Bengaluru : 403 Forbidden Bar, Bengaluru’s immersive cocktail destination known for its concept-led hospitality experiences, announces SYSTEM_OVERRIDE The Art of Japanese Mixology, an exclusive one-night-only bar takeover in collaboration with Yakoboku, the celebrated cocktail bar from Kumamoto, Japan, ranked No. 25 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025 and Conosh, an Indian platform that is pioneering immersive dining experiences and global culinary learning. Taking place on 21st May from 6 PM onwards, the evening brings together internationally acclaimed Japanese bartenders Shinya Koba and Ryunosuke Fujita alongside Aman Dua for a deeply curated exploration of Japanese cocktail craftsmanship.
Rooted in precision, balance, and quiet elegance, Japanese mixology is globally revered for its disciplined techniques, meticulous attention to detail, and deep respect for ingredients and hospitality. Every cocktail is approached with intention, where craftsmanship, restraint, and sensory harmony come together to create an experience that feels both immersive and deeply personal.
At the centre of the experience is Yakoboku, a minimalist cocktail bar housed within a restored 150-year-old former ryokan in Kumamoto, Japan. Led by acclaimed bartender Shinya Koba, Yakoboku has earned international recognition for its refined cocktail philosophy that celebrates seasonal Japanese ingredients, local flavours, and understated craftsmanship. The bar debuted at No. 25 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, establishing itself as one of Japan’s most exciting contemporary cocktail destinations.
Designed as an immersive and elevated showcase of Japanese cocktail culture, SYSTEM_OVERRIDE moves beyond the traditional guest shift format to create a thoughtfully composed sensory experience. The evening will feature an exclusive cocktail programme inspired by Japanese ingredients, modern mixology techniques, and Yakoboku’s globally recognised philosophy of minimal yet expressive drinking experiences.
The collaboration also reflects 403 Forbidden Bar’s continued vision of bringing globally celebrated bar programmes and hospitality narratives to Bengaluru through highly intentional and experiential showcases. Set within the cinematic and immersive world of 403 Forbidden Bar, the takeover invites guests into an atmosphere where storytelling, technique, and hospitality intersect seamlessly.
Speaking about the collaboration, Shinya Koba, Founder of Yakoboku, shares, “Japanese bartending is deeply rooted in care, precision, and creating meaningful moments for guests. Bringing Yakoboku to Bengaluru is an opportunity to share a part of our culture through cocktails, hospitality, and human connection.”
Neha Malik & Vaibhav Bahl, Co-founders, Conosh, remarked on the upcoming event: “Bringing Yakoboku to India is incredibly special for us because it introduces audiences to a style of Japanese mixology that is deeply intentional. Through Conosh, our vision has always been to create experiences that go beyond a typical night out, experiences that feel immersive, memorable, and globally relevant. With this takeover, we are showcasing exceptional cocktails and creating a space for people to engage with the precision and storytelling that define Japan’s contemporary bar culture. We are thrilled to connect India’s growing hospitality audience with some of the most exciting culinary and beverage talents from around the world.”
Speaking about the collaboration, Aman Dua, Co-Founder of 403 Forbidden Bar, adds, “With SYSTEM_OVERRIDE, we wanted to create an experience that feels immersive, elevated, and culturally expressive. Yakoboku’s philosophy aligns beautifully with our approach towards hospitality and storytelling, making this collaboration incredibly special for us.”
With limited seating and a globally celebrated bar programme at its core, SYSTEM_OVERRIDE promises an intimate evening of refined cocktails, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange, bringing the spirit of contemporary Japanese mixology to Bengaluru for one unforgettable night.
Fact Sheet
Venue: 403 Forbidden Bar, Bengaluru
Event: SYSTEM_OVERRIDE: The Art of Japanese Mixology, featuring Ryunosuke Fujita, Shinya Koba & Aman Dua
Date: 21st May 2026
Time: 6:00 PM onwards
Reservations: 90713 17446
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/403dn.bar/