A Brazilian restaurant with vibrant interiors, a new hotspot where vinyl records are in the limelight and a huge restaurant and bar that will transport you to old Las Vegas. Bengaluru has kicked off the summer with a slew of new restaurants and bars that have added to the city’s reputation as one of the F&B capitals of India. The city’s restaurant and bar scene is making a surprising post-pandemic comeback with restaurants ready to step out of their comfort zones. All you have to do is make plans for the weekend.
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boteco
If you visit one of the most happening F&B hotspots in Bengaluru, there’s a good chance you might meet Chef Guto Souza. It is their passion for their native Brazilian cuisine that was the catalyst for boteco which generally refers to great drinks and a place for easy conversation. Boteco captures the essence of Brazil’s watering holes with an emphasis on high quality and delicious food. The interiors come alive with lots of natural light and stunning murals that are good for ‘grams. Our favorites on the menu include the Bolinho de Appim (deep-fried cassava and cheese croquettes) and the Mega Meat Platter. But it’s the lemon mousse made with chef Guto’s mama’s special recipe that we can’t wait to see.
- Where: Magarth Road (opposite Garuda Mall)
Bombay Borough
An oasis in the heart of Bengaluru’s CBD, this new restobar is housed in a spacious heritage bungalow. Bombay Borough epitomizes modern India through an explosion of ultra-local and regional flavours. A mango tree is at its heart and provides the perfect backdrop for the large outdoor seating area. The indoor section is a mix of artsy rooms with hand-painted ceramic wall plates and modern art adding to the bohemian vibe. Indian regional ingredients come to the fore in deliciously curated cocktails including our favorite – Memsaab’s Pink Gin. The food menu takes you to the culinary capitals of India with signature dishes like Kerala’s Kolhapuri Lamb Chops, Mishti Doi Praline Cheesecake and Toddy Shop Fish Curry.
- Where: Wood St, Ashok Nagar
Gatsby
There is something about this name that transports you to another time and place with classic cocktails and parties that seem to go on forever. The new Nightspot at Bannerghata is based on the ‘Gatsby’ branding with an immersive feel. With sections spread over 28,000 square feet, Gatsby aims to recreate the Vegas vibe of old. The music continues and the classic cocktails that are artfully presented add to the experience. The menu is varied with room for Pan Asian and Indian. But it’s their European signatures that keep guests coming back
- Where: Bannerghatta Main Road, Arekere
record room
Vinyls have made an unexpected global comeback with sales increasing by 30% over the years. India’s first craft beer and vinyl bar is riding on this resurgence and offers over 200 vinyl records across all genres and decades that cover everything from Led Zeppelin to Lady Gaga. The focus is on delving into the beauty of analog music even when you drink craft beer.
From two of the city’s favorite brands – Toit and Geist. There is much more than beer on offer; Choose from gin-cocktails to wine and artisanal coffee. The food menu features a range of international dishes with an Indian twist. For example, Biryani Crisp Balls consists of biryani rice mixed with Parmesan, which is deep fried with mint chutney – a play on arancino.
- Where: Magarth Road (opposite Garuda Mall)
inna taproom
Its name is derived from the Sumerian goddess of love and all good things. This brand new taproom aims to create an alternate universe with cabanas and palm trees, a stark contrast from the hustle and bustle of Bengaluru. From lagers to wit byers, the taproom keeps on pouring beers. But not only is Inna a place for beer nerds, their signature cocktails also hit the spot. Most regulars swear by the ‘Pretty Ugly’ which combines oleo saccharum, gin, lavender tonic and blue pee tea. The food menu presents classic Indian flavors with modern cooking techniques.
- Where: Akshayanagar, Bannerghatta Road, near Hulimavu Lake
Shashay Taproom + Kitchen
The massive 260-seat venue aims to recreate and celebrate the ‘Old Bangalore’ charm. Modern sensibilities meet nostalgic charm in a space, with an emphasis on greenery and colorful furnishings. Situated as the neighborhood tap room, Sashay has an in-house selection of 12 beers on tap and over 30 craft gins. The diverse food menu celebrates global cuisine with everything from sashimi to pizza in the mix. Truffle Edamame, Crystal Dumpling, Wasabi & Bocconi Taco and Peri Peri Crusted Chicken Wings are among their bestsellers
- Where: EPIP Zone, Brookfield
About Ashwin RajagopalanI am the proverbial slushie – a content architect, author, speaker, and cultural intelligence coach. School lunch boxes are usually just the beginning of our culinary explorations. That curiosity hasn’t waned. It has only gotten stronger as I have discovered culinary cultures, street food, and fine dining restaurants around the world. I have discovered cultures and destinations through cooking. I am equally fond of writing on consumer tech and travel.