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Delhi's nightlife is in a constant state of flux, and among the growing set of young people who can afford it, the scene is intense. Various kinds of watering hole are on offer, with the lounge bar emerging as the most successful formula. Though Delhi doesn't rival the cosmopolitan feel of Mumbai, it seems as if a new lounge opens here every week. That said, the city's somewhat stodgy reputation is still partly deserved: All the major hotels have bars, but most are better suited for a collective nap with a few tired foreigners than a night of Indian camaraderie; they still shut by midnight and many nightclubs close not much later, though there are a few all-night venues.
Hotel bars come in two stripes: those that aim for a British Raj look and an older, quieter clientele, or raucous, late-night dance clubs. Due to high taxes on alcohol, especially imported brands, drinks prices come close to those in London and New York. Those in search of late-night dancing and drinking sometimes head for the suburbs or five-star hotels, which can stay open later.
The disco scene has undergone a transformation in recent years. Select places attract top international DJs and charge cover prices to match. Slowly electronic dance music is overtaking drunk renditions of classic rock and Bollywood favorites at most places. Overly casual attire (shorts, T-shirts, sandals on men) is typically frowned on, and closing times tend to vary with the mood of the city government that month.
This wine lounge offers more than 160 wine labels from all over the world, of which 40 labels are served by the glass via Enomatic dispensers. The tapas that complement the wines include the predictable favorites like cheese platters, charcuterie boards, and marinated olives, and go on to fancier offerings like cheese-stuffed croquettas.
This sophisticated spot goes from an entrepreneur-populated coffee shop in the day to a chic wine bar in the evening, where expats and Delhi's most fashionable congregate.
Originally inspired by the 1942 film Casablanca, Rick's retains all its elegance and sophistication, with grand décor, retro beats, cozy corners, and an impressive grand piano. On top of the moody ambience, the bar's eclectic drinks---each one beautifully complex---and warm hospitality make it a reliable classic.
The large bar here is a classic watering hole decked out the way it looked in the years leading up to the end of the Raj. The drink menu is massive, and lounge music keeps the vibe contemporary.
Named for the Vedic fire god, the swanky Agni, in the Park Hotel, attracts Delhi's party crowd, playing electronic interspersed with pop, hip-hop, and Bollywood hits. The door staff can be selective.
As the name suggests, Aqua is a giant outdoor space focused on a large swimming pool surrounded with lovely cabanas. It's got a well-heeled, more sedate crowd, especially when compared to its crazy next-door neighbor, Agni.
This Mediterranean-European restaurant with a solid cocktail program is the spot for a sundowner over the most gorgeous views of the Qutub Minar. But even if you don't snag a seat on the outdoor terrace, the indoor space is equally stunning, with colorful, bohemian decor. There is a regular lineup of events and parties---check out their website for more detail.
This swanky rooftop bar at The Oberoi overlooks the lush Delhi Golf Club and attracts the city's elite crowd. The sunset view from the terrace is superb.
A buzzing restaurant-club, Diablo attracts Delhi's hip and happening crowd. The eclectic music, sufi nights, and Bollywood beats attract different folks on different days, but the place gets especially packed on weekends.
At the dark and publike Golf Bar, you're sure to hear cheesy pop and rock hits from the '80s onward (think wedding reception). Some nights it's just elderly gentlemen sipping whiskey sodas on leather couches, while other nights you may stumble on a party in full swing.
This swanky lounge and bar at Shangri-La Eros is the perfect spot for a date night, with a fine wine list and innovative cocktails---its Negroni might be close to perfection.
This vibrant, high-energy bar in the buzzing Khan Market offers crafty cocktails and spunky music, and occasionally hosts cool bar takeovers from internationally acclaimed mixologists. The best part, however, is that the food matches the top quality of drinks---from sushi to baos to salads, you'll be spoiled for choice.
This dark, moody, and monochromatic bar offers a solid range of classic and innovative cocktails.
Furnished with dark wood and leather furniture, this cozy, but still glamorous, bar has nooks surrounded by books and a solid selection of whiskeys, wines, and cigars. There is a fine, spacious terrace where you can enjoy your libations.
With breathtaking views of the Qutub Minar, Miso Sexy's glowing terrace bar is an excellent place for a sundowner and dancing to pulsating music. The bar is stocked with a respectable list of liquors and craft cocktails, while the restaurant serves pan-Asian delicacies.
This gastropub inside a striking glass pyramid has pool and foosball tables, an interesting cocktail menu, and a relaxed ambience perfect for catching up with friends.
You must dial a secret code on a rotary phone to enter PCO, Delhi's first speakeasy bar. The menu is periodically updated, though excellent mixology is a constant. Frequent jazz performances and DJ nights add to the appeal.
With live performances every night and an eclectic roster of local and international musicians, this tiny jazz bar with wood-and-brick interiors draws the capital's creative types.
While very much a hotel bar, this place can be very lively. The wood-panel room has a curved bar, a leather sofa, a library with newspapers, an oddball collection of books, and sports channels playing on TV. It's known for its collection of vintage single malts and live jazz.
Consistently earning international acclaim and recognition, Sidecar offers a program of intricate artisanal cocktails with an emphasis on Indian ingredients and drinking culture. Try their heady signature drink, Myrtle.
Blue Frog promises interesting live music from all over the country and internationally almost every night, delivered via a state-of-the-art sound system and accompanied by classy cocktails and snacks. Entry is free before 9 pm on most evenings, except for ticketed events.
Chic, chic, chic, and the cocktails are innovative and delicious: street-food-inspired concoctions include the betel-leaf martini and the sour mango mojito. It's one of the new classics in town, with a loyal following.
This laid-back lounge with plenty of low-slung couches is where expats head for quiet drinks and conversation over wood-fired pizza.
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