Hanoi

Get a taste of Vietnam in Bangalore. Now that you can’t fly to Hanoi yet, just hop on behind your wheels and head to Hanoi for the best of Vietnamese cuisine.

Who would not love a meal that consists of fresh ingredients, is healthy, and not only looks great but tastes fantastic? Bangalore’s foodies now have one more fabulous option for authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hanoi, Indiranagar!

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its specific characteristics: harmonious, diverse, low in fat, and flavour with a combination of many kinds of spices to subtly enhance the taste of the dish. Thanks to Vietnam’s tropical climate, its long coastline and huge mountain ranges, the country is blessed with a multitude of choices for its varied cuisine. The cuisine offers a combination of the ngũ vi (the five basic taste elements), with flavours that represent one or more of the elements. The main ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine are rice and its derivatives, fish sauce, seafood, meats and vegetables. These are delicately balanced with the Vietnamese touch of lemongrass, ginger, mint, Saigon cinnamon, bird’s eye chilli, and the like, to produce a delectable harmony of flavours and spices.

Food: At Hanoi, one can indulge in traditional Vietnamese dishes such as Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls, Bahn Ram (dumplings), Bahn Pho and Jasmine Rice. Also try their innovative set menus. It also includes a unique Vietnamese coffee and dessert selection.

The team behind: The young director, Nirav Rajani along with Chief Chef Vu Thi Ngoc Diep (who has worked at the popular Lon Dinh restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam) have devised a delectable menu to bring the best of Vietnam to Bangalore. Chief Chef and partner, Vu Thi Ngoc Diep, a Vietnamese herself says, “Hanoi is not merely a dining experience, it’s the gateway to a new world.”

Where: Hanoi- #607, Level 1, Trifecta, HAL 2nd Stage, Indiranagar, Bangalore. Call: 080 41405599/9108801480.

– By Namita Gupta.

K-OS The Game Bar

xperience the joy of social play at K-OS The GameBar, the first bar featuring social darts in India. Take a break from the everyday drudgery as you battle with your gang and make memories over fun, laughter, some cool action and of course some great grub too.

Ambience: The GameBar boasts of 10 dart lanes, an outdoor area with a collection of entertaining party games, and a specially curated food and drinks lineup which allows you to continue enjoying your game uninterrupted. K-OS organises social dart tournaments, karaoke sessions and other activities to break the ice and make sure your team leaves excited and re-energised.

Food and drinks: The drinks and food menu is exhaustive. Some of the specials include Cilantro Cream Nachos, Chicken 2 way Pizza, Grilled Vegetable Pesto Pizza, Minced Chicken Mini Sliders, Mushroom Arancini, Crispy Crumbed Fish Fingers, Thai Fish Cakes, Lemon Garlic Prawns, Tandoori Broccoli, Peri Peri Chicken, Pesto Fish Tikka, Grilled Breast of Chicken. For dessert do try the Pecan Pie and the Dark Chocolate Mousse.

The team behind: K-OS Theory, was founded by four friends: Arun Devadas, Aditi Rao, Nithin Jaganathan and Anirudh Vijayaraghavan, who have known each other for over a decade having been classmates and workmates. They have been passionately following developments in social gaming, having experienced concepts in 40+ countries. The team first tested the idea with a small kiosk in a mall and 100,000+ dart throws later, K-OS The GameBar in Koramangala, Bangalore was launched in 2021.

Call: 9972104540
Where: K-OS The GameBar, 80 Ft Rd, Koramangala. Same building as Fenny’s/Starbucks, Bangalore.

– By Namita Gupta

Gawky Goose Kitchen & Bar

Ambience: As you enter the property, you step into an outdoor seating space lined with aromatic ferns and pines that features exposed brickwork with a transparent glazed ceiling, canopied by dense raintrees and a waterfall fountain is just about perfect for a day out. The restobar is pet friendly so you can also take your four-legged friends along. The emerald green and brass embellished bar is massive to say the least and is flanked on either side by intricately detailed brass and emerald green columns.

The feel of the space spread over a sprawling 14,000 sq. ft is further enhanced by a typical English and European setup with plush seaters, natural wooden tables and a pop of yellow with strategically positioned chesterfields and wing backs that are placed upon a curated combination of pattern and cement tile flooring. The interior seating area is physically separated from the outdoor spaces by a channel of glazed partitions that maintains a continuous visual connect between the two. A unique roof defines the outdoor deck with planters running along the edge which further adds to the tropical theme that is well encapsulated by all the elements of the pub.

