Cooling Down in the City: Best Summer Dishes in Mumbai's Finest Restaurants

Cooling Down in the City: Best Summer Dishes in Mumbai's Finest Restaurants

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 9, 2024

As the temperatures soar in Mumbai, seeking refuge from the scorching heat becomes a priority. Fortunately, the city's culinary scene offers a plethora of options to cool down and tantalize your taste buds. From refreshing mango creations to tantalizing Italian delights, Mumbai's top restaurants have curated special menus to make your summer dining experience unforgettable. Let's explore some of the highlights from these culinary hotspots:

Neuma, Colaba:

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Nestled in the heart of Colaba, Neuma beckons diners with its array of seasonal flavors that capture the essence of summer. Immerse yourself in the tangy Aamras Jalapeno Gazpacho or savor the delightful combination of Mango Brie Sourdough. If you're craving something more substantial, the Grilled Habanero Chicken with Mango or the Mango Prawn Curry promises to satiate your appetite. And to round off your meal on a sweet note, don't miss out on the Mango Cream Cheese Pizza or the Mango Cilantro Chilly Cheesecake. With each bite, Neuma transports you to a culinary paradise where summer flavors reign supreme.

The Nines, Juhu:

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Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Juhu, The Nines invites patrons to escape the heat with its innovative cocktail menu that pays homage to the season. Quench your thirst with the Mango Picante, a tantalizing blend of fresh mango puree and fiery tequila, or opt for the Papaya Sunset, which offers a refreshing harmony of papaya and litchi syrups with whiskey undertones. As you sip on these delectable concoctions, you'll feel the summer heat dissipate, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Si Nonna's, Multiple Locations:

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For lovers of authentic Italian cuisine, Si Nonna's is a culinary haven not to be missed. With locations scattered across the city, this establishment caters to all dietary preferences with its diverse summer menu. Indulge in the Veg Special, where the vibrant flavors of tomato sauce, black olive pate, and fior di latte cheese come together in perfect harmony. Alternatively, opt for the Vegan Special, adorned with kalamata olives and pickled paprika, or savor the classic combination of tomato sauce and roasted chicken in the Meat Special. With its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional techniques, Si Nonna's promises an authentic Italian dining experience that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Italy.

Ditas, Lower Parel:

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With its European and Continental offerings, Ditas invites diners on a culinary journey that celebrates the abundance of summer produce. From refreshing salads bursting with seasonal flavors to hearty mains that evoke the essence of a leisurely picnic, every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. Indulge in the MELON FETA ARUGULA salad, where yubari melon and berries are paired with tangy feta and jalapenos, or sample the TEX MEX NACHOS, a crowd-pleaser featuring pica di Gallo, beans sofrito, and cheese fondue. For those with a sweet tooth, the MANGO MERVEILLEUX offers a delightful fusion of mango mousse and passion fruit pate, topped with mango ice-cream for a refreshing finish.

Blue Bop Cafe, Khar:

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Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Khar, Blue Bop Cafe offers a taste of the tropics with its vibrant summer menu. Mango takes center stage across their offerings, from the refreshing Mango Salad to the indulgent Mango Tres Leches. For a hearty meal, dive into the Mango Burrito Bowls or sample the Raw Mango Fish Curry for a tangy twist on a classic dish. With its laid-back ambiance and creative culinary offerings, Blue Bop Cafe is the perfect spot to unwind and beat the summer heat.

Sante Spa, BKC:

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Promoting healthy and sustainable dining, Sante Spa Cuisine in BKC offers a guilt-free indulgence with its summer menu. Sip on a refreshing Mango Colada or sample the Spicy Mango Nigiri Dynamite for a flavor-packed experience. For a light and zesty salad option, the Thai Spiced Mango Salad is a must-try, while the Mango Chia Fool provides a satisfyingly sweet ending to your meal. With its commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavors, Sante Spa Cuisine invites diners to embrace a healthier approach to dining without compromising on taste or satisfaction.

