Classics with a garnish by Michito Kaneko

Michito Kaneno of Lamp Bar in Japan will be in India for bar takeover

Michito Kaneko, founder of Lamp Bar, will be in India for an exclusive bar takeover at Akina and its Mumbai outpost. Ranked 46th on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Lamp Bar is known for its menu-free cocktail philosophy rooted in Japanese hospitality.

Michito, who won the World’s Best Bartender title at the Diageo Reserve World Class Cocktail Competition in 2015, believes the cocktail world has evolved significantly since he began, but his core philosophy remains unchanged. “The philosophy of Lamp Bar is craftsmanship. Both my parents are artists, and that background led me to incorporate elements of art into every cocktail. This fusion of craftsmanship and art defines what we do,” he says.

Unlike conventional bars, Lamp Bar does not offer a fixed menu. Instead, Michito and his team speak with each guest to understand their preferences, mood and flavour inclinations before crafting a completely bespoke cocktail. Each drink is conceived as a personalised expression of intuition, technique and hospitality.

Speaking about his ingredient-led approach for India, Michito says he plans to work with Japanese elements such as hinoki and burdock. “I want to use these ingredients to create new flavours. Our drinks are meant to be a wholesome experience,” he adds.

Little Bouquet by Lamp Bar | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Before stepping behind the bar, Michito worked as a cook and in construction. It took one evening—and one drink—for his career path to shift. “It was a Moscow Mule that made me consider bartending,” he recalls. “In Japan, classic cocktails are the most popular, and every bartender spends years perfecting the process. If you are ever in Japan, you should try classics like the whisky highball or gin fizz. Japan does classics best, and the garnishes are something to look forward to.”