Why have just one, when you can spread joy all across the country? We take a look at some of India’s biggest and most successful bar chains of 2016.
THE BAR STOCK EXCHANGE
Bar score
6, in Mumbai and Pune
USP
Cheap booze, kickass food menu and spacious outlets — the best option for large groups.
What we like to drink
Whatever is the cheapest — TBSE is the place to go when your wallet’s light, but you still want a good time.
What we like to munch on
Misal Pav Fondue, Butter Chicken Risotto, Afghani Jalapeno Chicken Tikka, Sri Lankan Meen Curry and Brownie Stack Up.
Date or Boy’s Night
Works for both, actually, but you’ll enjoy TBSE with a bigger crowd.
SOCIAL
Bar score
15, in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru.
USP
A funky vibe, innovative cocktails and nofrills finger food — the perfect mix for a night out.
What we like to drink
Mick Jaggery, Thai Maalish, The Lantern and the Toxic.
What we like to munch on
Achmed’s Mezze Platter, Honey Chilli Fries, Kerala Parathas and the Andhra Mutton Biryani.
Date or Boy’s Night
Definitely meant for a guy’s night out, unless your lady is one of the guys too.
HOPPIPOLA
Bar score
11, in Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru. USP For the young, wild and reckless — ask college-going PYTs where they hang out on weekends, and most of them will squeal “Hoppi!”
What we like to drink
IQ, Rush Hour and Long Island Ice Freeze.
What we like to munch on
Patpong Chicken Satay, Korean Wings and the Kosha Mangsho Bao.
Date or Boy’s Night
On weekdays, this makes for a funky date night if you want to feel young at heart. Weekends are packed with party animals.
IRISH HOUSE
Bar score
12, in Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru.
USP
Young adults and busy professionals, this is your Mecca.
What we like to drink
Jack Sparrow, Whistleblower and the Inverted Bird.
What we like to munch on
The Beer Fondue, Headless Chicken Platter and the Sloppy Pig Out Burger.
Date or Boy’s Night
Need a place for a crazy bachelor’s party? Or maybe pregame? You can do anything here, but we would definitely suggest this one for a date.
MONKEY BAR
Bar score
4, in Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru.
USP
For those who have figured out how to adult (and adult well), Monkey Bar is the place to be.
What we like to drink
Mangaa, Copper Monkey and the fabulous Toast to Kolkata.
What we like to munch on
Baked Brie, Chettinad Samosas, Tiger Beef and Mobar Caramelised Ribs.
Date or Boy’s Night:
Date night central. Your partner shall be wooed well.
