SIDECAR, DELHI
From Features Desk
In the evolving story of India’s cocktail renaissance, few names command as much respect as Sidecar. Located into the vibrant neighbourhood of Greater Kailash II in New Delhi, Sidecar is not just a bar, it is a statement of intent, craft and cultural confidence. Frequently described as a “bartender’s bar,” Sidecar represents the coming of age of Indian mixology on the global stage.
Run by the celebrated duo Yangdup Lama and Minakshi Singh, Sidecar is a natural evolution of their pioneering work at Cocktails & Dreams, Speakeasy. The bar made history as the first from India to enter the World’s 50 Best Bars list and continues to shine with rankings among both the world’s and Asia’s best. Yet, accolades here feel incidental, Sidecar’s real achievement lies in its uncompromising focus on craft.
Spread across two thoughtfully designed floors, Sidecar offers multiple experiences under one roof. The first floor unfolds as a relaxed daytime café and cultural space, complete with a curated bookstore by Hachette. Guests can browse titles while enjoying specialty coffee and cacao, a reflection of Sidecar’s belief that great hospitality extends beyond the glass. Collaborations with like-minded, homegrown brands underline this philosophy, letting quality products speak for themselves.
The second floor is where the evening truly comes alive. A striking wall-length bar takes centre stage, stocked with inventive ingredients and meticulously crafted spirits. Sidecar’s cocktail program balances classics, seasonal offerings, and experimental creations, while also embracing zero-proof and low-proof drinks with the same seriousness as full-strength cocktails. The team produces many elements in-house-from bitters and syrups to tinctures and ferments, ensuring every drink carries a distinct signature.
Music and culture are integral to the Sidecar experience. With a dedicated live band area, the bar regularly hosts blues, country, and rock-and-roll performances designed to enhance, not overpower, conversation and cocktails. Quiz nights, book readings,
workshops and guest shifts further reinforce
Sidecar’s role as a community hub for both
patrons and industry professionals.
In 2024, Sidecar expanded its vision through Subko, introducing a specialty coffee and fine cacao program that transforms the space into a daytime destination as compelling as its nightlife avatar. Sustainability also remains central, with conscious sourcing, reusable bottles, steel straws and a strong emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients.
At its heart, Sidecar is a celebration of thoughtful indulgence, proof that Indian bars can lead global conversations without losing their soul.
