The Back Room Opens in Chandigarh as India’s First Pour-Only Cocktail Bar
By Sitaram Mewati
Chandigarh has added a new destination to its hospitality landscape with the opening of The Back Room, a cocktail bar at The Toy Hotel, Sector 34B. Founded by Saanya and Akshay Verma of VTC Group, the venue introduces what its founders describe as India’s first pour-only cocktail programme.
The concept focuses on consistency and precision. Cocktails are developed, tested and measured in the bar’s dedicated laboratory before being batched, rested and sealed in large-format bottles. During service, drinks are poured at the table rather than shaken or stirred to order.
The cocktail programme has been created by Beverage Director Tanka Gurung. Drawing inspiration from Chandigarh’s numbered sectors, the menu uses three-digit codes instead of conventional cocktail names. The digits indicate the drink’s base spirit, method and flavour profile, allowing guests to order by “coordinate”.
The food menu has been developed by Chef Megha Kohli and Noah Barnes of Logic Hospitality. Designed specifically to complement the drinks, it features globally influenced small plates across categories including Fresh, Street, Fire and Slow & Smoky. Dishes include pani puri-inspired agua chile, jhol momos, chilli-coconut corn ribs, plancha prawns and burrata with charred peppers.
“We’ve always believed that truly memorable hospitality experiences become destinations in their own right. The Back Room is our most personal project yet. It isn’t simply about opening another bar; it’s about creating a space that changes the way people think about cocktails,” said Saanya and Akshay Verma.
The interiors have been designed by French interior architect Jean-Louis Deniot. A racetrack-shaped community bar in dark stone and brass forms the centrepiece, complemented by brass detailing, suspended globe lights and sculptural furnishings. A garden room and outdoor terrace provide additional spaces.
Open from noon until late, seven days a week, The Back Room adds a contemporary cocktail destination to Chandigarh’s evolving hospitality scene. Indicative pricing is approximately ₹4,000 per person for two cocktails and tapas.
