FIRST LOOK

It's a trippy entrance, we can't figure out where the front door is. A facade of black-and-white marble and see-through glass depicts stop, play and pause signs. From outside, we spot a performance stage with wrought-iron art that reads 'Exist or Live'. We push play, and the glass doors slide open. We walk in and notice the bar. It's a boom box, with round speakers cut out to highlight the bartenders at work. The architect, Priyank Mehta has added a touch of equalizer lights that makes the stereo come alive. Lined by diner sofa seating on both sides, the centre features a high-seating community table, followed by lower tables to ensure all eyes are on the performance. There's no artist crooning as our visit is a preview, but owner Vishal Gurnani tells us that the focus will be on an all-day live concept. Their artiste line-up will include the likes of Ali Merchant and international artistes, including Olly Esse and Julia Bliss.