Conrad Bengaluru’s Scarlett Nights marked a new high for the fusion of narrative-driven mixology and opulent hospitality. Through this exclusive takeover, the elegant Bar at Conrad was transformed into a theater of liquid art, bringing the essence of Malaika Arora’s Scarlett House to the Garden City. The evening, which was led by the formidable team of Fay Barretto and Sumit Mehra, was an immersive masterclass in the “Art Is An Emotion” philosophy and went far beyond a beverage service.
The idea behind the masterclass was that a cocktail should arouse a particular emotion or memory before it even reaches the palate. Known for pushing boundaries, Fay Barretto and Sumit Mehra led guests in creating drinks that put an emphasis on storytelling. The “Bandra Babe,” a tribute to Scarlett House’s beginnings, was particularly noteworthy. It used cashew distillate and strawberry-infused gin to produce a profile that was both nostalgic and innovative. Complex emotions can be condensed into crystal-clear serves, as evidenced by the clarity of the Jameson Black Barrel blend “Nostalgia 2.0” with apple and balsamic, which showed a masterful command over milk-washing and flavor balancing. A sophisticated Chef Takeover menu that combined regional ingredients with a global flair complemented the bar takeover. The creative Nadru Galouti and Edamame Pulao Bowl and the cool Kaffir Lime Chilled Tofu were highlights. The Miso Pulled Lamb Bao ensured that the gastronomy was as technical and evocative as the mixology by offering a deep, umami-laden counterpoint to the cocktail program’s bright acidity for a richer pairing.
The “vintage chic” and “unapologetic warmth” that Malaika Arora envisioned for Scarlett House blended in perfectly with the Conrad’s lavish surroundings. Live music that matched the tempo of the trembling tins punctuated the evening, giving the city’s epicureans the impression that they were in a private salon. Scarlett Nights effectively illustrated that the contemporary bar is now a space for education and emotional connection in addition to being a place for consumption. This takeover was unquestionably a highlight of the 2026 social calendar for people who value the warmth of a well-told story combined with the technical precision of a perfectly balanced drink.
