Why this new bar in Bengaluru has a sous vide machine in its cocktail laboratory

It is dark and moody as I walk up the stairs to the newest cocktail bar on Indiranagar’s 12th Main Road (Yes, another new one). Each step has a message, written in a font reminiscent of a website, but with a clear idea: Put your phone down and enjoy the night. This is 403 Forbidden Bar, conceived by Aman Dua and Rachit Saboo, where the digital aesthetic is juxtaposed with the nostalgic.

Avocado and coconut ceviche
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

Access denied

The name of the bar is inspired by the error message you get on websites, ‘HTTP 403 forbidden’ which indicates you do not have permission to access the requested page. The concept of the bar is to stay away from digital distraction and focus on the now. The tech theme is echoed in the decor. Dimly lit with dark grays and browns, very ‘80s yuppie.

I find the cocktail programme to be more interesting than the message, which in 2026 seems superfluous. Behind the bar at 403 Forbidden is their cocktail laboratory, with sous-vide machines, centrifuge clarification devices, botanical distillers, and infusers. While those are a lot of big words, the proof of the pudding is in the tasting.

Sous-vide in my cocktail?

The menu is inspired by mixologist Aman Dua’s life experiences in various parts of India. We start with the aptly titled cocktail, Let’s Start. This is a skinny cocktail, meaning one without added sugar. The gin-based drink has a herb distillate, saline, lime juice, and a floral mist on top for fragrance. It is fresh and bright.

The On and On and On takes inspiration from chai. The gin is fused with a chai reduction, that has spices like ginger and cloves. The subtle spiciness is balanced by a mint foam and a jasmine perfume. This one is Indian in its flavours, but not too sweet. The scientific processes behind the drinks are used to make the reductions, vinegars and last sensory mists layers.

Life in a Metro cocktail at 403 Forbidden Bar
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

The food menu is limited but packs a punch. The avocado and coconut ceviche is perfect for a summer day. Cubes of avocado and cucumber are served with a punchy coconut milk broth, with a bright dressing.

The Nikkei lamb chops we try are succulent and with a warmth and heat to it. Another stand out is the paneer ghee roast, served on top of bite-sized flaky parotas. We end with a luscious Tiramisu, and a creamy and dark miso Basque cheesecake.

The digital themed gimmick aside, the bar is atmospheric, with good cocktails and music. The vibe was chic and sexy. And with its great location, 403 might be a hit in the area.

₹2,000 for two. At Indiranagar. Open from 5 PM to 12.30 AM. Sundays, 12.30PM to 12.30 AM. For more details, call 9071317446