With its dim lighting, red accents, and opulent Chinese decor, Siren makes a dramatic entrance into Bengaluru’s cocktail scene, inspired by the mythical sirens that lured sailors to the seas. Set on the second floor of a Lavelle Road building, where Olive Group’s Cantan restaurant used to be, Siren presents a stylish new twist on a night out, offering a mix of innovative cocktails and Chinese-inspired bites
The Vision Behind Siren
Siren is the latest concept from AD Singh, Founder and MD of Olive Group, in collaboration with Tushar Fernandes and Nikhil Chittiappa of Silverback Ventures LLP. This bar draws from China’s cultural richness, celebrating its festivals, flavors, and ingredients in both cocktails and dishes. The bar program is crafted by Countertop India, led by Pankaj Balachandran, the team behind Goa’s acclaimed Tesouro. Chef Martin Gomes has designed a menu inspired by Chinese cuisine, presenting an inventive array of small plates that complement the handcrafted cocktails.
The interiors, curated by Sabina Singh, Design Director at Olive, set a moody yet vibrant atmosphere. From the antique canoe transformed into a glowing light feature to the illuminated red dragon above the bar, the space captivates with its theatrical decor. Guests can enjoy the ambiance from seating areas behind lush plants and clusters of retro Chinese lanterns, creating an immersive experience for up to 70 people.
Cocktails that Tell Stories
Siren’s cocktail menu is steeped in cultural references, inspired by China’s festivals and traditions. Twelve of the twenty drinks are unique signature blends, while eight classic cocktails round out the selection. Nikhil Chittiappa, co-founder of Siren, says, “Our idea was to celebrate culture and ingredients that connect with the guests.”
The Spring Sunsets cocktail, made with vodka, Martini Fiero, peach water, and fluffy orange juice, celebrates the Spring Festival. Another popular choice, Double Seven, nods to China’s Valentine’s Day, blending Scotch, Rosso Vermouth, and strawberry syrup with a dash of chocolate powder for a romantic twist. The Remember Jie, named for the Qingming Festival, mixes chrysanthemum gin with Cointreau, elderflower syrup, and lemon juice in a floral take on a gin sour. Whisper in the Sky combines peach, orchids, and sesame into a light, fruity tribute to the Lantern Festival.
For adventurous palates, the Bang Bang cocktail plays off the famous Sichuan Bang Bang chicken, mixing tequila with Bang Bang sauce, lime juice, and a touch of Tabasco for a bold, spicy punch. And the daring Peking Duck cocktail features duck fat-washed whisky, plum juice, and Hoisin sauce, delivering an unusual yet delightful sweet-savory profile.
Small Plates with Big Flavor
Siren’s food menu emphasizes Chinese-inspired small plates, crafted to pair well with the bar’s inventive cocktails. Guests can start with Century Peanuts, marinated in soy for two weeks, or the crunchy Balloon Prawns, deep-fried with a spicy soy dip. Signature items include the sticky, tender Pork Ribs, Chef Gomes’s favorite Cream Cheese & Truffle Oil Dim Sum, and the fiery Crispy Chicken with Blistered Red Chillies.
For vegetarians, options include Stir Fry Assorted Mushroom, Grilled Tofu with Smoked Pepper, and Crispy Konjee Shiitake. Traditional Chinese comfort foods like Hakka Noodles and Fried Rice make up the main courses, available with a choice of vegetables, chicken, or beef.
A Space for All Occasions
Siren brings a fresh energy to Bengaluru’s nightlife with its unique drinks, sultry setting, and thoughtfully crafted small plates. The bar’s welcoming ambiance makes it ideal for everything from catching up with friends to romantic date nights. AD Singh explains, “We wanted Siren to be an all-round sensory experience, a place where people can plan their evenings around great cocktails and an engaging environment.”
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