Baar Baar, a culinary transplant from the vibrant streets of New York, emerges as a jubilant addition to the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Occupying the former Faith & Flower space, this gastronomic gem intricately weaves together the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine with the dynamic allure of cocktail culture. While cities like the UK and the Big Apple have long celebrated such contemporary culinary scenes, Los Angeles has yearned for the fusion of rich Indian flavors with expertly crafted cocktails—a void that Baar Baar masterfully fills.

Entering the restaurant, guests are immediately enveloped in an ambiance of saturated color, opulence, and refinement. Turquoise tufted banquette seats, sprawling booths, and resplendent chandeliers set the stage for an unforgettable dining affair. Adding an extra layer of visual intrigue to the already captivating ambiance is the stunning mural by acclaimed artist Jess Kollar, infusing the space with whimsy and sophistication.

The expansive bar area, presided over by the skilled and charismatic mixologist Rafael invites patrons to indulge in libations inspired by the glamour of Bollywood. Consider the “Sholay,” a playful homage to the iconic Bollywood dacoit film, featuring curry-leaf infused rum, Malibu, and vanilla liqueur. Then there’s the “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,” a tantalizing blend of tequila, tamarind, and aged balsamic, and the refreshing “Lagaan,” a harmonious fusion of vodka, honeydew melon, and kale. Each cocktail is a unique journey of exotic flavors, enticingly easy to savor with every sip, dangerously delicious.

Guiding this gastronomic voyage is Chef Sujan Sarkar, one of India’s luminaries, whose illustrious career has spanned continents. Sarkar honed his craft in London before returning to India to become a primary force behind the country’s first artisanal cocktail bar, Ek Bar. Drawing inspiration from the local bounty and cultural tapestry of Los Angeles, he now seamlessly melds indigenous flavors with traditional Indian fare, resulting in a menu that delights and surprises Angelenos at every turn. During our visit, Head Chef, Karan Mittal, himself a culinary star, passionately guided our journey with courses that continued to surprise and delight.

Baar Baar’s inventive appetizers, like the Sweet Potato Chat and Dahi Puri—a tantalizing blend of avocado, tamarind, and yogurt mousse—elevate street food to new heights of taste and refinement. For those craving a fusion of LA flair with Indian flavors, options like the Tuna Bhel—tartare kissed with passion fruit and avocado, and served with crispy chips—provide a delightful twist; as does the Kashmiri Duck Taco, which pays homage to LA’s beloved birria tradition while infusing it with Indian spices. From succulent proteins like the Lamb Shank Roast, infused with Nihari gravy and aromatic herbs, to the spicy indulgence of Shrimp Ghee Roast—where plump prawns are enveloped in rich spices and served alongside Masala Pao buns and fried green chili pepper—Baar Baar’s menu is consistently excellent, a testament to Sarkar’s mastery. No meal is complete without desserts, and here, a little indulgence is even more requisite. Their Carrot Halwa cake, a decadent twist on a traditional favorite, marries the rich sweetness of carrot halwa with the allure of a moist cake.

If one’s destiny is in their name, then it’s no wonder you’ll feel drawn back to Baar Baar, echoing its essence—an open invitation to relish its flavors ‘baar baar,’ time and time again.

— G. Dhalla

Baar Baar Los Angeles 705 West 9th St, Los Angeles, California 90015 www.baarbaarla.com or on Instagram @baarbaarlosangeles