The first time we were here was to meet Ronan Keating who was performing live in Bangalore and we didn't have too much time to look around. Ronan was the focus. Fast forward to a few weeks before ZLB23 was crowned India's Best Bar 2024 and claimed the 40th spot among Asia's Top 50 Best Bars 2024 by The World's 50 Best Bars, we got to dine here and fully take in the space in all its glory — a luxe space with magnetic music, captivating cocktails, and brilliant small plates.
ZLB23 is a Kyoto-style speakeasy located inside The Leela Palace and true to its speakeasy nature, it's not easy to find it. Without giving too much away, let's just say, right from texting Zia on WhatsApp to reserve a table to you walking through a busy live kitchen, there's an air of secrecy and anticipation of what's in store. And once you exit the service elevator, you are transported into a different space. You might hear jazz music coming from the inside as you make your way into the luxe lounge bar. A live kitchen, live band performance, and a lively bar ensure that you are vibing at any given time. The deep red hues, Japanese geisha-ish artwork, chandeliers, and plush seating only mean one thing — dress to the nines and make it a night to remember.
Since we had dropped by during one of their IP nights, Magnetic Music (they just wrapped season 2), we were treated to some good music as we parsed through their cocktail menu. It's Prohibition-era cocktails with a focus on Japanese whiskies and cocktails we are told by Prachi Tandon, Marcomm Director at The Leela Palace. Since only one of us was drinking, we started with a Yuzu Picante and a sober The Memoirs of Nara. And a Maguro Tataki from the small plates section. According to the writer's friend, the Picante was elegant with a hit of heat, something they would go back for more.
The writer's Nara drink paired well with the chilli miso-doused tuna in the Tataki. The Bootlegger from the Prohibition-era cocktail menu was the next to arrive while we were busy mopping the scallops clean. Citrusy and summery, the Bootlegger was almost the favourite of the night before the last of our libations for the night arrived, the Kyoto Autumn. Simply the drink of the night for us with its spring flavours, well-balanced tones, and the not too fruity aftertaste.
The few hours we spent here was a break from our usual at-home or Bob's routine. So much so we've made plans to come back with a bigger group to try more of the small plates and the cocktails.
Location: The Leela Palace Hotel, Kodihalli
Timings: 6:30 PM to 1 AM
Cost For Two: INR 5,000