Food: The menu is a great mix of world cuisine with regional influences prepared using modern techniques. Start off with Creamy Wild Mushroom Cappuccino or the silky and smooth Clay over smoked Pumpkin soup. The salad options vary from the classic Caesar Salad with a twist of Parmesan and Bacon Foam, BLT (Bacon, Tomato, Lettuce) chopped Salad with spicy Pomegranate Jello and more. There are filling, well-executed bar bites ranging from Mexican Madhur Vade, Lamb Keema Aloo Bonda Rassa, Ghee Roast Stuffed Paddu, Tandoor Jerk Chicken Stuffed doughnuts, Waffle Idli served with Srilankan Pepper Curry, Mouth-watering Gawky Wings platter.
Innovations of the menu don’t stop there as for mains you can choose from a variety of dishes such as the Laal Maans Shepherd’s Pie, Aloo gobi Au gratin with focaccia, Mutton Kheema Fondue, Puttu Curry, Naga Pork Masala served with Jasmine rice, South Indian Lamb Chops with Pongal, Chimichurri Tiger Prawns, the sumptuous pork belly udon noodles with soft boiled eggs and the list goes on. Don’t forget to save room for their Chocolate Decadent Mousse or the Peanut Butter Tart for the perfect finish to your meal.

Drinks: Try some long-gone classic cocktails with a regional twist and modern techniques. The menu also showcases some molecular cocktails. Some of the signature cocktails include – Gazpacho Bloody Mary (Absolut Vodka, gazpacho cold soup, red chili powder, topped with cucumber and chili foam), Balan – The Crazy Tiger (Rum fat washed in coconut water, smoked pineapple juice, inhouse jaggery syrup), MexiCano (Camino Silver Tequila, chilli, lime, salt rim, orange liqueur & papaya popsicle), GG & T’s and more. The bar also boasts of the classic tiki drink – Mai Thai, Manhattan, the traditional Sidecar, Mark Pickford and more. This restobar is the perfect spot to grab a latte with your fur babies, an intimate meal, or even a wild night out with the gang, ultimately making it a melting pot for professionals and locals alike. Go take a gander, the goose doesn’t bite!

The team: Dr. Kiran Kumar, Director, KG Hospitality, Gautam, Rohit Barker.
Where: #77, Wind Tunnel Rd, Muniyappa Layout, Murgesh Pallya, Bengaluru.
Call: 09901787273.

– By Namita Gupta

The Pet People Cafe

Pet lovers seem to be on the rise everywhere and to cater to these pet paw-rents is this plant-forward cafe with a guilt-free, cruelty-free and vegan friendly menu curated by Master Chef Abhijit Saha. With three decades of national and international experience in the hospitality industry, the chef-preneur who has also won many awards is a true master of culinary arts and the recipes here are all his creations. Some of the best practices at The Pet People Café include farm to fork, use of hyper local, hydroponic and organic ingredients, non-usage of single-use plastics and zero waste food service operations. Your pets can also enjoy some wonderful treats from the special pet menu making it a truly pet friendly experience. The Café shares its space with ‘Paws & Collars’ which is a premium high-quality pet retail store, veterinary clinic and pet grooming spa.

Food and drinks: Step in and you’ll get a feel of New York, a city that wakes up to its Bagel and coffee. Inspired by New York, this well thought of and delicately crafted menu has delicacies made with hand-picked, fresh ingredients. Their Arabica coffee beans are sourced from a coffee estate 3200 ft above sea level on the Western Ghats in Chikmagalur which is ideal for the best coffee. The aromatic and flavourful, freshly dark roasted coffee will linger on your tastebuds for a long time! Their All-day breakfast section offers smoothie bowls with fresh flavours. Their vegan-friendly bakery uses ancient grains to provide you with eggless and dairy-free wonders. The products, packaging as well as cutlery are all eco-friendly and sustainable. The menu comprises mostly of plant forward clean food, that is grown without usage of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. An extensive use of superfood and nutrient rich ingredients (traditional and new age) such as Hemp hearts, Hemp protein powder, Avocado, Almond Mylk Oat Mylk, Nuts, Seeds (Flax, Sunflower and Chia), Berries (Cranberry & Blueberry), Hydroponic & Organic produce (Leafy greens, Vegetables, Fruits, Coffee beans, Cacao nibs), Plant based cheeses, Plant based mock meats, Tempeh, Healthy grains (Farro, Brown Rice, Quinoa (grown in India) Millets and Sugar/ Honey substitutes (Dates, Date syrup, Coconut nectar and Jaggery powder). For a transparent and complete dining experience, there’s an open kitchen, where you can interact with your chef and watch him while he dishes up your orders.

