Named after the mysteriously chic Lord Vesper—an imagined tastemaker who embodies poise, polish, and an inimitable wanderlust—the bar promises a stylish escape for city dwellers. Here, sculptural design, sharp mixology, inventive plates, and The Oberoi’s unmistakable service come together to craft evenings that feel indulgent yet effortlessly cool.
Lord Vesper may not be a real figure, but his spirit is palpable in every curve of the interiors and every beautifully composed drink. Tucked beside the gorgeous pool and wrapped in an air of opulence, Lord Vesper is the kind of bar that exudes quiet luxury. Thespace unfolds like a storyas we move through a dim, mysterious passage that opens into a circular vestibule.The indoor lounge features an architectural centrepiece in the form of an elliptical bar. From the Black Marquina marble polished to a moonlit sheen to the warm walnut teakwood, brushed brass, and expanses of glass that frame the outdoors, all the elements lend a chic warmth. But it’s the semi-covered terrace that has my heart! An open waterfront, a retractable all-season roof, and a massive bar tucked on one side, the alfresco setting is irresistible.
Inspired by the mythical persona of Lord Vesper the bar’s cocktail program is divided into stories, each drink a character, each sip a revelation. Spirit-forward but lighter in alcohol and calories, the signatures celebrate refinement over excess. I begin my evening with Speaking Strawberry, a lovely blend of Patrón Bianco, mezcal, fresh strawberry, jalapeño, and apple cider vinegar. This delicious peppery, smoky, tangy concoction has its origin in a beautiful story: a fresh strawberry plucked from Vesper’s nocturnal garden and laden with spice, smoke, and spirit. Lady Yuzu follows next; a smooth, tropical, citrus-forward drink, it’s a fine balance of sake, Aperol, yuzu, and ginger beer.
Designed under the guidance of the globally revered mixologist Giancarlo Mancino, every cocktail bears his inimitable stamp of exquisite craftsmanship and narrative-driven drinking. The ‘Secrets’ menu draws from the ingredients from Lord Vesper’s imagined garden. The signatures—Vespertini, Lady Yuzu, The Fallen Banana, Mr Fennel & Mrs Dill—are spirit-forward and celebrate contemporary mixology. However, the zero-ABV creations deserve applause. Aptly called, ‘The Virgins’, they are crisp, layered, and proudly grown-up, representing inclusivity executed with elegance.
Lord Vesper’s culinary program, much like its imagined muse, is well-travelled, discerning, and adventurous. The globally inspired menu is designed to complement the cocktails, resulting in a seamless sensory experience. Korean bao sliders, Japanese sandos, Turkish pides, and Indian plates coexist in delicious harmony. Highlights include melt-in-the-mouth Jack Daniel’s chicken wings flambéed theatrically at the table, and crackling prawns paired with a velvety Sichuan mala cream. The five-spice and honey-glazed pork belly bao is deliciously rich, the meat beautifully caramelised, and the portion size showcases how each plate is designed to be wholesome. In keeping with the overall vibe, Indian classics are reinvented with playful sophistication: tandoori chicken arrives as pot stickers; papdi chaat is elevated with avocado and corn; Kerala-style coin parathas are presented as soft-shell tacos.
In a nutshell, Lord Vesper is luxurious yet laid-back, chic yet welcoming, and offers the promise of stellar cocktails, flavour-forward food and impeccable service. It’s an oasis where high energy meets soft volume, letting conversations flow as easily as the night itself. This is the kind of bar that transcends generations— effortlessly drawing in anyone with a taste for good drinks and great atmosphere.
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.5/5
Address: The Oberoi, 443, Udyog Vihar, Phase V Gurgaon – 122016, India.
Timings: Sundays till Thursday – 5 pm till 1 am; Friday & Saturday – 5 pm till 2 am.
Phone: +91 82871 02705/ +91 124 245 1234
Email: lordvesper.togn@oberoihotels.com
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