Bengaluru, October 2026: Bengaluru’s cocktail scene is set for an international collaboration as ZLB23, the Kyoto-inspired speakeasy at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, welcomes Hope & Sesame from Guangzhou, China, for an exclusive one-night bar takeover on Saturday, 31 October 2026. Starting at 8 pm, guest bartenders Bastien Ciocca and Geumseong Liu will present the distinctive approach to cocktail-making that has propelled Hope & Sesame to the No. 1 position on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 list.
Bringing Guangzhou’s Cocktail Culture to Bengaluru
Established in March 2016 by Andrew Ho and Bastien Ciocca, Hope & Sesame is recognised as Southern China’s first speakeasy bar. Located in Guangzhou’s historic Dongshankou neighbourhood, the bar has built its identity around inventive mixology, thoughtful service and a willingness to challenge conventional cocktail-making.
Its creative philosophy draws on regional ingredients, contemporary techniques and seasonal inspirations, creating a distinctive expression of modern Chinese cocktail culture. As the bar marks its tenth anniversary in 2026, the Bengaluru takeover offers an opportunity to experience the ideas and craftsmanship that have shaped its journey.
ZLB23: A Natural Stage for Global Cocktail Collaborations
Concealed behind a discreet entrance in the garden of Zia at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, ZLB23 has developed a strong reputation for its Kyoto-inspired setting, meticulous cocktail craftsmanship and curated international bar collaborations.
The venue regularly brings acclaimed bartenders and celebrated names from the global cocktail community to Bengaluru, creating experiences that connect local audiences with evolving international drinking cultures. Its emphasis on precision, ambience and creative beverage programming makes it a fitting host for Hope & Sesame’s distinctive cocktail philosophy.
A Decade of International Recognition
Hope & Sesame’s standing in the global bar industry reflects years of experimentation, consistency and creative ambition. The bar has featured on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for eight consecutive years, beginning in 2019, before claiming the No. 1 position in 2026. It was also named The Best Bar in Mainland China for four consecutive years, from 2023 to 2026.
In 2025, the Guangzhou establishment entered The World’s 50 Best Bars list at No. 29, further strengthening its international profile.
Its achievements extend to the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards, where it received the Philanthropy Award in 2020 and was recognised as Best International Cocktail Bar in Asia-Pacific in 2024. The bar has also earned international recognition for its team and cocktail menu, including Top 10 World Honoree distinctions for Best International Bar Team and World’s Best Cocktail Menu, alongside further recognition in 2025 for Best International Bar Team and co-founder Andrew Ho as Best International Bar Mentor.
An Evening Led by Bastien Ciocca and Geumseong Liu
For the Bengaluru takeover, Bastien Ciocca and Geumseong Liu will bring Hope & Sesame’s experimental spirit to the ZLB23 bar. Guests can look forward to cocktails informed by Chinese ingredients, contemporary mixology and the creative techniques that distinguish the Guangzhou institution.
The evening will celebrate the intersection of two distinct bar identities, with ZLB23’s immersive atmosphere providing the setting for Hope & Sesame’s ingredient-led and innovation-focused approach. It also marks a milestone year for the visiting bar as it celebrates ten years of shaping Southern China’s cocktail landscape.
One Night, Two Cocktail Destinations
The collaboration brings together two establishments united by a shared commitment to hospitality, craftsmanship and pushing the boundaries of the cocktail experience. For Bengaluru’s cocktail enthusiasts, it offers a chance to engage with one of Asia’s most acclaimed bars without leaving the city.
Event Details
- Event: Hope & Sesame Bar Takeover at ZLB23
- Date: Saturday, 31 October 2026
- Time: From 8 pm onwards
- Venue: ZLB23, The Leela Palace Bengaluru
- Guest Bartenders: Bastien Ciocca and Geumseong Liu
From Guangzhou to Bengaluru, the evening promises a meeting of creative perspectives, exceptional hospitality and contemporary cocktail culture—one bar takeover, one night, and two distinctive interpretations of the art of mixology.
For Advertisment & Article Conatct :+91 7321012159