New York Times names Vancouver speakeasy one of the most alluring hidden bars in the world

Vancouver’s Bagheera is no stranger to accolades from around the world, winning awards like best new bar in Canada and landing itself on the list of Canada’s 50 Best Bars. Now, the hidden bar has a new title to add to the growing list.

Bagheera was just named one of the 10 of the world’s most alluring hidden bars by the New York Times.

“All bets are off when you walk into the Happy Valley Turf Club, a horse-betting shop on a main street of Vancouver’s Chinatown. A broad chalkboard lists horses’ names and odds, but just tell the person at the desk you’re wagering “$100 on King Louie” and you’re granted access to Bagheera,” said the New York Times.

“Named for the black panther in Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book,” the bar evokes a sumptuous train carriage straight out of Raj-era India. Whimsical jungle-themed murals, carved teak, tassel-garlanded furniture and an arched ceiling bedazzled with Indian coins, bangles and other shiny objects form the backdrop for drinks that highlight South Asian-inspired ingredients, like coriander and various teas.”

Bagheera took to Instagram to thank the New York Times, as well as author Liza Weisstuch, for the accolade, saying that they were honoured to be included among other great bars around the world like Lockdown in Hong Kong and Floreria Atlantico from Argentina. 

 

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Opened in 2023, Bagheera is brought to us by Lewis Hart and Brij Rathi, co-owners and co-founders of Three Kingdoms Hospitality and are also part of the team that created the Shanghai-inspired Chinatown speakeasy Laowai.

Cocktails here are period-inspired and named after various Kipling works, and incorporate uncommon ingredients like saffron-infused gin and smoked paprika, to name a few.

As for bites, Bagheera offers a delightful pakora menu offering guests meat, veggie, seafood, and vegan options, alongside share plates.

Bagheera

Address: Behind Happy Valley Turf Club — 518 Main Street, Vancouver
To Enter: Place your bet on “King Louie”

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With files from Hanna McLean