In early 2023, the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) revealed that India had become the world’s biggest buyer of Scotch whisky by volume. SWA reported that whisky manufacturers exported 219 million bottles to India, up by 60percent over 2021 volumes. India overtook France as the world’s biggest buyer of Scotch whisky by volume. Bengaluru’s whisky aficionados are among a large set of well-heeled Indians who are continuing to fuel India’s growing obsession for fine whiskies. The city has its share of single malt clubs and whisky collectives where connoisseurs share notes and appreciate fine global and Indian whiskies. The city’s finer bars are now stocking more international and Indian labels than ever before. We round up some of the finest spots in the city for whisky aficionados.
Here’re 7 Whisky Bars You Must Try In Bengaluru:
1. The Collection, Four Seasons Bengaluru:
Positioned as the Whisky Bar at the Four Seasons, this intimate bar is located on the lobby level. It’s one of the only dedicated whisky bars in the city and has become one of the meeting places for the city’s self-confessed whisky enthusiasts. Their trained whiskey sommeliers know their whisky – The Collection has one of the largest collection of Indian single malts and premium whiskies from around the world. Some of these whiskies also play out in artisanal cocktails that are paired with their gourmet hors d’oeuvres.
Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru at Embassy One, Mekhri Circle
2. The Library Bar, The Leela Palace Bengaluru:
A throwback to the Bangalore of old. Leather and dark-wood interiors evoke images of a Victorian era bar that combines with Indian opulence. This relaxed, almost cosy bar located on the lobby level is the perfect space to raise a toast with your friends or co-workers. It offers a fine selection of whiskies, wines and Armagnacs aside from an array of whisky-based cocktails.
The Leela Palace Bengaluru, Old Airport Road
Also Read: Which Is The Best Bar In India? Asia’s 50 Best Bars List Reveals
Photo Credit: library bar
3. Highland Nectar, ITC Gardenia Begaluru:
The name is a giveaway. This is one of the first hotel bars to make a strong pitch for its whisky collection, this lounge bar has been reimagined after a recent makeover. Highland Nectar has opted for an avantgarde design with contemporary and minimalist decor. It’s the perfect place for Friday night cocktails with your co-workers. The food menu has also been refreshed as part of the makeover.
ITC Gardenia, Residency Road
4. The Whiskey Bar, Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru:
One of the only dedicated whisky bars in the city, this bar offers a serene setting. Flashes of blue dominate the interiors at The Whiskey Bar, that offers one of the longest ‘happy hours’ in the city with special offers. The bar’s whisky cocktails are a big draw with everything from Indian malts to Canadian malts in the mix.
Radisson Blu Atria Bengaluru, Palace Road
Also Read: 8 Best Rooftop Bars And Restaurants In Bengaluru You Must Visit
Photo Credit: The Whiskey Bar, Radisson Blu Atria
5. Pangeo, Bengaluru:
It’s one of the newest bars in the city and at 16,000 sq. ft. (with seating for 450) it’s also one of largest new launches. Pangeo takes its name from Pangea – the supercontinent that brings the world together. True to its name, it is a fusion of cultures, flavours and sensations and takes you on a culinary journey around the world. Pangeo is also home the Chivas XV lounge that is a hub for those seeking fine malts.
Forum Rex Mall, Brigade Road
6. Toast and Tonic, Bengaluru:
If there’s one spot in Bengaluru that aces their Old Fashioned, it’s Toast and Tonic with a unique bacon-infused Bourbon. The interiors seek inspiration from 1960s Manhattan, especially the free-thinking culture of East Village. The Gin and tonics might be their big draw but their small plates and whiskies have our attention too.
Wood Street, Ashok Nagar.
Photo Credit: Toast and Tonic
7. The Polo Club, The Oberoi Bengaluru:
An oasis of sorts with sweeping views of the hotel’s lush green garden. Most regulars make a beeline for the open air patio especially once the sun goes down. The indoor area is the best spot for sundowners with its intimate green booths. This versatile bar swings from a laidback spot to a lively nightspot when their live band takes over. The Polo Club also offers one of the city’s finest selection of fine single malts and blends.
The Oberoi Bengaluru, MG Road