I don’t know about you, but I’ve often found myself in that all-too-familiar Indiranagar situation.
One friend craving coffee, another demanding “proper food,” and someone (fine, me) who just wants a well-made cocktail because life’s too short for plain soda.
Usually, this ends with us hopping from a café to a restaurant to a bar, each of us growing hangrier and more dramatic by the minute.
So imagine my delight when I discovered Circa 11.
A place that looked me square in the eyes and said, “Why choose?”
Perched on the ever-buzzing 12th Main Road, Circa 11 is not your average Bengaluru hangout.
It’s part café, part restaurant, part cocktail bar, and entirely brilliant.
Whether you’re that early bird chasing the perfect flat white, the lunch-hour warrior in need of comfort food that doesn’t come in a cardboard box, or the night owl whose idea of therapy is served in a coupe glass, Circa 11’s got you covered.
Circa 11 isn’t just where you eat and drink — it’s where Bengaluru’s energy meets elegance, one cocktail at a time.
Walking in, I couldn’t help but grin. The vibe is effortlessly cool.
Minimalist, moody, and classy without being intimidating.
Think monochrome greys, distressed mirrors, and just the right amount of greenery to make your Instagram reel look “aesthetic” without trying too hard.
There’s a quiet hum of conversation, the clink of glasses, and the faint aroma of something delicious caramelizing in the kitchen.
And then there’s the bar. Right in the center, glowing softly like it knows it’s the main character.
You can tell this place takes its cocktails seriously.
None of those sugary, overly garnished drinks that look better than they taste. No, this bar means business, the kind where every sip has a story and possibly a plot twist.
Here’s the fun part, though.
Circa 11 wasn’t born out of a business plan or a brainstorming session in a co-working space.
Nope. It began with a craving.
Chef Pradyumna “Prad” Harithsa wanted coffee, his wife Sudhiksha wanted food, and his childhood buddy Ankit Agarwal wanted cocktails.
One night, they realized there wasn’t a single place in the city that could do all three well.
So, like any Bangalorean dreamers with good taste (and a dash of madness), they decided to create one.
And thus, Circa 11 was born – a shapeshifting, all-day dining space that flows effortlessly from morning brew to cocktail o’clock.
Now, if you’re thinking, “Ah, just another Indiranagar café-bar hybrid,” stop right there.
Circa 11 is different. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t scream for attention but somehow becomes the center of it anyway.
It’s where Bengaluru’s charm, laid-back, creative, and a little cheeky, meets serious culinary and mixology craftsmanship.
By the time I finished my first visit, I realized Circa 11 isn’t just another new spot in town.
It’s a whole mood. The kind of mood where time slows down, conversation flows easy, and you leave wondering why your life doesn’t look like this more often.
Quick Information: Circa 11, Indiranagar
(Because we both know you’re already Googling the location while pretending to read this)
| Category | Details |
| Location | 957, 12th Main Rd, Indiranagar, Bengaluru 560038 |
| Ambience | Minimalist, monochrome, and quietly stylish |
| Cuisine | Global, ingredient-driven |
| Cost for Two | ₹2,500–₹3,000 (depending on how adventurous your cocktail choices are 😏) |
| Timings | Coffee: 9 AM–7 PM Lunch: 12 PM–4 PM Dinner: 6 PM–11 PM Breakfast: Sat–Sun, 8:30 AM–12 PM Wine & Cocktails: 12 PM–12 AM |
| Contact | 80955 11011 |
| @circa11.blr (You’ll want to check out their drool-worthy feed) |
First Impressions: When I Walked into Circa 11
(Source: Circa 11 Instagram & Google)
The first thing that hits you when you step into Circa 11 isn’t the music or the chatter.
It’s the mood.
There’s this quiet confidence about the place. It doesn’t scream for your attention. It just knows it’s got that something special.
The entrance, framed by warm lights and sleek glass, opens up to a space that feels instantly comfortable.
Not too bright, not too dim, just the kind of lighting that flatters your skin tone and your Instagram feed.
The décor walks that fine line between industrial chic and cozy café, and absolutely nails it.
Think: concrete walls softened by natural wood tones, metal accents that gleam without being flashy, and an earthy colour palette that feels like it was curated by someone who knows what “understated luxury” actually means.
And then there’s the layout, cleverly divided into zones that match your mood.
There’s the corner where freelancers tap away on laptops with their third cappuccino, the high tables perfect for those who want to catch up over cocktails, and the slightly elevated dining section where couples pretend to share dessert.
But the star of the show?
The bar – a glowing island of temptation right at the centre. You can’t miss it.
It’s beautifully designed, stocked with just the right kind of bottles that whisper “good decisions pending.”
The bartenders move like artists. Calm, deliberate, with that effortless confidence of people who know exactly what they’re doing.
As I took it all in, I couldn’t help but smile. There’s a certain magic to Circa 11.
You walk in expecting another trendy Indiranagar spot, and instead, you find a space that feels… complete.
