Those who've been to the silicon capital of India, would agree without a doubt that Bengaluru offers a wonderful climate with balmy weather. It's one city where you can enjoy al-fresco dining experiences almost round the year (with the exception of a couple of months) and make the most of the pleasant evenings. Whether you're looking for a romantic rendezvous or planning to chill with your co-workers after a frenetic day at work, you will be spoilt for choice.
Here is a list of 7 of the best al-fresco restaurants in Bengaluru where you can chill with family and friends:
Tiamo, Conrad Bengaluru
It's no surprise that Conrad's open to sky F&B outlet is called Tiamo - it translates to 'I love you' in Italian. This is easily one of the city's most romantic dining venues. It may not be a rooftop restaurant but is located on the edge of the Infinity pool with uncluttered views of the Ulsoor Lake. Tiamo rounds up popular Mediterranean Bistro Classics that complement some of Conrad's most creative cocktails.
Where: Kensington Road, Halasuru
Layla, The Den Bengaluru:
This 'dinner only' rooftop restaurant and bar is a charming destination and the newest addition to the Den, a design-driven luxury hotel from Israel. You can choose from the al-fresco section with 360-degree views of the city or opt for one of the cosy booths indoors that are a throwback to a different era. Chef Roy Soffe, the chain's consultant chef has crafted a menu that rounds up dishes from across the Middle East and the Mediterranean region. The dim lighting presents the perfect contrast to the hustle and Whitefield traffic.
Where: ITPB Main Rd, KIADB Export Promotion Industrial Area, Whitefield
Kaze:
Translates to wind from Japanese; a fitting name for one of the city's highest rooftop bars and restaurants with panoramic views of the city. Kaze's al-fresco section is particularly popular at dinner during the weekend but the indoor seating section with its art deco elements is not a bad back up plan. The menu is dominated by pan-Asian signatures, everything from exquisite sashimi and sushi platters to rice and curries from across South East Asia are in the mix.
Where: SKAV 909, Lavelle Road
(Also Read: Benne Dosa: Bengaluru's Favourite Dosa Dipped in Butter)
Rim Naam, The Oberoi
Rim Naam has remained one of India's finest Thai restaurants for a while now with signature dishes - like the stir-fried soft shell crab and the Som Tham (raw papaya salad) that have stood the test of time. But it's the setting - an al-fresco dining venue in a wooden pavilion that creates an illusion of being afloat on a water body, which makes it one of the city's most enchanting dining venues.
Where: MG Road
Olive Beach
A tiny slice of the Mediterranean retreat in the heart of 'Old Bangalore' with a distinct lunch and dinner experience. There's a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor seating but it's the open courtyard and Olive Beach's dedicated al-fresco bar area that usually fill up first. Their timeless signatures include the Brie En Croute - Brie cheese baked, wrapped in a puff pastry and served with caramelised onion and orange marmalade, The Harissa prawn and the 8-hour lamb.
Where: Wood Street, Ashok Nagar
(Also Read: Six Amazing Italian Restaurants To Try When You Are In Bengaluru)
Sunnys
It has been one of the flagbearers of European and International cuisine in the city from the 1990s, a time when the phrase 'foodie' was hardly ever used. Set in a bungalow in the heart of Bengaluru's CBD, this pet-friendly restaurant has developed a cult following for its elegant al-fresco setting and signature dishes - like their smoked salmon roll with cream cheese, thin-crust pizzas and decadent desserts that have stayed consistent.
Where: Lavelle Road
Royal Afghan, ITC Windsor
Royal Afghan is one of Bengaluru's favourite outdoor dining venues since the 1980s. The compact menu hasn't changed here since then too, sticking to ITC Hotels' template of North West Frontier cuisine that has worked in iconic restaurants like Bukhara and Peshawari. From their signature dal to succulent kababs and curries and time-tested dishes like the Peshawari naan and sikandri raan, most regulars know this menu by heart. The pool-side setting makes this an intimate dinner venue.
Where: Golf Course Road
So the next time you plan your travel in and around Bengaluru, head to the above-listed places and make the most of your trip.
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About Ashwin RajagopalanI am the proverbial slashie - a content architect, writer, speaker and cultural intelligence coach. School lunch boxes are usually the beginning of our culinary discoveries.That curiosity hasn’t waned. It’s only got stronger as I’ve explored culinary cultures, street food and fine dining restaurants across the world. I’ve discovered cultures and destinations through culinary motifs. I am equally passionate about writing on consumer tech and travel.