FEAST | Global Flavours x Bar Asra x South Granville

"We want to celebrate the connection between cultures, ingredients, and people."

Tokyo Silk (sake, Calpico, pomegranate, and vodka) + Nigata Paper Plane (bourbon, spritz, grappa, and lemon)

South Granville—(May 9, 2025) Bar Asra, the brand new cocktail bar and restaurant, comes from seasoned Sirka chefs Kanwardeep Ahluwalia and Baldeep Singh (also co-owners) and occupies the original hundred-year-old location of the legendary Vij's and later its sister restaurant Rangoli.

beef roast (jasmine rice and fried egg)

Focusing on global and pan-Asian flavours inspired by the restaurateurs' experiences primarily in Indian cuisine, Asra boasts an experimental mishmash of international dishes, local ingredients, and varied influences in its notable menu.



It's easy to first notice the ornate contemporary design filled with flowing houseplants, golden finishes, wooden flourishes, and clean lines with a clear lounge-type vibe to its 1800-square-foot, sixty-seater restaurant, from its outdoor balcony space in waiting, hightop window seating, and casual waiting area.

Kuala Lumpur Jungle Bird (rum blend, bitter red, pineapple, lime, and molasses)

At the bar, there's a cocktail for every mood with twists on old favourites and fun new concoctions led by Bar Manager Mathew Locke. It features a healthy mix of cocktails that match all the different tastes to complement the food.

sea bass (Goan curry sauce and samphire fritters)

So far, there's a promising appeal to all the combined culinary and bartending inspirations for Bar Asra's launch. The vaguely described dishes have a great taste to them, just as the drinks delight in their variety.



Filling a much-needed void left by the recent closure of The Marquis Grill bar and lounge in the area, Bar Asra's mixture of familiar dishes and appealing cocktail program is likely to attract and serve the artsy theatre crowd from the nearby Arts Club-managed Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage as well as the Pacific Theatre, both in the neighbourhood.


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