Bengaluru's cocktail scene is set for an international collaboration as Hope & Sesame, ranked No. 1 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026 list, takes over ZLB23 at The Leela Palace Bengaluru for one night on 31 October 2026. The event will bring together the cocktail culture of Guangzhou, China, and one of Bengaluru's recognised cocktail destinations.

Starting at 8 PM, bartenders Bastien Ciocca and Geumseong Liu will take over the bar, introducing guests to Hope & Sesame's approach to modern mixology, with a focus on creative techniques, Chinese ingredients and contemporary cocktail concepts.

Founded 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 reputation around warm hospitality, experimental mixology, seasonal concepts and the use of local ingredients. Its approach combines traditional influences with contemporary techniques to create distinctive cocktail experiences.

The bar's international recognition has continued to grow over the years. In 2026, Hope & Sesame reached the top position on Asia's 50 Best Bars list and was named The Best Bar in Mainland China. It also made its debut on The World's 50 Best Bars list in 2025 at No. 29. Its industry recognition includes the Philanthropy Award at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in 2020 and Best International Cocktail Bar in Asia-Pacific recognition in 2024.

The takeover finds a fitting setting at ZLB23, the Kyoto-inspired speakeasy at The Leela Palace Bengaluru. Located behind a hidden entrance within Zia's garden, the bar has hosted international bar collaborations and bartenders, creating opportunities for Bengaluru's cocktail enthusiasts to experience different approaches to the craft.

The event also coincides with Hope & Sesame's 10th anniversary in 2026, marking a decade of experimentation and growth in the international cocktail scene. Through this collaboration, the Guangzhou-based bar will bring its signature style of mixology and hospitality to Bengaluru for a single evening.

From experimental cocktails to creative techniques and ingredients inspired by Chinese culinary traditions, the takeover offers guests an opportunity to experience the philosophy behind one of Asia's leading bars without leaving the city.

Two bartenders, one of Asia's most celebrated bars and one evening bringing Guangzhou's cocktail culture to Bengaluru.

Event Details

What: Hope & Sesame Bar Takeover
Venue: ZLB23, The Leela Palace Bengaluru, 23, Airport Road, Kodihalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Date: Saturday, 31 October 2026
Time: 8 PM onwards
Bartenders: Bastien Ciocca and Geumseong Liu
Bar: Hope & Sesame, Guangzhou, China.