Bar Spirit Forward

Tucked away in the heart of Bengaluru’s bustling central district, Bar Spirit Forward occupies the ground-floor space of Hotel Southern Star on Lavelle Road, offering a polished yet warm and energetic vibe. Here, the focus is unapologetically on craft cocktails — the kind where premium spirits are pre-chilled, measured with exacting precision, and poured with a show of flair. One standout example: the “3-Gin Vesper Martini”, featuring multiple gin varieties frozen and delivered with an icy finish. Another house signature, the “Southern Star”, blends tequila with fermented plum, guava and pickled jalapeño — bold, layered, and memorable. Inside, the ambience balances lounge-sleek with lively energy: dark leather seating, rattan accents, smoked glass elements and the long teak-and-granite bar that invites interaction with the bartenders. Small plates complement the drinks – think Anglo-Indian pork buns, Korean fried chicken wings and inventive bar bites tuned to the cocktail program. Recognised for its craft and atmosphere, the bar has entered the “Asia’s 50 Best Bars” list at number 37 in 2025. Visit with intention: reservations recommended, especially on weekend evenings; seating at the bar gives the best vantage of the craft show. While the menu leans heavily into spirits, the hospitality is friendly and the vibe is ideal for date nights, after-work drinks or a standout cocktail outing.