Bar Paradox: The New Cocktail Playground from the Masque Team

In a quiet lane of Mahalakshmi’s old mill district, something strange—and striking—has surfaced. Tucked inside Shree Laxmi Woollen Mills, right opposite a pizza bakery, is a cocktail bar that doesn’t just defy expectations—it rewrites them.

An exquisite blend of Art Deco elegance and whimsical fantasy, Bar Paradox features deep blue tones, intricate gold detailing, and luxurious furnishings, creating a sophisticated yet enchanting ambiance.

Welcome to Bar Paradox, the newest concept from Aditi and Aditya Dugar, the duo behind Masque, India’s #1 restaurant on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025. And much like Masque, this one doesn’t follow rules—it makes its own.

Paradox: A Menu That Questions, Not Answers

Ankush Gamre's innovative cocktail, "Fidget Spinner," elegantly balances indulgence and sharpness, captivating the senses with its intricate textures and stories

At the helm of the bar is Ankush Gamre, Masque’s head mixologist, now unhinged (in the best way possible). His creations here are fluid yet structured, indulgent yet sharp. Every cocktail is built to challenge your palate—layered with technique, textures, and stories.

Take the Cthulhu—a briny oceanic number kissed by citrus and squid ink. Or the Prodigal Son, a rich, decadent pour that feels like velvet and rebellion in one glass. And then there’s The Spice Merchant, which doesn’t yell heat, but whispers it in waves. These drinks aren’t just mixed; they’re crafted. On tap or not, every glass nudges you to lean in, sip slow, and maybe even question everything you thought you knew about what a cocktail could be.

Food That Breaks the Mould

A tantalizing dish of bone marrow charred over embers by Chef Varun Totlani, paired with crispy chips and fresh herbs, perfect for those who crave a fiery feast.

Chef Varun Totlani brings his signature irreverence to the food menu. You’ll find dishes that dare you to think twice—like Halloumi with Poha, or a PB&J made with smoked pork and deep berry glaze. Don’t ask why it works—just take the bite. And if you’re the kind who likes a little fire with your feast, the bone marrow charred over embers might just ruin you for all other versions.

Design That Reveals Itself in Layers

An intimate glimpse into Bar Paradox's private dining tent, where Art Deco meets surreal whimsy. Draped in Peter D’Ascoli and Avinash Veeraraghavan’s rich textiles, this Ashiesh Shah masterpiece invites guests into a world of hidden secrets and imaginative design.

Bar Paradox is visually immersive—equal parts Art Deco and Alice in Wonderland. Designed by Ashiesh Shah, the space is a masterclass in contrast. Enter through a glass-vitrined corridor lined with classic chequered floors. Upstairs, it’s dark, moody, and centred around a rich burlwood bar. Downstairs, the kitchen glows and the conversations linger longer.

From deep green leather walls to hand-embroidered silk panels depicting a midnight forest, no element here is accidental. Even the private dining tent, layered in Peter D’Ascoli and Avinash Veeraraghavan’s textiles, feels like a secret waiting to be uncovered. It’s luxe, but not loud. Refined, but a little disobedient. Just like the drinks.

A mesmerizing blend of elegance and allure at Bar Paradox, where each drink is an invitation to a new realm of indulgence and discovery.

The Verdict

Bar Paradox isn’t just a bar—it’s a mood, a moment, a masterclass. It’s the kind of place you don’t just visit. You return to, again and again, hoping to catch what you missed the first time.

Come for the drinks. Stay for the fire. Leave with a new definition of indulgence.

📍 Bar ParadoxG17, opposite TwentySeven Pizza & Bakes, Shree Laxmi Woollen Mills, off E Moses Road, Shakti Mills Lane, Mahalakshmi, Mumbai - 400011

📞 For reservations: 8484846660

✉️ contact@barparadox.com

🕕 Open Tuesday to Sunday, 6 PM to 1:30 AM

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