Whether you’re there for a quiet coffee, a hearty lunch, or an indulgent evening that ends with you saying, “One more round?”.
Circa 11 somehow fits the mood perfectly.
This isn’t just another café-bar hybrid. It’s a vibe.
It’s what happens when aesthetic meets authenticity.
And in that first moment, I knew this place had something different brewing.
And I’m not just talking about coffee.
The Story Behind Circa 11: A Happy Accident (With Excellent Taste)
(Source: Circa 11 Instagram & Google)
Here’s where it gets interesting.
Circa 11 wasn’t born from some fancy investor pitch deck or a marketing brainstorm. Nope.
It started the way most great Bengaluru ideas do. Over food, friends, and a little frustration.
Chef Pradyumna “Prad” Harithsa, yes, the same Prad who’s spent years perfecting flavour combinations, just wanted a really good cup of coffee one evening.
His wife, Sudhiksha, was craving a proper meal (the kind that doesn’t involve “small plates”), while his best friend Ankit Agarwal was in the mood for a cocktail that didn’t taste like cough syrup with garnish.
Three people. Three cravings. Zero places that could satisfy all at once.
And that’s when the lightbulb went off.
What if there was a place that did justice to all three — a café that didn’t compromise on food, a restaurant that respected coffee, and a bar that knew its mixology like poetry?
Of course, most people would’ve just laughed and moved on. But not this trio.
With Prad’s culinary mastery, Sudhiksha’s sense of hospitality, and Ankit’s passion for craft cocktails, they decided to actually build the place they couldn’t find.
And that’s how Circa 11 came to life. Not out of ambition, but out of appetite.
What I love most about their story is that it’s so Bangalore.
It’s about friends coming together to fill a gap in the city’s soul, a gap you didn’t even realize existed until someone fixed it.
Today, Circa 11 stands as a beautiful blend of intention and instinct.
It’s not about ticking boxes. It’s about creating moments.
You can feel that energy in every detail, from the way the coffee’s brewed to how the cocktails are plated (yes, plated. Presentation matters here).
And if you ever meet Prad, Ankit, or Sudhiksha, you’ll see it immediately.
That spark of pride that says, “We built this because we wanted to hang out here too.”
That’s the charm of Circa 11. It’s not just a business.
It’s a passion project that somehow became everyone’s new favourite hangout.
Fun fact: The number 11 isn’t random. It’s Prad’s birth date, the day he met his wife, and the date he launched the Circa 11 cloud kitchen during the pandemic. Some people see 11:11 and make a wish. Prad saw it and made a business plan.
The Food: Technique Meets Taste (and a Bit of Sass)
(Source: Circa 11 Instagram & Google)
Here’s the thing about Circa 11. It’s not trying too hard. It’s confidently cool.
The menu changes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but what ties it all together is a focus on ingredients and technique.
The Stars of the Show
- Truffle Bhel – Desi chaat, but make it gourmet.
- Stuffed Chicken Wings – Deboned and drenched in house-made hot sauce (they’ve got 25 sauces on rotation, FYI).
- Beetroot Salad – Beets marinated, dehydrated, rehydrated, and oven-finished. I don’t know what sorcery that is, but it works.
- Seafood Ceviche – A delicate dance of mirin, honey, and miso.
- Lamb Tostada – The crowd-favorite that replaced their ambitious “corn everything” tostada.
Most of their produce comes from local farms. Zucchini blossoms from near the city, purple potatoes from Chikmagalur, and herbs from their very own kitchen garden.
Oh, and dessert?
Their Tiramisu pays homage to Prad’s Iyengar roots. The mascarpone is piped through a chakuli maker. Yes, you read that right.
I nearly ordered a second just out of sheer respect. 🙂
The Drinks: Where Mixology Meets Bengaluru’s Quirk
(Source: Circa 11 Instagram & Google)
Let’s be honest. Bengaluru’s bar scene is competitive.
But Circa 11’s cocktails aren’t just drinks. They’re storytelling in a glass.
Each cocktail pays cheeky homage to Namma Bengaluru.
- Bellandur Foam – A playful nod to our city’s infamous frothing lake. Made with limoncello, mango syrup, and pickled raw mango foam.
- Last Night on 12th Main – Toasted rice bourbon and sesame tincture. Let’s just say, you will want this to be your last drink on 12th Main.
- Error 080 – Raspberry fermented for five days. Tastes like a coding bug you actually enjoy.
- Yes Chef – Savory, spicy, and slightly chaotic — like every kitchen ever.
Mixologist Anurag Karki, the man behind the bar, whips up everything from scratch. Syrups, bitters, tinctures.
If Hogwarts had a bar program, he’d be teaching there. 😉
The Vibe: One Space, Many Moods
(Source: Circa 11 Instagram & Google)
Circa 11 evolves like a Bangalore day.
- Breakfast (weekends only) is cheery and comforting – shakshuka, okonomiyaki, Thai omelettes, and the showstopper Ginger Jaggery Brew inspired by Coorg’s chukke kaapi.