Amazonia, BKC:

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Transporting diners to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Amazonia in BKC offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. With its captivating ambiance and innovative summer menu, this chic restaurant promises a culinary journey like no other. Indulge in the Amazonia Mango Ensalada or savor the Avocado on Toast for a burst of flavor with every bite. For those with a sweet tooth, the Pistachio Tres Leches is a decadent treat not to be missed. With its commitment to quality and creativity, Amazonia invites diners to embark on a delicious escape where every dish tells a story of summer abundance.

Bayroute, Multiple Locations:

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Celebrate the season's star fruit at Bayroute's Mango Festival, where each dish is a tribute to the sweetness of mangoes. From refreshing beverages like the Kaccha Mango Kooler to indulgent desserts like the Mango Baklava Cheesecake, every offering showcases the versatility of this beloved fruit. With its commitment to excellence and passion for culinary innovation, Bayroute invites diners to immerse themselves in a world of mango magic and savor the flavors of summer.

This summer, let your taste buds guide you on a culinary adventure through Mumbai's finest restaurants, where every bite is a celebration of the season's bounty. Whether you're in the mood for Italian, Middle Eastern, or Continental cuisine, these culinary hotspots promise an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you refreshed, revitalized, and craving more.


Top Spots to Catch the IPL Action in Bangalore This Season

Top Spots to Catch the IPL Action in Bangalore This Season

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 27, 2025

Cricket season is here—and so is the hunt for the perfect spot to catch all the IPL action in Bangalore. Whether you’re a die-hard fan chasing every boundary or just soaking in the vibes with brews and friends, the city has lined up some fantastic venues to turn match nights into full-blown experiences. From rooftop views to stadium-like energy and irresistible bar offers, here’s where you can catch every thrilling moment this April-May.

Ouzo by Fire — Drinks Specials & Big Screen Action

Located on 100 Ft Road, Ouzo by Fire brings cricket spirit alive with a tempting Buy 2, Get 1 Free on alcoholic beverages during all IPL matches. Pair it with bold Goan-Mangalorean flavours, a lively bar setting, and big screens, and you’ve got a perfect match-night hangout.

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Highlights:

  • Buy 2, Get 1 Free on alcoholic drinks
  • Live match screenings
  • Goan Bar & Grill vibes
  • Ouzo by Fire, 100 Ft Road, Indiranagar | April-May | 7:00 PM onwards

2Moons — Cricket with a View

Perched atop 1MG Mall, 2Moons offers an elegant escape from the typical cricket crowd. Expect skyline views, a globally-inspired menu, handcrafted cocktails, and a warm, luxe atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for couples or small groups looking to turn match night into a mood.

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Highlights:

  • Rooftop city views
  • Curated global cuisine
  • Signature cocktails & premium pours
  • Warm, luxe ambiance
  • 2Moons, 1MG Mall, Bangalore | April-May | 7:00 PM onwards

Maize and Malt — Big Screens, Bold Brews

For those who love high-energy cricket nights, Maize and Malt in Whitefield delivers with house-crafted beers, hearty pub food, and multiple big screens. Known for its stadium-like energy, it’s a great spot whether you're arriving solo or with your full squad.

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Highlights:

  • Large-format IPL screenings
  • House-brewed beers on tap
  • Hearty pub fare & game-day offers
  • Stadium-like energy 
  • Maize and Malt, Whitefield | April-May | 7:00 PM onwards

Whether you’re chasing rooftop sunsets, craft brews, or electrifying cricket vibes, these Bangalore hotspots promise to deliver the perfect IPL fix. Bookmark your favourites, rally your crew, and let the good times and sixes roll!


Proost Rises as a Challenger Brand Redefining India’s Beer Scene

Proost Rises as a Challenger Brand Redefining India’s Beer Scene

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 16, 2025

Proost is the premium beer brand of Grano69 Beverages, a company dedicated to transforming the Indian Alcobev industry. Founded in October 2017 and headquartered in Gurugram, the company went live with its commercial operations in September 2018. The company's vision is to disrupt the Indian beer market as it combines premium quality with affordability and offers beers known for low bitterness, high drinkability, and excellent taste.

