Bengaluru, 08 May 2025: Cosmo, the premium all-day dining restaurant at Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru is collaborating with PCO 2.0, India’s first speakeasy and Delhi’s favourite community bar (ranked #12 among India’s 30 Best Bars 2023 and #54 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022) for an exclusive bar takeover. On 11th May, from 7:30 PM to 11:30 PM, PCO’s Bar Manager, Vikas Kumar, will showcase the bar’s daring “Forbidden” cocktail menu at Cosmo. Spearheaded by founders Radhika and Rakshay Dhariwal, this event brings PCO’s unique, award-winning mixology and “forbidden” flavours to Bengaluru for one special night.
The highlight of the takeover will be PCO’s groundbreaking ‘The Forbidden’ menu. This bold collection of cocktails is inspired by ingredients deemed restricted or taboo across cultures, religions, or laws. The menu features 12 signature cocktails, like “Not for Check-In” with coconut, “Bad Reputation” featuring MSG, “Opium Den” infused with poppy seeds, and “Oral Fixation” playing with tobacco notes. For those preferring non-alcoholic options, Zero ABV cocktails such as “School Rules” with ketchup and “Forager’s Feat” with porcini mushroom hydrosol offer equally intriguing tastes. Complementing the drinks, a selection of tempting bar bites will be available, including Mushroom and Goat’s Cheese Croquettes, Spiced Lamb Tostadas, Black Truffle Tagliatelle, alongside classic Margherita and Pepperoni pizzas.
Leading the takeover is Vikas Kumar, Bar Manager at PCO, celebrated for his inventive approach to cocktails. With over 12 years of experience, Vikas is known for his technique-driven drinks and his knack for sourcing local ingredients. His talent earned him the Mixologist of the Year award at The Times Food & Nightlife Awards in 2023, establishing him as a pioneer in the industry.
“At PCO, we’ve always aimed to challenge the norms and create experiences that spark curiosity,” says Rakshay Dhariwal, Managing Director of PCO. “Bringing ‘The Forbidden’ to Bengaluru allows us to share our passion for groundbreaking cocktails and the speakeasy spirit with a new audience. We’re excited to see how Cosmo transforms and how Bengaluru responds.”
This partnership highlights Cosmo’s dedication to offering unique and engaging dining experiences to its guests. By joining forces with PCO 2.0, Cosmo seeks to enrich Bengaluru’s nightlife, offering patrons a taste of India’s original speakeasy culture. The takeover promises an evening of expertly mixed cocktails, surprising flavours, and a memorable atmosphere that is sure to impress.