As the weekend approaches, the most pressing question around where one should eat and how it should be spent looms large. And that’s exactly why we thought of introducing MW’s weekly roundup, Out And About, comprising the best menus, eateries, and events — laced with food and drinks — to make your life easier.
India’s ever-evolving and incessantly buzzing F&B space has a number of new places offering myriad experiences. From a vinyl and craft beer bar in Bengaluru to underrated idli joint in Pune, these new spots give you much to explore, no matter which corner of the country you reside in.
If You’re In Mumbai
Take a trip down Grand Trunk Road
Tucked away in the business hub of Mumbai’s BKC area, Taftoon offers an exploration of authentic recipes from all the regions along the Grand Trunk Road, recreated for the modern diner. From beverages like The Grand Trunk Road cocktail and Narangi Kadi Patta to appetizers like Palak Bhalla and Fish Kobiraji, everything on their menu urges you to introspect about Indian food, and then, reimagine it. With monochromatic and uncluttered interiors and humble service, this place is definitely worth your time.
Where: Unit 2, C-31 – 32, G Block, Naman Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex.
Call: +912249735748
Cost: Rs 2,500 (for two)
Rise And Shine At AntiSocial
This Sunday, AntiSocial is the place to be at as Soundrise rings in a morning gig, featuring Bombay Beats, for all you early risers. The community/platform provides upcoming artistes with an opportunity to showcase their talent, and has curated this particular event around street music styles with artists such as The Dharavi Dream Project and Major C in tow.
Where: AntiSOCIAL, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel
When: Sunday, August 28, 11 am to 12:30 pm
If You’re In Pune
Try Killer Idli-Curry Combos
Helmed by chef Abhishek Joshi and his partner, Chirag Jadhav, We Idliwale brings food from the streets of South India to Pune. The quaint eatery offers showstopper idlis and other South Indian meals atop traditional steel crockery. That, and a handwritten menu on a blackboard, along with soft jazz playing on the speakers, help add character to this food joint.
Where: We Idliwale, Shop 4 Viman Platinum Ganpati Mandir Road, Viman Nagar.
Call: 9307536165
Cost: Rs 400 (for one)
If You’re In Bengaluru
Brew It Up At This Vinyl Bar
The Record Room, Bengaluru’s new-ish vinyl and craft beer bar is a space where you can pore over crates of old records and sip on a cold brew, all under one roof. The establishment, which is home to over 200 vinyl records across genres and decades, also serves beers from Geist and Toit (two of Bangalore’s best brew makers) on tap. Head over for a fun lunch or dinner, where music and munchies reign supreme.
Where: 16/3, Commissariat Road, Richmond Town, MG Road.
Call: +918792107222
Cost: Rs 2,250 (for two)
If You’re In Kolkata
Win Goodies From Le 15
Le 15 is hosting a pop-up on 3rd September at the Daily Café owned by Urvika Kanoi, which will include a book signing with Pooja Dhingra for her cookbooks, Coming Home and Can’t Believe It’s Eggless, followed by a demonstration of recipes from Coming Home. Additionally, they will be stocking up on hot chocolate, macarons, and other signature desserts from the patisserie. You can also win goodies from Le 15 by participating in their contest for which details are available on their Instagram.
If You’re In Delhi
Taste Mumbai At The Bombay Club
Founded by Amanda Bhandari, Bombay Club is a minimal, quaint cafe in Delhi that strongly reflects Bombay’s energy with its vintage photographs, antique yet classy pieces, and cane furniture. The eatery serves cuisines that pay homage to the city’s diverse culinary cultures, including Anglo-Indian, Goan, Parsi cuisine, and more.
Where: 36, Dhanmill Compound, Chhatarpur.
Call: +918527785684
Cost: Rs 1,400 (for two)
If You’re In Goa
Unwind At This Portuguese Cottage
Bate-Papo is a home, cafe, and shop run by chef Rohit Cruz and his partner, Baneen Karachiwala. The pet-friendly, cozy space offers hearty meals made with fresh ingredients along with homemade liqueur. This is a perfect spot for anyone looking to spend the afternoon with comfort food and great conversations.
Where: 3/121, Mudda, Gumal Vaddo, Saligao.
Call: 9243434318