The Cafe features some of the most iconic dishes that has made New York one of the gastronomy capitals of the world, including Smoothie Bowls, Bagels, New York Style Flat Bread Pizzas, American Pancakes, Paninis, Burgers and an exciting selection of Bakery and Desserts including Cranberry Cinnamon Rolls and New York Cheesecake to name a few. These have either been brought to the city by various immigrant communities or have been developed in the city over the years. The menu is divided into All Day Breakfast, Small Plates, Large Plates, Desserts and Beverages. Superfood Smoothie Bowl; Avocado Delight Smoothie Bowl; Bagels Stuffed with Plant Based Cream Cheese, Jalapeno & Olives, Variations of Avocado on Sourdough Toast; Fluffy Banana & Blueberry Pancake; Almond Mylk Pancake; Sweet Potato Gnocchi Charred Broccoli; Plant Based Mock Meat Chicken Nuggets; Crispy Tempeh Tacos; Kale & Chickpea Salad; Plant Based Fresh Mozzarella Cherry Tomato & Arugula Salad; Mushroom & Truffle Oil Flatbread Pizza; Asparagus, Almond & Olive Flatbread Pizza, Panini Pugliese with Grilled Vegetables & Spiced Red Pesto; Pasta & Gluten Free Quinoa Pasta with a variety of Sauces & Toppings; Arborio & Farro Risotto with Mixed Mushrooms, Mee Goreng with Tempeh & Vegetables; Korean Style Vegetable Bibimbap, New York Style Blueberry Cheesecake; Chocolate Marquise Jars; Sugar Free Pina Colada Chia Seed Pudding with Almond, Dates & Cranberries; and Premium Vegan Gelatos are some of the most exciting dishes in the food menu.

The highlight of the Beverage menu is the selection of Hot and Cold Coffees and Affogatos made with Amidst Mist 100% Arabica, Organic Coffee. Other offerings include, Teas, Iced Teas, Seasonal Fresh Juices, Shakes and Dairy Free Shakes using Almond & Oat Mylk, Artisanal Craft Kombucha, Non-Alcoholic Ginger Beer and Mocktails fresh juices, fruits and herbs.

Ambience: Abundant greenery, an exotic view of wall mural and galleria, a world map and a warm and tastefully done dining space with one wall flaunting proud pet photographs framed beautifully, completes the artistic experience of the place. It is partitioned from the retail, the veterinary clinic and the grooming spa on the inner section.

The team: Ambika Ramachandran is a true pet lover besides being is a senior technology leader with diverse experience across banking, telecommunication & manufacturing domains. Prior to founding Paws & Collars, she was portfolio management executive in Merrill Edge for Bank of America. Ambika has over 14 years corporate experience in companies such as Accenture, NTT Data and Bank of America and is passionate about technology driven seamless consumer experiences.

Santhosh Pasupuleti is a Humanitarian, Animal rights activist is a Technology Executive, with diverse experience across multiple industries solving wide variety of challenges to help businesses grow into thriving organizations. In the past, Santhosh worked with Ralph Lauren and Morgan Stanley Investment Bank in New York as Executive Director heading digital engineering. Santhosh is passionate about creating lifestyle experiences for pets and pet parents.

Abhijit Saha is a Hospitality and F&B Consultant, Restauranteur, Oenophile, Author and Celebrity Chef. He is the Founder & Managing Director of Ace Hospitality & Consulting Pvt Ltd. and has three decades of national and international experience in the Food Service and Hospitality Industry. He has many awards to his credit and has also authored ‘The Caperberry Cookbook’. Chef Saha is a believer and practitioner of ‘Sustainable Dining’ and is deeply committed to his philanthropic work with Akshaya Patra Foundation.

Where: Paws & Collars, Shree Arcade, 19th Main Road, Sector 4 HSR Layout, Bengaluru.
Call: 7975604575.

– By Namita Gupta

Bringing Goa to Bangalore

On one of their random trips to Mumbai, Bangalore-based restaurateurs, Sumanth Mutt, Sriharsha Putta and Deepak Karupakala fell in love with the place and food at this hotspot and decided to bring it to Bengaluru. Soon after, 1BHK – Bar House Kitchen, a popular Mumbai restaurant, opened its doors in Bengaluru. It retains its original Old Goan home vibe with a cool Bengaluru touch. The swanky eatery has multiple rooms and corners, each with an air that resonates with everyone, leaving you relaxed and comfortable.

