If your Instagram feed is in need of an update, try #foodbrag at this roster of newcomers in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. From #MondayMotivation to #WeekendVibes, these will keep you covered.
Mumbai
It’s hard to keep track of all the new openings in Mumbai, so we give you our top picks.
Xico
One of the top dining addresses in the city, Kamala Mills in Lower Parel has a variety that can leave even the most street-wise in two minds. Adding to this mix is Mexican restaurant Xico, where Chef Scott Linquist (of Miami’s Coyo Taco) brings true flavours of the South American country. At this snazzy eatery with colourful murals and Aztec prints, have a Mexican fiesta with tequila-based cocktails, empanadas, tacos, and cazuelitas.
Officially opens on October 3; Rs 4,000 for two; 9A, Trade View Building, Kamala Mills Compound, Lower Parel, +91-22/24978910
Hemant Oberoi
Save Mumbai’s beloved chef’s eponymous restaurant for a very special occasion. This restaurant—decorated in the shades of red, gold, and black—has the best spots if you wish to stargaze. Chef Hemant Oberoi’s regulars from his Taj days (think Amitabh Bachchan and Sachin Tendulkar) have come to sample nostalgia with his brie and truffle soufflé (a version of this was a winner at Zodiac Grill), but he also plates up European, Peruvian, and Asian dishes.
Rs 4,000 for two; Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East; +91-22/2653-4757
Delhi
There is always room for more in the capital.
The Bar Cat
This bar in South Ex has taken throwback too far—to the 20s! A two-floor jazz club with a rooftop terrace, The Bar Cat refers to the era in the States when alcohol was banned and jazz was in full swing. Take a seat by the window and watch live gigs, jazz performances, and stand-up comedy—this place is perfect for dinner dates in the city, especially its rooftop.
Rs 2,000 for two; E17, Third Floor, Block E, South Extention II; +91-11/4984-1617
Local
If you’re expecting United Coffee House-style refined dining, Local is not for you. This bar has a desi vibe with its chowmein and chaat and drinks at wholesale prices that’s more appropriate for ‘let’s paint the town red’ parties. A huge space done up in browns, the bar salutes the city in a fun way—notice the tables with Delhi location marked, vintage photographs and sketches on the wall, and local codes in the menu. In its name, as well as in the menu, English and Hindi are mixed that brings to mind the vernacular Hinglish we are so familiar with.
Rs 1,500 for two people; Ground Floor, Showroom 11, Atmaram Mansion, Scindia House, Connaught Place; +91/959-955-3145
Chennai
We bet you didn’t know these new restaurants were taking Chennai by the storm.
Sitcom – The Drama Diner
Chennai is catching up to the fandom bug that has bit Delhi. Sitcom, you’ve guessed it, takes inspiration from the telly—The Big Bang Theory and Friends are its heroes. Come here for breakfast with your group of diehard fans and crack up reading all the famous lines on the walls (Phoebe’s he’s her lobster is still a tickler). There isn’t anything in the menu that refers to the theme of the café, but their Continental and Pan-Asia dishes, especially milkshakes and desserts, stand out on their own.
Rs 1,000 for two; 145, East Coast Road, Neelangarai, Chennai; +91/893-992-1111
Also Read About Italian Resturants In Chennai
No Strings Attached
It’s all about noodles at this restaurant that serves noodle-filled rolls and samosas, pizza topped with noodles, and noodles tossed in paneer makhani gravy. A small menu that has made very big waves, No Strings Attached (don’t you love the pun?) offers a cosy space to have comfort food that won’t send on guilt trips—they don’t use artificial flavours or MSG.
Rs 200 for two; No 101, Dr MuthuLakshmi Salai, Adyar; +91-44/4852-7478
Bengaluru
The IT city has its game mode on. Where do you want to play?
XU
This weekend, wear your chicest little black dress and sexy dancing heels and head to the Old Airport Road, where XU Fashion Bar Kitchen has made its entry at The Leela Palace. The nightclub offers everything you’d expect: live DJs every week, snazzy ambience, and an expansive bar menu.
Rs 1,500 for two people; 3, Old Airport Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Kodihalli; +91-80/4512-8714
Shaken & Stirred
An old school pub with colonial touches, Shaken & Stirred has just opened its door on Race Course Road a few days ago. The menu is a mix of North Indian and Indo-Chinese to pizzas and bar bites, and regular live screenings of sports events are planned for regulars. The pub is running inaugural discounts till October 10: All walk-ins get 20 per cent off.
Rs 1,500 for two people; 33, 5th Main, Sheshadri Road, Near Ananda Rao Circle, Race Course Road; +91-80/4631-5555
Also Read:
Our Story On Best Pubs, Bars & Clubs In India
Best Restaurants In Bangalore
This story is a part of the POPxo Fashion digital magazine. To read the other stories in our October issue, click here to download it.
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