- Lunch is unfussy comfort food – handmade pastas, mussels pil-pil, and Asian kale salad.
- Dinner is where things get classy – low lights, high flavors, and a touch of magic.
By night, the vibe turns moody and intimate.
You’ll see couples, creatives, and the occasional table of friends debating whether the Bellandur Foam was an act of irony or genius. 🙂
Contact Details: Because You’ll Want to Bookmark This Spot
(Source: Circa 11 Instagram & Google)
If you’re already drooling (I don’t blame you), here’s how to find your way to this shapeshifting café-meets-bar that’s redefining Indiranagar’s food scene.
Address:
Circa 11, 957, 12th Main Road,
Indiranagar, Bengaluru – 560038
Phone: +91 80955 11011
Timings:
- ☕ Coffee: 9 AM – 7 PM (Every day)
- 🍴 Lunch: 12 PM – 4 PM (Every day)
- 🍸 Dinner: 6 PM – 11 PM (Every day)
- 🥐 Breakfast: 8:30 AM – 12 PM (Saturday & Sunday)
- 🍷 Wine & Cocktails: 12 PM – 12 AM (Everyday)
Cost for Two: Approx. ₹2,500 – ₹3,000
Social Media:
Follow them for drool-worthy reels, quirky drink stories, and a peek behind the bar magic: Instagram – @circa11.blr.
FAQs About Circa 11: Because You’re Definitely Thinking These Too
Where exactly is Circa 11 located?
Circa 11 is right in the heart of Indiranagar, on the ever-buzzing 12th Main Road — you know, the stretch where every second building is either a café or a bar, but only a few actually get both right. You can’t miss the minimalist signage and that soft, inviting glow spilling out in the evenings.
What’s the vibe like?
Think easy-going meets effortlessly stylish. Circa 11 has that perfect balance — laid-back enough for a casual brunch, yet sophisticated enough for date night. The playlist is a smooth mix of indie and chill house (thankfully, not ear-shattering), and the crowd is the classic Indiranagar blend — freelancers by day, foodies and cocktail lovers by night.
What’s on the menu?
A little bit of everything, done really well. You’ll find all-day breakfast, global comfort food, gourmet coffee, and signature cocktails that easily compete with the best bars in town. Whether you’re into small bites or full meals, vegan bowls or meaty mains, Circa 11 nails both quality and presentation.
Do they serve alcohol all day?
Oh yes. Circa 11 transitions beautifully from caffeine to cocktails. You can start your day with a cappuccino and end it with a Negroni — and no one will judge you (in fact, you might get a nod of approval).
Is it a good place for meetings or work?
During the day, absolutely. The place is laptop-friendly till late afternoon, with strong Wi-Fi and plenty of power sockets. By evening though, the lights dim, the music picks up, and it’s time to swap your latte for a martini.
Do you need a reservation?
If you’re planning to drop by on a Friday evening or weekend night, a reservation is a smart move — this place fills up fast once the sun sets. On weekdays or for brunch, walk-ins are usually fine.
What about parking?
It’s Indiranagar, so yes — parking can test your patience. They’ve got limited parking, but finding a spot on the nearby lanes usually works if you don’t mind a short stroll. (Pro tip: just book a cab and thank yourself later.)
Do they have vegetarian and vegan options?
Definitely. The menu is inclusive and creative. You’ll find enough vegetarian and vegan options that don’t feel like an afterthought. Their grain bowls, flatbreads, and salads deserve special mention.
Can I bring my pet?
Unfortunately, it’s not a pet café. While they love animals, Circa 11 is more of a dine-in, coffee-and-cocktails space than a pet-friendly courtyard setup. But hey, maybe that’ll change someday — here’s hoping!
What are their timings?
Circa 11 opens early for your caffeine fix and stays alive till late — typically from 8 AM to 11:30 PM (give or take a bit depending on the day). Morning energy, evening buzz — they’ve got both covered.
Why the name “Circa 11”?
Good question — and one I actually asked them! The name is inspired by the idea of “around eleven,” that magical time of day when anything feels possible. It could be brunch time, coffee time, or cocktail hour depending on your mood. In short — Circa 11 is that sweet spot between morning and night where everything just clicks.
My Final Thoughts: Circa 11 Is Bangalore in a Glass
Circa 11 isn’t just another restaurant. It’s an experience.
It’s that rare space where your caffeine addiction, your foodie instincts, and your cocktail curiosity can peacefully coexist.
Chef Prad and team have created something special.
Thoughtful, technique-driven food, cocktails with character, and a vibe that transitions with your mood.
Whether you’re there for a solo coffee, a business lunch, or that “just one drink” night that never ends, Circa 11 delivers every time.
So, the next time you find yourself on 12th Main, Indiranagar, follow your nose, or your thirst. Chances are, both will lead you to Circa 11.
Have You Been to Circa 11 Yet?
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