Oberoi Hotels & Resorts Welcomes Top Mixologist from Italy’s ‘Locale Firenze’ for Bar Takeovers

• Dario Banchellini from Locale Firenze will showcase exclusive cocktails at Oberoi Hotels in Mumbai and New Delhi.

Mumbai/Delhi, August 25th, 2025:: This September, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts in Mumbai and New Delhi welcome senior mixologist Dario Banchellini from Locale Firenze for exciting cocktail showcases at The Eau Bar and Cirrus 9 in partnership with The Soul Company, a creative F&B consulting firm bringing global chefs and bars to India, while partnering with restaurants, bars, and hotels nationwide on brand strategy and experience design.

Located in the picturesque Italian city of Florence, Locale Firenze is currently ranked #36 of The World’s 50 Best Bars. Locale Firenze crafts an immersive bar experience that leads guests through Florence’s rich cultural heritage with evocative cocktail blends that prioritise seasonality and minimal waste. Dario Banchellini, Locale Firenze’s head bartender, is especially known for his innovative use of contemporary and traditional techniques in flavour-forward creations.

Dario Banchellini, Head Bartender at Locale Firenze commented: “I have a deep passion for exploring innovative flavour combinations through the art of mixology. Having worked in some of Italy’s most fashionable bars, I am excited to bring a unique taste of the Mediterranean and the city of Florence to Oberoi Hotels & Resorts in Mumbai and New Delhi.”

In specially curated menus for The Eau Bar and Cirrus 9, Dario will showcase four signature cocktails from Locale Firenze. Highlights include Foglia (meaning ‘leaves’ in Italian) – a gin-based cocktail with mint and basil; No Clouds in Mexico – a blend of Tequila Anejo, Mezcal, citrus leaf and Timut pepper; Coffee Manhattan – with coffee Bourbon, coffee kombucha, Vermouth and Marsala Secco; and Seasonal Margarita – a mix of Tequila Reposado, mango, agave syrup and Peychaud’s Bitters.

Amit Kaul, Vice President & General Manager of The Oberoi, Mumbai added: “I feel there is a natural affinity with Indian and Italian cultures; the love of good food and drink, the sharing of these experiences, and a genuine warmth and heartfelt care for friends, family and in our case, cherished guests. We look forward to welcoming Dario into our fold for this exciting bar takeover and supporting him to craft a memorable experience for our clientele.”

Abhishek Panshikar, Vice President & General Manager of The Oberoi, New Delhi also said: “From the heart of Italy to the heart of the National Capital, we are delighted to host Dario Banchellini from Locale Firenze. Ranked #36 of The World’s 50 Best Bars, this exclusive event is yet another exceptional way to mark the occasion of our 60th anniversary.”

The Eau Bar at The Oberoi, Mumbai | 11th September 2025

This fashionable late-night destination has an electric vibe, art deco themed interiors and an outdoor deck with panoramic Arabian Sea views. Advance reservations can be made via +91 22 66326205 or Ishaan.Sahai@oberoihotels.com

Cirrus 9 at The Oberoi, New Delhi | 13th September 2025 | #IconTurns60

The Oberoi, New Delhi continues its 60th anniversary celebrations with this exciting bar takeover at Cirrus 9. Named after the clouds it almost touches from its heady 9th floor perch, Cirrus 9 inspires unforgettable moments beside panoramic views over Delhi’s golf course greens and the minarets of Humayun’s Tomb.

Advance reservations can be made via +91 1124304370 or Restaurantreservations.TOND@oberoihotels.com