A Brazilian restaurant with lively interiors, a new hotspot where vinyl records are in the spotlight and a massive restaurant and bar that will transport you to the Las Vegas of old. Bengaluru has started the summer on a high note with a slew of new restaurants and bars that have added to the city's reputation as one of India's F&B capitals. The city's restaurant and bar scene is making a stunning post-pandemic comeback with restaurateurs who are ready to step out of their comfort zones. All you have to do is make those weekend plans.
Also Read: From Madurai to Chennai: 3 Delicious Parottas From South India You Must Try
Boteco
There's a good chance you might run into Chef Guto Souza if you visit one of Bengaluru's most happening F&B hotspots. It's his passion for his native Brazilian cuisine that was the catalyst for Boteco which generally refers to a place for great drinks and easy conversation. Boteco captures the essence of a Brazilian watering hole with an emphasis on high-quality and delicious food. The interiors are vibrant with plenty of natural light and stunning murals that are good for the 'gram'. Our favourites in the menu include the Bolinho De Aipim (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 go back for.
- Where: Magrath Road (Opposite Garuda Mall)
Bombay Borough
An oasis in the heart of Bengaluru's CBD, this new restobar is housed in a sprawling heritage bungalow. Bombay Borough epitomises modern India through an explosion of hyper-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 artistic rooms that add to the Bohemian vibe with hand-painted ceramic wall plates and modern art. Indian regional ingredients come to the fore in the tastefully curated cocktails that includes our favourite - Memsaab's Pink Gin. The food menu takes you across India's culinary capitals with signatures like the Kolhapuri Lamb Chops, Mishti Doi Praline Cheesecake and Toddy Shop fish curry from Kerala.
- Where: Wood St, Ashok Nagar
Gatsby
There's something about this name that transports you to another time and place with classic cocktails and parties that went on forever. Bannerghata's new nightspot builds on the 'Gatsby' branding with an immersive experience. Spread over 28,000 sq. ft. with sections that open up to the sky, Gatsby aims to recreate the Vegas vibe of old. The music keeps up and the classic cocktails which are artistically presented, add to the experience. The menu is diverse with room for Pan Asian and Indian. But it's their European signatures that bring guests back
- Where: Bannerghatta Main Rd, Arekere
Record Room
Vinyls have made an unexpected global comeback with sales up by 30% over the last years. India's first craft beer and vinyl bar is riding on this resurgence and offers over 200 vinyl records across genres and decades that cover everything from Led Zeppelin to Lady Gaga. The focus is to delve into the beauty of analogue music even as you sip on craft beer.
From two of the city's favourite brands - Toit and Geist. There's more than beer on offer; choose from gin-cocktails to wines and artisanal coffee. The food menu features a line-up of international dishes with an Indian twist. For instance, the Biryani Crisp Balls pairs seasoned biryani rice with parmesan, deep-fried with a side of mint sauce - a play on Arancino.
- Where: Magrath Road (Opposite Garuda Mall)
Innanna Taproom
Takes its name from the Sumerian goddess of love and all things good. This brand new taproom aims to create an alternate universe with cabanas and palm trees, a sharp contrast from the Bengaluru hustle and bustle. From lagers to wit biers, the taproom keeps the beers coming. But Innanna is not just a spot for beer nerds, their signature cocktails hit the spot too. Most regulars swear by 'Pretty Ugly' which combines Oleo Saccharum, Gin, Lavender Tonic and Blue pea Tea. The food menu presents classic Indian flavours with modern cooking techniques.
- Where: Akshayanagar, Bannerghatta Road, Near Hulimavu Lake
Sashay Taproom + Kitchen
This massive 260-seater space aims to recreate and celebrate the 'Old Bangalore' charm. Modern sensibilities meet nostalgic charm in a space with an emphasis on greenery and colourful furnishings. Positioned as a neighbourhood tap room, Sashay has 12 beers on tap and an in-house selection of over 30 craft gins. The diverse food menu celebrates global cuisine with everything from sashimi to pizzas in the mix. The truffle edamame, crystal dumpling, wasabi and bocconcini taco and the peri peri crusted chicken wings are among their bestsellers
- Where: EPIP Zone, Brookefield
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.