Interiors: There are cosy corners, outdoor balconies, private seating areas under the glasshouse or within the house. Inspired by Portugal, Goan and French elements, the café is a housed in a bungalow surrounded by greenery galore. The focal point of the design is the glass house that was created in the centre to leverage the natural beauty all around. Lush bamboos, creepers, palms and bougainvillea create the perfect ‘jungalow’ atmosphere. The multi-faceted design caters to a variety of needs with dedicated spaces for the private dining room, library rooms, a boutique store, a live performance area and an alfresco dining space that is set in the open terrace with the seating overlooking the glass house. Fairy lights make the outdoor dining area snug, cheerful and totally welcoming. The diverse décor elements include arched windows, vintage grills, retro switches, halogen bulbs strung together on a rope, handmade tiles and generous pops of yellow are just some of the décor elements that add to the colonial charm of the space. The royal blue chandelier and handi lanterns manage to add an element of drama and is a highlight of the glass house. White mul curtains make this space homely and comfortable.

The furniture is customised and handcrafted in teak which is mixed with cane and rattan accents. All the accessories and artefacts have been handpicked from Mumbai and include vintage photo frames and antique mirrors. Extensive use of wood in the form of racks and shelves in the bar as well as the library add to the warmth and lend the space loads of character. The open wood fire oven, spiral staircase with a rickety look and feel, leather bound books and lace curtains will take you on a nostalgic trip. Handwritten blackboard displays, vintage radio sets and traditional window grills accentuate the old-world charm.

Food: It offers a wholesome experience with just the right kind of coastal vibes in terms of ambience, food and drinks. The menu combines a unique blend of Parsi, Goan and modern cuisine, along with some traditional dishes from across India to cater to the frequent travellers, keeping in mind their diverse palates. Some of the signature dishes include the Melon Ricotta Salad, Buddha Bowl, Hara Bhara Kebabs, Lebanese Platter, Prawns Chill Pill, Rajasthani Murgh Burrah Kebabs, Ghee Roast Mutton with Poi, Healthy Grilled Chicken, Bunny Chow Butter Paneer, Burmese Khow Suey, Saffron Milk Cake and Sea Salt Chocolate Caramel Tart.

Drinks: 1BHK hosts live music on some days of the week, encouraging young talent every week such as singing, orchestra, painting, poetry and storytelling, where they serve a full bar menu, including creative inhouse cocktails and sangrias.

The team: The restaurant is the brainchild of three Mumbai based Television actors – Simple Kaul, Addite Malik and Vatsala, a member of the Colors creative team.

Where: #56, Raj villa, 5th cross, 60 Feet Rd, 6th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru.

– By Namita Gupta

Pick Your Dish

The NGHT MRKT draws its inspiration from markets across the globe. With a wide variety of dishes and signature cocktails that can be paired with various cuisines, it is a great place for every food lover.

Ambience: From bright neon signs on the walls to quirky street side karts, stepping into NGHT MRKT gives a feeling of walking into a bustling market where everything one needs is right around the corner. And just like one would do in a night market, you can walk around and pick the food of your choice from any of the food stalls. Leisurely and relaxed atmosphere with the freedom of pairing dishes of one’s choice.

Food: Give in to your cravings from a wide range of options, ranging from pan-Asian to Continental and classic Indian dishes all the way from North to the South of India. As expected, there’s a wide range of drinks and dishes to choose from. Some of the must try dishes include Sushi Tacos, Crispy Korean Chicken, Kimchi fried rice, Nasi Goreng, Thai Red Curry with jasmine rice, Creamy and cheesy pasta and Detroit Pizza. For dessert try their Churros and Alcoholic ice creams. You will also love their Cosmopolitan. Also, do try their Classic MRKT Mary and NGHT MRKT Roberta, a gin cocktail.

The team: Co-founder Rithvik Varun says, “We wanted it to be a fun place with different menus. At the restaurant, you can bring in family, elderly people and kids and on the other side, it’s more of a younger crowd where the music is loud and drinks are served. NGHT MRKT has different cuisines for every age group and taste. We have a rotating menu as well and it changes every month like Indian, Lebanese, Mexican, Italian and more, so we have the flexibility to switch our cuisines.”

Where: No.9, Oyster Building 3rd Floor, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai.

Wallet factor: Meal for two Rs: 1,800.

Call: 044-35592952.