a modern-day speakeasy inspired by the hush-hush Prohibition-era hideouts of the 1920s. With dim lighting, earthy tones, and artisanal cocktails, it creates an intimate space for deep conversations and immersive drink experiences.

Soka offers a flavourful tribute to Bengaluru, blending local stories into every sip. Designed like a cozy izakaya, the bar feels like a well-kept secret. Signature drinks like The Mofo Don—a red cabbage-tinted, tequila-based creation—highlight its playful yet bold approach to mixology.

Don’t let the name fool you—Boilermaker goes far beyond the basic whisky-beer duo. Launched by beer entrepreneur Nakul Bhonsle and mixologist Pankaj Balachandran, this bar reinvigorates Goa’s nightlife with inventive cocktails rooted in local flavors and a twist on classic Goan bar bites.

Hidden behind a kitchen and down a service lift, ZLB23 is a true speakeasy gem. With plush red velvet, live jazz, and cocktails reimagined with Japanese influences, this underground haunt brings global sophistication to the heart of Bengaluru.

At Bar Spirit Forward, passion meets precision. Known for its energetic staff and inventive cocktails, the space offers a luxurious, lounge-like setting for drink enthusiasts who value craftsmanship and layered flavors. Each drink is a story served in a glass.