The story of Proost is one of great ambition and determination. It entered the highly-regulated Indian Alcobev sector and encountered significant challenges, as the absence of a unified liquor policy meant adhering to state-specific excise regulations. However, Grano69 overcame the challenges with a step-by-step approach, and established itself as a resilient, innovative player in the industry. From selling just 4,000 cases in its first year of operations, Proost has grown to sell over 3,000 cases daily. Its acceptance and demand are shown in its high sales figures.

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The idea behind this brand was born out of a need in the market-to provide a premium quality beer that would taste fresh but not at the cost of affordability. "We Brew Passion" is the tagline Proost believes in to materialize that vision. Proost has translated this promise into beers that align with the changing consumption patterns in India, and therefore, it has evolved a different beer experience for the masses.

The major difference between Proost and its contemporaries is its dedication to freshness and quality consistency. The brand offers a unique taste with each draught and unmatched drinkability. Striving for quality and innovation has enabled it to carve out a place in a market where the big fish have played for a long time.

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Proost’s success story is also a testament to its founders’ grit. CEO and Co-Founder Tarun Bhargava, alongside Vijay P. Sharma, entered the highly regulated alcobev sector and navigated complex state-wise excise norms with strategic persistence. A finance graduate from the University of Delhi, Tarun previously worked with companies like Aon and IBM before venturing into entrepreneurship. His earlier stint with a hyperlocal startup gave him valuable exposure, which he now channels into running Proost with a pragmatic, practice-first approach. 

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Proost started from scratch but has risen exponentially. Its annual revenue has been increased from ₹77 lakhs in FY 2017-18 to a current monthly recurring revenue of ₹10+ crore. It’s also on track to close the year with a top-line revenue exceeding ₹100 crore. It is an indication of the strength of the brand penetration and consumer loyalty. This growth has been supported by cumulative funding of ₹50 crore so far - raised across three rounds, including ₹30 crore as part of the ongoing Series A round.

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Proost currently operates in six key markets, which include Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Jharkhand, and Kerala. The company looks at expansion into three more markets over the coming year. Its operations are managed by 90+ professionals who propel the brand's success. With per capita beer consumption in India being lower than the global average, Proost has enormous opportunities for growth in the country. Growing disposable incomes, a younger population, and changing consumer preferences – all factors, together, create a rich ground for the brand's expansion plans.

As beer consumption continues to rise in India due to shifting social norms and increasing disposable incomes, Proost is positioning itself to take advantage of this growth wave. The brand’s ambition is clear — to be among the top five beer brands in India by the end of this decade.

The journey of Proost epitomizes the resilience and innovation necessary to make a mark in a challenging industry. As the brand continually intensifies its presence and explores new markets, it has remained true to its promise of fresh, high-quality beer that celebrates life. Proost is not just bringing quality and freshness to beer; it is transforming the way India experiences beer.


Bhagat Halwai Launches Mithai Refill Discount to Promote Sustainability

Bhagat Halwai Launches Mithai Refill Discount to Promote Sustainability

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 11, 2025

In a thoughtful move towards sustainability, Bhagat Halwai, one of Agra’s oldest and most cherished sweet shops, has introduced an innovative refill discount offer for customers who bring their own clean containers. This initiative aims to reduce packaging waste while rewarding eco-conscious behavior.

The new offer allows customers to refill their favorite sweets directly into their containers and enjoy exclusive discounts, blending the age-old tradition of mithai with a fresh, environment-friendly twist.

“This is more than just a discount—it’s a small yet meaningful step toward protecting our environment,” said Shri Shivam Bhagat, Director, Bhagat Halwai. “With this refill initiative, we’re offering not just mithai, but a way for our customers to make a responsible choice for the planet.”

Echoing the sentiment, Ms. Riddhi Bhagat, Strategic Director, added, “As a brand built on legacy and trust, we want to lead by example in sustainable practices. This is just the beginning of many green efforts we plan to introduce, and we’re excited to have our customers join us on this journey.”

With this initiative, Bhagat Halwai is setting a strong example of how traditional businesses can contribute to a greener future. So the next time you crave something sweet, just carry your container, fill up on deliciousness, and do your part for the environment—one mithai refill at a time.

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